Thursday, November 1, 2012

Texas Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riding has grown in popularity over the years and as the number of motorcyclists increase so will the number of accidents. While motorcycle fatalities across the nation have actually declined in the past decade, Texas motorcycle fatalities have increased. In 2010, the majority of motorcycle deaths occurred in those between the ages of 20 and 29. Texas law allows children as young as five to ride on a motorcycle as a passenger which probably accounts for the fact that seventeen of the motorcycle fatalities in Texas from 2010 were children younger than 19.

No Protection for Motorcyclists

There are few barriers between a motorcycle rider and the car which collides with it or even with the motorcycle and the road itself. While automobiles have the luxury of crumple zones, a metal “cage” surrounding the passengers, seat belts and airbags—motorcyclists have none of these. A reliable motorcycle helmet and a set of leathers, along with the necessary riding skills are literally the only protections afforded the motorcyclist, making the roadways fairly hazardous places for the motorcycle rider.

Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

In the state of Texas alone, it is estimated there are nearly half a million motorcyclists sharing the roadways with automobiles and trucks. A full two-thirds of all Texas motorcycle accidents will result in serious injury or death to the motorcyclist, with 434 fatal motorcycle accidents occurring in 2009 alone. In fact, 14% of all traffic fatalities in Texas are motorcyclists as, overall, per mile traveled motorcyclists have a 35% greater chance of being involved in a fatal accident than those in passenger vehicles. Aside from those who lose their lives in Texas motorcycle accidents, another 5,000 – 6,000 Texas motorcyclists suffer serious injury following a motorcycle accident every year. Surprising to many, 90% of motorcycle accidents across the nation occur on main roads rather than highways with the vast majority occurring at intersections.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

The cause factors involved in motorcycle accidents often centers around reduced visibility. Auto drivers often fail to see motorcyclists because they are smaller visual targets and can easily be obscured by other vehicles. Auto drivers may suddenly shift lanes, sideswiping the motorcyclist in the next lane or may make a left hand turn in front of a motorcyclist because they misjudge the speed the motorcycle is traveling. Other drivers back out of their driveway or parking lot without spotting the motorcyclist behind them. Road hazards which offer little threat to auto drivers can be very serious issues for a motorcyclist. A change in pavement height, unrepaired potholes or an unexpected tree branch or other object in the road can all lead to a serious or fatal crash.

Special Circumstances Surrounding Motorcycle Accidents

Any type of vehicle accident can be traumatic, however those who are involved in an accident while riding a motorcycle will not only end up with more severe injuries, they must also deal with a variety of issues not experienced by those in vehicles. The statute of limitations can be a significant factor in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident—the victim of a motorcycle accident who misses this narrow window of opportunity could end up barred forever from recovering compensation for their injures and damages. Another potential problem for the victims of motorcycle accidents can be the bias against motorcycle riders; many jurors and even police officers perceive motorcyclists as being risk takers who drive at excessive speeds.

Getting Help Following Your Motorcycle Accident

Any motorcyclist who has been in an accident should consult an experienced motorcycle injury attorney to ensure equitable compensation is received for another’s negligence. Motorcycle accidents are much more complex than auto accidents therefore it is essential that you get a qualified bike accident lawyer on board as soon as possible. You may have stacks of medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering due to the actions of another. Perhaps you will never again be able to return to work and will spend the remainder of your life with a disability due to the accident. A knowledgeable motorcycle injury attorney may be able to help.

Author: Sullo & Sullo Attorneys

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