Despite their smaller size, motorcycles carry a significant risk on our roads, often due to the oversight of other drivers. In Texas, motorcycle accidents can result in life-altering consequences for riders and their families. These accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving individuals with serious injuries or tragically affecting families both emotionally and financially. With May recognized as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, there is a heightened effort to protect motorcyclists on our roads.
Drivers reminded to watch out for bikers
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness and improving safety for all road users. Throughout this month, various initiatives and campaigns emphasize the importance of motorcycle safety. Agencies and organizations across Texas and the nation encourage drivers to be more alert, share the road responsibly, and recognize the presence of motorcyclists.
Texas bikers at risk
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible, making them prone to severe accidents. Recognizing them as equal road users can help prevent accidents and save lives. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2023, motorcycle fatalities increased by 7%, and fatal crashes at intersections rose by 21%. That was almost 600 people killed and more than 2,400 bikers seriously injured.
The dangers of motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle accidents are particularly dangerous, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack protective structures, leaving riders more exposed to direct impacts during collisions. Additionally, while larger vehicles benefit from safety features such as airbags and seat belts, motorcyclists must rely solely on their protective gear, which may not always provide adequate protection in high-impact accidents.
The behavior of other drivers on the road also contributes to the dangers faced by motorcyclists. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence or inattentiveness of other motorists. Drivers frequently fail to adequately check their blind spots or mirrors, leading to collisions with bikers. Furthermore, misjudging the speed or distance of motorcycles can prompt sudden, unsafe maneuvers that result in accidents.
Common motorcycle accident injuries
With little protection against the hazards of the road, bikers often suffer severe injuries in crashes. Some common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Fractures/broken bones: These injuries occur when the force of impact on the body exceeds the strength of the bone, resulting in a crack or complete break. Common fractures in motorcycle accidents include broken legs, arms, wrists, ribs, and collarbones.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): TBIs are caused by a blow or jolt to the head, leading to disruption of normal brain function. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognition, motor skills, and overall quality of life.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries result from trauma to the spinal cord and can lead to partial or complete loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site.
- Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and skin. They can range from bruises and sprains to more severe injuries like muscle tears and deep cuts.
- Biker's arm: In a crash, bikers often brace themselves with their arm, which then absorbs the majority of the impact, causing nerve damage extending from the arm down to the lower neck.
- Road rash: Road rash happens when the skin comes into contact with the road surface during a motorcycle accident, leading to abrasions, cuts, and scrapes. It can cause pain, infection, scarring, and long-term skin damage.
Get a Laredo, TX lawyer who fights for injured bikers
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident in Texas, you should know you have the right to seek compensation for your accident-related expenses. However, the process of recovering the compensation you deserve for your medical bills and other related expenses isn't always as straightforward as it should be. That's because, to the insurance company, your motorcycle accident injuries represent nothing more than a threat to their bottom line.
At John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, our Laredo legal team has extensive experience dealing with unfair insurance companies and navigating complicated injury claims. We have the skills to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Texas law.
Put your trust in a law firm that puts your best interests first. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. We're dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
"Mr. Solis and staff were hard-fighting personnel for my case! They make you feel comfortable and are very respectful. Always make time for questions and problems you might have. Only lawyer in Laredo that goes out of their way to help." - Rosa R.