Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

If you were riding your motorcycle in Houston and were injured in a crash someone else caused, you’re probably wondering what comes next. We can help you pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical bills and other accident-related expenses.

Houston is a sprawling city that can be fun to explore on two wheels. However, it is also one of the most dangerous cities in Texas for motorcycle riders. The Texas Department of Transportation estimates that in 2021, 521 motorcyclists died in crashes on Texas roadways. Forty-five percent of those killed were not wearing helmets.

Although you have the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists, as a motorcycle rider, you may have a more challenging time seeking the fair compensation you deserve after an accident.

At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, we are committed to helping motorcycle riders pursue justice after a devastating motorcycle accident. Careless motorists deserve to be held accountable for their actions, and you deserve fair compensation for your injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a Houston motorcycle accident, contact The DJF Law Firm, PLLC for help with your claim. Call 832-529-3476 to set up a free initial legal consultation and learn more about how we can help you seek the money you need.

How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help You

Motorcycle accidents can cause a wide range of significant physical and financial setbacks. The severe nature of these collisions often means that motorcycle accident claims are more complex and challenging than other types of Houston accident cases. An unspoken bias against motorcycle riders can also contribute to the complexity of a motorcycle accident case. Some insurers still buy into the media stereotype of the “bad biker.” These are riders who are careless and only looking for trouble.

At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, we aggressively fight against this stereotype and other potential biases that may limit your ability to recover fair compensation after an accident. Insurance companies don’t want to pay you. These for-profit businesses want to keep their profit margins high. Sometimes that means attempting to blame you for the wreck and avoiding paying you what your claim is worth. An experienced Houston motorcycle accident attorney knows what it takes to counter these insurance company strategies and help you pursue the money you deserve. 

A skilled Houston motorcycle accident attorney will also be able to help you with:

• Understanding your legal options
• Determining who is liable for the accident
• Helping you file an insurance claim
• Managing communication between you and the insurer
• Investigating the cause of the accident
• Collecting relevant evidence
• Negotiating with an insurer on your behalf
• Filing a lawsuit if necessary

You may think filing an insurance claim is easy. However, recovering the money you deserve is not. Don’t accept a lowball offer. Hiring an attorney to work on your claim or lawsuit can increase your chances of obtaining the money you need to recover from your injuries. 

Common Motorcycle Accidents Injuries 

There is no doubt about it. Motorcycle crashes can be catastrophic. Most motorcycles weigh around 400 pounds. The average passenger vehicle weighs at least 3,000 pounds. When these two vehicles collide, the results can be devastating for the motorcycle rider. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include: 

• Traumatic brain injury
• Neck and spinal injuries
• Paralysis
• Amputations
• Facial injuries 
• Dental injuries
• Fractured bones
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Soft tissue damage
• Burns
• Road rash
• Lacerations
• Contusions

The physical injuries associated with motorcycle accidents can eventually lead to scarring, disfigurement, and disability. However, the trauma involved in motorcycle crashes can also lead to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents 

Motorcycles are smaller and more compact than most other vehicles on Texas roads. That can make riders harder to spot, especially distracted and careless drivers. The number one cause of Houston motorcycle accidents tends to be driver error. When motorists fail to monitor their surroundings, they put everyone they share the road with at risk. Common causes of Houston motorcycle crashes include:

• Distracted driving
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Fatigued driving
• Speeding
• Lane splitting
• Following too closely or tailgating
• Unsafe lane changes
• Unsafe or illegal turns
• Failure to yield the right of way
• Poor visibility
• Road hazards

Inclement weather conditions can also cause significant motorcycle accidents. However, all drivers are responsible for taking proper precautions and changing their driving behavior when bad weather hits.

What Is a Houston Motorcycle Accident Worth?

At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, we understand that every motorcycle accident claim is unique. You deserve compensation based on the specific circumstances of your case, not an average settlement number pulled out of thin air. Our experienced legal team will work with you to evaluate the merits of your case and calculate the full and fair value of your motorcycle accident claim.

In many cases, you may be able to recover compensation to cover your economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses are your measurable financial losses, such as medical expenses and property damage. Non-economic losses are subjective losses like quality-of-life changes. You might be eligible for compensation for the following:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Mental anguish
• Loss of quality of life
• Disfigurement
• Pain and suffering

The overall value of your claim can depend on who caused the accident and the severity of your injuries. To understand the value of your unique claim, get in touch with an experienced Houston motorcycle accident lawyer.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Although you may not realize it, your actions in the aftermath of a vehicle collision can have a profound impact on your claim. However, there are steps that you can take after a motorcycle accident to strengthen your chances of gaining a favorable outcome and gaining the compensation you deserve. Consider the following:

• Contact the authorities – After an accident, pull over, check for injuries, and contact the authorities. Law enforcement can help control the scene and render aid if necessary. The subsequent police report may also provide information that can substantiate your claim.
• Seek medical attention immediately – Immediately after a collision, you need to pursue medical treatment. Do not wait to seek medical attention. Nothing is more valuable than your health and safety. In addition, your medical records could be powerful evidence that will strengthen your accident claim.
• Document the scene – If you are physically able, document the scene of the crash by taking photographs and videos. Exchange information with the other driver and with witnesses at the scene.
• Contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney – You do not have to navigate the claim process alone. In fact, it is typically in your best interest to allow an attorney to handle your motorcycle accident claim. An attorney can gather evidence to support your claim and manage communication with the insurer on your behalf.
• Report the accident to your insurer – You will need to contact your insurance company to notify them about the accident. If you have an attorney on your side, allow them to help you effectively communicate with insurers to reduce your chances of saying something that could potentially jeopardize your claim.
• Stick with your treatment plan – Do not deviate from your medical provider’s treatment plan. Although it can be hard work, follow through will all treatment, keep follow-up appointments, and take all medication as prescribed.
• Stay off social media – Never post about the accident on social media platforms. Your words can potentially be used against you to limit your compensation or to support a claim denial. It is best to avoid posting anything on social media until your claim is completely resolved.
• Keep all bills and receipts – To help your attorney calculate the value of your claim, keep all medical bills, repair receipts, and records of out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.

Avoiding Houston Motorcycle Accidents 

All drivers are expected to use caution on Houston roadways. However, that doesn’t always mean that they will. You can help protect yourself from unsafe drivers by following these helpful safety precautions:

• Wear a helmet – It’s a fact. Helmets save lives. Texas law requires all riders to wear a helmet unless they have completed an approved motorcycle safety course or they have insurance that covers motorcycle accident injuries.
• Gear up – A helmet isn’t the only safety equipment that can prevent significant injury. Riders should wear boots, eye protection, leather chaps, and a jacket or other sturdy clothing.
• Stay visible – Try to be as visible as possible, especially at night. Wear clothing with reflective details.
• Check your bike – Before you hit the road, be sure your motorcycle is ready for the journey. Check your tires, fuel, and fluid levels before every ride.

Contact an Experienced Houston Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

A significant motorcycle crash can impact almost every part of your life. You shouldn’t be forced to pay for the mistake of another driver. Before you talk to an insurer or accept any financial offer, talk to an experienced attorney. At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, our skilled Houston motorcycle accident attorneys will take the time to review your situation and help you understand your legal options for recovering compensation.

Let us help you pursue the money you deserve. Call our office at 832-529-3476. We are happy to provide you with a free legal consultation to answer your questions.