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WHY HIRE A MOTORCYCLE INJURY ATTORNEY?

Richard Ardoin
 May 1, 2015

The number of registered motorcycles in the state of Texas has doubled since the year 2000. That is a startling statistic, given that cyclists are 30 times more likely than automobile drivers to die in a traffic accident. Factor in Texas' year-long weather, and you can quickly see how dangerous the roads can be for those who travel them by motorbike.

COMMON CAUSES OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

Unfortunately, many people tend to assume that the motorcycle driver is likely at fault whenever they hear of an accident involving a bike and a car. While there are cases in which this is true, there are also many instances in which the car or truck driver was at fault. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

  • Other driver did not yield for a motorcyclist or did not give him or her sufficient space.

  • Other driver attempted to pass too close or enter the cyclist's lane.

  • Other driver failed to spot the motorcycle in mirrors.

  • Other driver was traveling too fast to stop before striking the motorcycle.

  • Cyclist was driving too fast or recklessly.

  • Biker tried to weave his or her way through traffic.

  • Biker or other driver was intoxicated.

  • The motorcycle or automobile had defective parts.

  • The weather was icy, windy or otherwise adverse.

Lack of proper training by the biker or lack of training by the other driver in regard to accommodating motorcycles can also contribute. If there is an accident, the motorcyclist normally bears the brunt of the injuries, as he or she does not have any surrounding protections. A lack of a helmet, leather clothing and other protective gear can make the results of these accidents even more severe than they already would have been.

COMMON MOTORCYCLE INJURIES

Besides actual loss of life, there are a number of other severe results that often follow from being involved in an accident while riding on a motorbike. The most notable among these are as follows:

  • Severe concussions and head trauma

  • Traumatic brain injury

  • Leg, arm, chest and pelvic fractures

  • Nervous system damage to the arm that affects its functionality, known as "biker's arm"

  • "Road rash," in which the skin is severely scarred and disfigured, often requiring plastic surgery

  • Major spinal cord injury

WHAT CAN A MOTORCYCLE INJURY ATTORNEY DO FOR YOU?

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is imperative you obtain all the legal help possible. Skilled attorneys who specialize in cases just like yours know how to ensure your rights are respected. Auto-accident law is a complex maze that only the well-initiated can successfully traverse, and your chances of getting a fair settlement are slim unless you have an experienced lawyer on your side.

If the other driver was at fault, you may need to press for a personal injury settlement. If the motorcycle manufacturer was at fault, you may need to pursue a defective parts suit. Tort laws in Texas and elsewhere include a statute of limitations, so you must not wait too long if you wish to be reimbursed for costly hospital bills, loss of work and pain and suffering. A good motorcycle injury attorney can greatly increase your chances in court.