Spring is right around the corner, and for Houston motorcycle enthusiasts, it’s the beginning of rally season. Group rides, poker runs, and other events happen throughout Southeast Texas. Unfortunately, the traffic they create and the reckless behavior of other road users can put you at risk.
As temperatures warm up and bikers hit the streets, The Stano Law Firm wants you to be aware of potential hazards. We explain common causes of motorcycle accidents in Houston, the potentially devastating injuries they cause, and how to protect your rights in a claim.
Reckless Drivers Increase Houston Motorcycle Accident Risks
Statistics from Texas’ Department of Transportation (TxDOT) show that close to 600 people are killed in motorcycle accidents throughout the state each year, while nearly 3,000 other victims suffer potentially devastating personal injuries.
Throughout the spring, motorcycle rallies, group riders, and other events draw bikers from throughout the state, but local traffic increases the risks on the road. Motorcycle accidents in Houston often happen due to reckless behavior on the part of other road users. This includes:
- Distracted driving, such as sending texts, talking on cell phones, or engaging in other activity that diverts attention;
- Speeding, which increases the risk of motorcycle crashes in Houston and the potential for fatal injuries;
- Failure to yield, a common type of aggressive driver behavior on local highways and interstates;
- Tailgating, common in traffic-congested areas;
- Driving while impaired, whether by alcohol, illegal drugs, or over-the-counter and prescribed medication.
Common Injuries Caused By Houston Motorcycle Accidents
Get medical attention immediately if you are involved in a Houston motorcycle crash. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) warns that with little to protect them, motorcyclists often suffer devastating injuries. These may include:
- Broken bones: Fractured arms, legs, ribs, or other body parts often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Road rash: Contact with rough road surfaces can cause severe abrasions, requiring skin grafts and resulting in permanent scarring.
- Head and brain injuries: Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are at high risk for concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.
- Internal injuries: Motorcycle crashes can cause internal injuries, which can go unnoticed at first but may prove life-threatening.
- Spinal cord injuries: Motorcycle crashes in Houston can cause devastating back and neck injuries, which may damage the spinal cord. This can result in permanent paralysis or other serious complications.
Motorcycle accidents in Houston often require extensive medical care and lengthy recovery times. When the reckless behavior of motorists is to blame, our experienced Houston motorcycle crashes attorney fights to get you compensation for your losses.
Protect Your Rights After a Houston Motorcycle Crash
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Houston this spring, there are several important steps you should take to protect your rights:
- Notify the police: Always report any motorcycle crash to the police and make sure a detailed report gets filed. This report will be an essential part of your case.
- Gather evidence: If able, take photos of the scene, your injuries, the other driver’s insurance information, and any road hazards that may have contributed to the crash. If your injuries prevent this, have others document what happened.
- Get medical treatment immediately: Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, get checked out by a doctor. Injuries like internal bleeding, concussions, and spinal cord damage might not show symptoms right away.
- Get legal help: Before speaking to an insurance company or accepting a settlement, talk with our experienced Houston motorcycle accident lawyer first.
Insurers often offer quick settlements to close cases, but these settlements rarely cover all your costs and could leave you paying out of pocket. As a former Texas prosecutor, our Houston motorcycle accident attorney is a fierce negotiator and will not hesitate to file a claim through the Harris County Civil Court to get the maximum amount you need to recover.
Contact Our Experienced Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer And Request A Consultation Today
Spring is a popular time of year for motorcyclists. However, increased traffic and the reckless behavior of motorists increase the risk of motorcycle accidents in Houston at this time of year.
If you or someone you love is hurt, get trusted legal help from The Stano Law Firm. Our legal team has decades of practical experience handling these cases and fights to get you the maximum amount in a claim. Call 832-777-0390 or contact our office online. Request a consultation today with our Houston motorcycle accident lawyer.