Motorcycle Laws in Texas
Texas is a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts. Unfortunately, there are also many injury-causing motorcycle crashes reported each year in the state. Drivers understanding and adhering to the relevant traffic laws and regulations in place is crucial for both motorcyclists and other motorists to ensure the safety of everyone on the roads.
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. While there are key laws in Texas that protect motorcyclists and prevent accidents, drivers do not always comply and respect the safety of motorcyclists.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, always immediately consult with a reputable Austin motorcycle accident lawyer who can navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Drivers who violate safety laws and cause injuries should be liable for the resulting harm, and a Texas motorcycle accident attorney can ensure this happens to protect your future.
Texas Law Allows Motorcyclists to Safely Share the Road
In Texas, motorcycles have the same rights and responsibilities as any other vehicle on the road. However, due to their smaller size and vulnerability, all drivers need to follow the law and keep motorcyclists safe.
As a motorcyclist, you can take all necessary precautions and wear safety gear, but you can never control the actions of others. As safe and experienced as a rider you might be, accidents and injuries are still possible when other drivers violate safety laws.
Traffic Law Violations by Drivers that Cause Motorcycle Collisions in TX
Unfortunately, not all drivers on the road adhere to Texas traffic laws, which can lead to dangerous situations for motorcyclists. The following are common traffic law violations by drivers that often result in motorcycle collisions in Texas. By proving such violations, motorcycle accident lawyers can seek compensation for the losses accident victims endured.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major concern and a leading cause of accidents involving motorcycles. When drivers engage in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or even eating while driving, their attention is diverted from the road. This increases the risk of colliding with a motorcycle or failing to notice a motorcyclist’s presence.
Drunk Driving
Driving while intoxicated (DWI) by alcohol or drugs is a serious offense that puts everyone on the road at risk. Intoxicated drivers often have impaired judgment, reduced reaction times, and decreased awareness of their surroundings. This makes them more likely to cause accidents and pose a significant threat to motorcyclists.
Following Too Closely
Tailgating, or following another vehicle too closely, is a dangerous behavior that can lead to rear-end collisions. When a driver follows a motorcycle too closely, they leave insufficient time to react to sudden stops or changes in speed. This lack of space can result in a rear-end collision with the motorcycle, potentially causing severe injuries to the rider.
Speeding
Speeding is a common traffic violation that significantly increases the risk of accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to unexpected situations and are likelier to lose control of their vehicles. Speeding drivers may not have enough time or distance to avoid colliding with a motorcycle, resulting in catastrophic injuries for the motorcycle rider.
Improper Lane Changes
Failure to use turn signals or check blind spots before changing lanes is a common mistake drivers make. When drivers fail to see a motorcyclist in their blind spot or give them enough space, they may inadvertently cut off the motorcycle or collide with it during a lane change.
Failure to Yield
Failure to yield the right-of-way at intersections is a dangerous behavior that puts motorcyclists at risk. When drivers fail to yield to oncoming traffic, including motorcycles, they can cause T-bone collisions or other types of accidents that result in severe injuries or fatalities.
Running Red Lights
Running a red light is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. When drivers disregard traffic signals, they risk colliding with motorcycles that have the right-of-way. These accidents often occur at high speeds and can have devastating consequences for motorcyclists.
Many other violations can lead a driver to crash into a motorcyclist, causing serious and often life-changing injuries. If you suffered recent injuries, discuss your options with a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Why Texas Motorcycle Safety Laws are So Important
Motorcyclists in Texas
Texas is home to a thriving motorcycle culture, with a large number of registered motorcyclists. In fact, there are over 440,000 registered motorcycles in the Lone Star State, making it one of the states with the highest number of motorcyclists in the United States.
Texas is also known for its scenic routes and beautiful landscapes, making it an attractive destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Some popular places to ride motorcycles in Texas include the Three Sisters (also known as the Twisted Sisters), a series of winding roads in the Hill Country region. There are also stunning routes like the River Road, Paloma Loop, and the Big Bend National Park area. These routes offer breathtaking views and challenging twists and turns for motorcyclists to enjoy.
Further, many people ride motorcycles because of cost-efficiency and convenience. Riding is often cheaper in terms of fuel, parking, and more. In many areas of the country, motorcycle riding is limited to certain times of the year due to changing weather conditions. However, in many parts of Texas, motorcyclists can continue to enjoy the benefits of riding year-round.
With such a significant number of motorcyclists on the roads, drivers must understand the laws and regulations in place to ensure the safety of motorcyclists. These laws aim to protect both motorcyclists and other drivers, and all road users should always adhere to them.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Texas
When it comes to motorcycle accidents in Texas, the statistics are concerning. Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road, and it’s important to understand the extent of the problem to address it effectively. Let’s take a closer look at some key motorcycle accident statistics in Texas.
In a recent year, there were a total of 412 fatal motorcycle crashes in Texas, a four percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, there were 1,746 suspected serious injury crashes involving motorcycles. These numbers highlight the seriousness of motorcycle accidents and the need for increased awareness and safety measures.
While motorcycles only make up a small percentage of registered vehicles in Texas, they are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, motorcycles accounted for less than two percent of all registered vehicles but were involved in 12 percent of all traffic fatalities. This stark contrast emphasizes the need for improved safety measures and driver awareness specifically geared toward motorcycles.
When examining factors contributing to motorcycle accidents, many crashes involve other vehicles. Nearly half of all fatal motorcycle accidents in Texas involved a collision with another motor vehicle. This highlights the importance of motorists being attentive and aware of their surroundings, especially in the presence of motorcycles.
The statistics surrounding motorcycle accidents in Texas are a cause for concern. With an increase in fatal crashes and a disproportionate number of accidents involving motorcycles, other motorists must prioritize safety on the road. By understanding and addressing the factors contributing to these accidents, we can work towards making Texas roads safer for everyone.
If you have suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, never wait to seek medical attention and then consult with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights.
Serious Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection that motorcycles provide compared to other vehicles. If you have been in a motorcycle crash, seek legal help to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
One common serious injury that motorcyclists experience is traumatic brain injury (TBI). This occurs when a blow or jolt to the head causes damage to the brain. TBIs can have lasting effects on a victim’s cognitive function, memory, and sensory perception. Even a seemingly minor accident can result in traumatic brain injury, so everyone should seek medical attention after any motorcycle crash.
Another serious injury that can occur is spinal cord injury (SCI). The impact of a motorcycle crash can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete loss of mobility and sensation. Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. An attorney can handle the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation needed for your medical expenses, lost income, and future care.
Motorcycle accidents can also lead to severe bone fractures and internal organ damage. Broken bones can be extremely painful and may require surgeries, immobilization, and physical therapy for proper healing. Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you have injuries from a motorcycle crash, reach out to a skilled attorney who can provide you with the legal support and advocacy you need during this challenging time. Remember, you don’t have to face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone.
Why Insurance Companies Might Automatically Blame Motorcyclists for Accidents
Insurance companies sometimes have a bias against motorcyclists when processing motorcycle accident claims. This bias can lead to unjust blame falling on the motorcyclist, even when the other driver was at fault. There are a few reasons why insurance companies may automatically blame motorcyclists for accidents:
Bias against Motorcyclists
There is a long-standing bias against motorcyclists, with some people viewing them as reckless or inherently more prone to causing accidents. This bias can manifest in insurance claim investigations, where motorcyclists are often perceived as at fault before any evidence is considered.
Trying to Avoid Liability for the Crash
Insurance companies are profit-oriented businesses, and paying out claims can be costly. By automatically blaming the motorcyclist, insurance companies try to shift liability away from their insured driver to avoid financial responsibility. This strategy can leave innocent motorcyclists struggling to receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Handling Your Injury Claim
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Texas, always have an experienced motorcycle accident attorney by your side. Here are a few reasons why you need legal representation for your injury claim:
In-Depth Knowledge of Motorcycle Accident Laws
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney knows the specific laws and regulations that apply to motorcycle accidents in Texas. They can navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights throughout the claims process.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Building a strong case requires a thorough investigation and gathering of evidence. A motorcycle accident attorney will evaluate the accident scene, interview witnesses, obtain police reports, and collect any other vital evidence to support your claim. They will work diligently to establish liability and prove the extent of your injuries and damages.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they automatically blame the motorcyclist. A motorcycle accident attorney has the experience and negotiation skills to advocate for your rights and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. They will protect you from settlement offers that undervalue your claim and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Trial Representation, if Needed
If your case goes to trial, having a motorcycle accident attorney on your side is essential. They will represent you in court, present compelling arguments, and use their legal experience to seek a favorable outcome. You can rely on their guidance and support throughout the entire litigation process.
Ted R. Lorenz, Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Texas
Consult a Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Immediately
If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident in Texas, never wait to consult a knowledgeable and experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to gathering evidence and pursuing a claim.
Contact a personal injury law firm in Austin today to schedule a consultation and get the legal representation you need. A dedicated attorney will fight for your rights and work tirelessly to obtain the compensation you deserve.