Why Should I Get a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

While the other party may claim that motorcyclists are putting themselves at risk just by being on a motorcycle, this is not a valid defense against liability. An accident lawyer with us knows exactly what to look for in a motorcycle accident case so your side of the story is listened to and the liable party proven culpable. You need an attorney to sort out things such as liability disputes, claim denials by insurers, the role of any defective motorcycle part or equipment—or a blend of all three. These situations need to be recognized and skillfully resolved rapidly so you don’t get played by the insurance companies.

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What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas?

According to the Texas Department of Transportation and the NHTSA, approximately one in three motorcycle accidents results in injuries, and one in four results in a fatality. Serious brain injuries, broken bones, amputations, internal injuries, and deaths are all too common. The most common causes of motorcycle crashes due to the negligence of another driver are:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driving while intoxicated or impaired
  • Failure to properly check the blind spot for smaller vehicles such as a motorcycle
  • Failure to yield to a motorcyclist with right-of-way
  • Hitting a motorcycle from behind
  • Improper lane changes
  • Speeding and reckless driving

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries:

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection compared to other vehicles. Riders are especially vulnerable to severe trauma, which can lead to long-term medical complications and financial burdens. Common injuries include:

  • Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and skull fractures
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Paralysis, herniated discs, and nerve damage
  • Fractures and Broken Bones: Common in the legs, arms, ribs, and collarbones
  • Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions that can lead to infections and scarring
  • Internal Injuries: Damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, torn ligaments, and muscle damage
  • Amputations: Limb loss due to severe trauma or surgical necessity

If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, seeking legal guidance from Perdue & Kidd in Houston can be crucial for your recovery and compensation.

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Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident 

Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can protect your health, rights, and ability to seek compensation. Taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal case.

  1. Check for Injuries: Prioritize your safety and seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
  2. Move to Safety: If possible, get out of the roadway to avoid further harm.
  3. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance.
  4. Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance details from all parties involved.
  5. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident, vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
  6. Gather Witness Statements: If possible, get contact information and statements from witnesses.
  7. Seek Medical Care: Some injuries may not be readily apparent, so seek medical attention immediately after the accident.
  8. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident but avoid admitting fault.
  9. Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: The attorneys at Perdue & Kidd can help you protect your rights and seek fair compensation.

Perdue & Kidd Successfully Navigates Even the Most Complex Motorcycle Accident Cases

The dedicated team at Perdue & Kidd have over 100 years of combined experience in personal injury law which includes achieving meaningful outcomes for victims of motorcycle accidents. These cases can be complicated and the last thing you need is trying to deal with insurance companies that are more concerned with their bottom line than helping you put the pieces of your life back together. Our Houston firm’s founders, Jim Perdue, Jr. and Donald Kidd, have earned state and national recognition as leaders in personal injury law. We have built our reputation through expert knowledge and integrity in the correct application of the law. Our attorneys aren’t interested in churning out claims—we are about personal, quality representation for motorcycle accident victims. Having trouble with insurance companies? We’ll have them taking notice and ensure they do what’s right.

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What Evidence Can Help With My Motorcycle Accident Case? 

Strong evidence is crucial in proving fault and securing compensation after a motorcycle accident. The more documentation you gather, the stronger your case will be when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your claim in court.

Accident Scene Photos 

Images of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signals.

Police Report

Official documentation of the accident, including officer observations and citations.

Medical Records

Proof of injuries, treatments, and prognosis to support your claim.

Witness Statements

Testimonies from bystanders who saw the accident occur.

Dashcam or Surveillance Footage

Video evidence from nearby cameras that captured the crash.

Motorcycle Maintenance Records

Proof that your bike was in good working condition.

Cell Phone Records

May help determine if distracted driving was a factor.

Expert Testimony

Accident reconstruction specialists can provide insights into how the crash happened.

Gathering and preserving this evidence can make a significant difference in your case. Perdue & Kidd in Houston can help ensure you have the necessary documentation to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Can I Receive Compensation For?

Some accident victims may not realize the full extent of their own damages after a crash. While you may be focused on the immediate medical bills and the loss of property, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer makes sure full damages from the crash are accounted for—now and into the future such as:

  • Emergency Medical Costs
  • Continuing Treatment Bills
  • Physical Therapy
  • Punitive Damages in the Case of Reckless Driving
  • Lost Wages
  • Loss of Earning Potential
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Property Damage
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Tips for Avoiding a Motorcycle Accident 

Preventing a motorcycle accident starts with proactive safety measures and defensive riding. By staying alert and following best practices, you can reduce your risk of collisions and serious injuries.

  • Wear Proper Gear: A DOT-approved helmet, gloves, and protective clothing can minimize injuries.
  • Stay Visible: Use reflective gear, keep headlights on, and avoid riding in blind spots.
  • Follow Traffic Laws: Obey speed limits, signals, and lane markings to prevent accidents.
  • Ride Defensively: Assume other drivers don’t see you and be prepared for sudden movements.
  • Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road and avoid using mobile devices while riding.
  • Check Road Conditions: Be cautious of wet pavement, potholes, and debris that can cause loss of control.
  • Never Ride Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time and judgment.
  • Perform Regular Maintenance: Keep your brakes, tires, and lights in top condition for safe riding.

Let Us Do the Work So You Can Focus on Your Recovery

The first step towards a successful outcome to your case is meeting with a motorcycle accident lawyer in a one-on-one consultation. There is no cost for the consultation and we work on a contingency fee basis so you’ll never pay anything out-of-pocket if we take on your case. We know what you are going through after a crash so we are passionate about using our experience and expertise to add value to your claim. We strive to get the full compensation you need and deserve so you can focus on recovering.

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Contact the Firm Serving Injured Motorcyclists in Houston and Throughout Texas

If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident or lost a loved one, then schedule your free consultation with a Houston motorcycle accident attorney at Perdue & Kidd as soon as possible.

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Motorcycle Accident FAQs

Why is it important to seek legal representation after a motorcycle accident?

How long do I have to file a claim after being injured in a motorcycle accident?

How can negligence by other drivers contribute to motorcycle accidents?

Will I have to go to court for a motorcycle accident claim if I've been injured?

What should I do if the insurance company denies my claim?

How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident attorney?

What are the benefits of a consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney?

What if I’m blamed for the accident?

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

Can motorcycles split lanes in Texas?

How will comparative negligence affect my motorcycle accident claim?

How long will the lawsuit take?

Why is it important to seek legal representation after a motorcycle accident?

A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can protect your rights, navigate complex legal processes, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and work to secure fair compensation for your losses.

How long do I have to file a claim after being injured in a motorcycle accident?

The time limit for filing a motorcycle accident claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. It is crucial to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure that you do not miss the deadline for filing your claim.

How can negligence by other drivers contribute to motorcycle accidents?

Negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, driving while intoxicated, failure to check blind spots, failure to yield, improper lane changes, and speeding can significantly increase the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists.

Will I have to go to court for a motorcycle accident claim if I've been injured?

Many motorcycle accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations with the involved insurance companies, avoiding the need for a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.

What should I do if the insurance company denies my claim?

Seek legal representation to challenge the denial and pursue the compensation you deserve. An attorney can review the denial, gather additional evidence, and advocate for your rights.

How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident attorney?

Most motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they secure compensation for you. This fee structure allows victims to access legal representation without upfront costs.

What are the benefits of a consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney?

A consultation provides an opportunity to discuss the specifics of your case, understand your legal options, and gain insights into the potential outcomes without any financial obligation. Rest assured, our dedicated team at Perdue & Kidd has over 100 years of combined experience in personal injury law, which includes achieving meaningful outcomes for victims of motorcycle accidents.

What if I’m blamed for the accident?

Even if you’re accused of causing the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. Liability is often disputed, and evidence like police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction can help prove your case. Your attorney can challenge unfair blame and protect your rights.

What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

In Texas, riders over 21 are not legally required to wear a helmet if they meet certain conditions. However, not wearing a helmet could impact your claim, especially if you sustained head injuries. The defense may argue that your injuries were worsened due to not wearing a helmet, potentially reducing your compensation under comparative negligence laws.

Can motorcycles split lanes in Texas?

No, lane splitting—riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic—is illegal in Texas. If an accident occurs while lane splitting, it could impact liability and fault in your case.

How will comparative negligence affect my motorcycle accident claim?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault. If you are more than 50% responsible for the accident, you may not be eligible for compensation. Your attorney at Perdue & Kidd can help minimize your level of fault and maximize your potential recovery.

How long will the lawsuit take?

The timeline for a motorcycle accident lawsuit varies based on factors like the severity of injuries, the complexity of the case, and whether a settlement is reached. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take over a year if they go to trial. A lawyer at Perdue & Kidd can give you a better estimate based on your specific circumstances.

If you have questions about your case, Perdue & Kidd in Houston can provide the legal guidance you need.

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