September 2009: New Motorcycle Safety Law passed
What are the biggest causes of motorcycle crashes?
The majority of accidents involving collisions between a motorcycle and a car happen at intersections. Motorcycles can easily be in a driver's blind spot at intersections, and are often not seen. Drivers who neglect to check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or who do not allow sufficient braking distance when following a motorcycle cause many accidents as well. Accidents also occur when cars pull out in front of motorcyclists, especially at intersections or driveways.
Cyclists must be alert and carefully watch the movement of the vehicles near them. Wear bright clothing, honk your horn if a car begins to move into your path, and practice good defensive driving to avoid being in an accident.
Are helmets required in the state of Texas?
Texas law requires riders and drivers 20 years and younger to wear motorcycle helmets. Texas exempts riders 21 years or older from wearing a motorcycle helmet if they can either show proof of successfully completing a motorcycle operator training and safety course or can show proof of having a medical insurance policy. A policeman may not stop a motorcyclist without a helmet for the sole purpose of determining whether the person meets these requirements.
I was injured in a motorcycle accident that was not my fault. Does the law make it harder for me to receive compensation because I was on my motorcycle and not in a car?
No. Texas law gives motorcyclists the same right to seek compensation as other motorists who have been injured as a result of another person’s negligence. However, defense attorneys for insurance companies may suggest that you deserve less compensation for your injuries because of inherent risks associated with motorcycles.
Motorbike accidents can be catastrophic and the Wyly Law Firm understands that you deserve the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and the resulting expenses. That’s why our motorcycle accident lawyer has made it his job to understand the laws that govern motorcyclists and the dangers motorcyclists face on the road.
Will compensation cover my injuries caused by a motorcycle accident?
Yes. If you have been injured as the result of another party's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A court may award damages for any or all of the following: motorcycle repairs, pain and suffering, disability, present and future medical bills, and loss of current and future income.
Individuals involved in motorcycle accidents are at a high risk for broken bones and fractures, brain injury, road rash, spinal cord injury and death. The bills for those injuries can pile up quickly. For instance, even what appears to be minor leg and foot injuries can turn into thousands of dollars in medical bills.
The Wyly Law Firm understands the personal, emotional and financial consequences of motorcycle accidents. We are committed to advocating for motorcycle accident victims and to making sure that all of their legal rights are protected. Contact the Wyly Law Firm, P.C. by calling 713-574-7034 or by contacting us online if you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Houston, Harris County, Beaumont, Baytown, Galveston and Pasadena or anywhere else in Texas.
