Motorcyclists Are at a High Risk of Injury & Death
Motorcyclists are not protected like drivers and occupants of other motor vehicles. In 2021, the Texas Department of Transportation reported that 502 drivers and 20 passengers were killed in motorcycle accidents, and 2,320 more were seriously injured, and about half of all those people were wearing helmets. Even when wearing DOT-approved helmets and protective gear like boots, jackets, gloves, and pants, the risk of injury is extremely high. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to be killed in traffic accidents than occupants of passenger cars.
In a crash, a rider may experience such traumatic injuries as:
These injuries may be sustained even in minor or low-speed collisions. Some modern bikes are equipped with airbags and other features meant to protect riders in an accident, but there is only so much that can be done.
After a Motorcycle Crash: Protect Your Health & Legal Rights
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you can take a few steps to protect yourself:
- If the accident is blocking traffic or someone is seriously injured, call 911.
- If possible, stay at the scene. You are required by law to remain at the scene of any traffic accident that has caused property damage or injury to exchange information with the other driver(s). The only exception would be if you are severely injured and are taken to receive emergency care.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including your driver's license number, insurance information, name, and phone number.
- Gather information, if you can. This might include taking pictures of the scene and your bike with your cell phone, getting the contact information of witnesses, and more.
- Seek medical care as soon as you can. If you do not require emergency care, go to your local urgent care center, or see your doctor as soon as possible. You should always get checked out after a motorcycle accident, even if you feel you were not seriously injured. Some injuries may not be apparent right away because of adrenaline and shock. See a doctor as soon as you can.
- Do not admit fault or apologize to the other driver, to law enforcement, or even to your own insurance company. Statements like these can be seen as admissions that you caused the accident and could complicate your ability to recover a fair settlement.
- Talk to a Dallas motorcycle accident lawyer before you accept a settlement or sign anything that could reduce your chances of getting the complete compensation you need to rebuild your bike and your life. A lawyer who has experience with these cases can guide you to the best possible result.
Of course, every motorcycle accident is different, and you should do what you believe is best in the circumstances. Put safety first, ask your doctor if you have any medical questions, and ask your attorney for legal guidance.
Texas Helmet Laws for Motorcyclists
Texas law only mandates wearing helmets on a motorcycle if you're under the age of 21. As long as you're older than that, and if you have completed an approved training course or have met some other qualification, like carrying enough health insurance coverage, then you are not required to wear a helmet.
Recovering After a Dallas Motorcycle Accident
Trying to rebuild after a motorcycle crash can seem impossible. With a successful case against the party or parties that caused your accident, however, you have an opportunity to recover compensation that can pay for all of your treatment and offer financial support so your future is secure.
Compensation for a motorcycle accident claim may cover:
- Hospitalization and emergency care, doctor visits, and other medical appointments
- Rehabilitation, physical therapy, medical equipment, medication, and medical supplies
- Lost wages from missed work while you were injured and receiving treatment
- Loss of potential income if you can't work in the same field or can't work at all
- Property damage to your bike, your helmet, and your other gear
- Physical pain and suffering experienced during and after the accident
- Emotional trauma, such as loss of enjoyment of life, anxiety, or PTSD
- Diminished quality of life as a result of the accident and the injuries you experienced
- In rare cases, punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for gross negligence or wrongdoing
Compensation We've Recovered in Past Motorcycle Accident Cases
We can't guarantee any outcome for any client's unique case, but the following examples show what our experience, resources, and determination are able to achieve on our clients' behalf. We are committed to helping each of our client's get the results they need to move forward with their lives, and we can start discussing the options and possibilities for your specific case in a free, confidential consultation.
Our track record in motorcycle accident cases includes:
- $8.5 million recovered for a motorcyclist who suffered a broken arm and leg and needed surgeries in a crash that was caused by a car turning right in front of them
- $5.9 million recovered for Harris County motorcyclist who was seriously injured in an accident
- $4.5 million recovered for motorcyclist who sustained serious leg and hip injuries because a pickup truck driver made an unsafe turn
Check out our case results or contact us at (888) 493-1629 today to learn more!
About Dallas
With a population of more than 1.3 million people, 2 airports (Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport), the International Inland Port of Dallas, and 4 major interstate highways that converge in the city, Dallas is widely recognized as a transportation hub. You can get around using the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) or on your own using the many freeways that converge in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, such as the I-20, I-30, I-35E, and I-45. Dallas also has one of the biggest freeway interchanges in the country, the High Five Interchange.
Dallas is also a great spot for motorcycling enthusiasts, and local riders as well as those from across the U.S. come to the city to take on routes spanning the scenic countryside. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, motorcyclists can take the leisurely Lizard’s Tail on the west bank of Lake Worth, the North Dallas Twistys, or the Texas Turns, Turns & More Turns through farmland and ranches in North Texas.
Dallas Links & Resources
Our Dallas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Serve Injured Riders Nationwide
Our firm is committed to helping injured riders in Dallas, Fort Worth, and across the country. We’re known for taking on the biggest and most challenging cases against formidable opponents, and this serves us well in motorcycle accident cases. Whether it was the manufacturer of a bike part or a distracted or drunk driver that caused your accident, you’ll know that we have the resources to fully investigate and build a strong case on your behalf—no matter what curve balls the at-fault party or parties try to throw your way. We don’t give up, because we know how much it means to get the right medical treatment and a fair settlement or award.
Start working toward a better future. Call (888) 493-1629 today to speak with a member of our team about your Dallas motorcycle accident.
