Motorcycle Accidents in Texas: What You Need to Know
Motorcycles can be a great way to get around town. Although these impressive machines can be fun to ride to work or cruise around seeing the sights, motorcycle accidents can be incredibly hazardous for riders. Motorcyclists have less protection, which may lead to devestating injuries.
It is possible to safely ride a motorcycle, but motorcyclists and other drivers need to be cautious and watch out for each other while on the road. Keep reading to learn more about motorcycle accidents and tips for sharing the road from an Edinburg motorcycle accident attorney.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
While motorcyclists’ recklessness or carelessness can be the cause of some accidents, many crashes are the result of uncontrollable situations, like another driver’s actions or engine trouble. Review the list below for some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
Speed – Speeding on motorcycles is incredibly dangerous, and cutting corners and weaving in and out of traffic may cause a serious accident.
Inexperience – Texas requires all motorcyclists to complete a class to get a motorcycle license, but inexperience with road conditions or the bike itself can still cause accidents.
Alcohol – Driving under the influence is another common cause of crashes, both for motorcyclists and other drivers.
Mechanical Problems – The motorcycle may have problems with the engine, brakes, or tires that could cause an accident.
Weather – Bikes’ tires often don’t get great traction on slick, wet, or sticky roads resulting from snow, rain, or extreme heat, each of which can cause accidents.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accident victims are usually ejected from their bikes, and many of these types of accidents result in life-threatening injuries. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, a biker may only experience minor injuries, but many bikers will have injuries that affect them for the rest of their life.
Road rash
Cuts
Broken ribs
Whiplash
Fractures
Loss of limbs
Spinal cord injuries
Compensation for Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accident victims may qualify for compensation for the injuries they have suffered. Compensation is broken down into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover financial costs, and non-economic damages cover non-monetary losses.
Economic Damages
Rental car fees
Reduced earning power
Medical bills
Disability
Funeral fees
Motorcycle repairs
Non-Economic Damages
Mental anguish
Lowered quality of life
Loss of a loved one
Physical suffering
Emotional stress
6 Tips for Motorcyclists on the Road
Bikers need to do their part to stay safe on the road. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe while riding your motorcycle.
Always wear a helmet
Wear appropriate gear
Check the weather
Inspect your bike
Follow traffic rules
Watch for road hazards
6 Tips for Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists
Bikers are not always to blame for accidents — other drivers on the road need to do their part. Follow these tips to learn how you can share the road with bikers.
Keep your distance
Check blind spots
Take care when passing
Obey traffic laws
Stay in your lane
Use turn signals early
Bobby Garcia Can Fight for Your Motorcycle Case
Hopping on a motorcycle and feeling the wind in your face can be a lot of fun, but motorcycle accidents are dangerous and could cause serious injuries. After an accident, you may be eligible for compensation for the injuries and emotional stress you have suffered. An experienced Edinburg motorcycle accident attorney at the Law Office of Bobby Garcia can help you fight for compensation and get justice.