Riding a motorcycle in Houston is thrilling and liberating but risky at the same time. The possibility of accidents is there and they can happen quickly leaving the bikers with major injuries. In the case one or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle accident in Houston, then it would be good to know the rights and take the necessary actions such as referring to a lawyer and cautiously interacting with the insurance company which can all be part of the protection of your future.
Common Injuries In Houston Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle crashes typically have a harder impact than other vehicle collisions, with riders suffering heavy wounds and even death. The reason for the higher danger level of motorcycle accident in Houston TX is that motorcycles are an open mode of transport.
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Breaking and fracturing bones
- Loss of skin
- Internal injuries
Moreover, the victims have to bear the moral and emotional effects as well. People may undergo months of physical therapy and have to deal with getting their financial situation back on track due to high hospital bills along with losing their income during the recovery phase.
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What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In Houston
The first moments following a motorcycle accident Houston TX are disorganized and nightmare-like scenes. Knowing what to do can still be your health and legal rights preserved:
- Immediate medical attention is a must
- Call the police
- Documentation
- Exchange information
- Witnesses have to be talked to
- Do not accept liability under any circumstances
- Retain a motorcycle accident attorney in Houston
Understanding Texas Motorcycle Laws
Your case handling could also be affected by your knowledge of the Texas motorcycle laws. The major legal aspects are mentioned below:
- Helmet laws: Apart from being mandatory for riders under 21, helmets are legal to wear for riders over 21.
- Comparative negligence: The modified comparative negligence rule is the one that Texas applied. Being determined as partially at fault (under 51%) will still allow you to claim damages, but your compensation will be cut down by your proportion of fault.
- Insurance requirements: The law in Texas states that the minimum liability insurance coverage is mandatory for all motorists, including motorcyclists.
- Statute of limitations: In Texas, the general period of two years from the accident date is given for filing a personal injury lawsuit. If you fail to file within this period, you will lose your right to claim compensation forever.
Why You Need A Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
After an accident, insurance companies usually try to minimize or even deny claims. They might even claim that the biker was at fault by portraying motorcycle riders as “inherently reckless.” Consequently, it is necessary for your lawyer to be knowledgeable about motorcycle accidents in Houston and be your ally during such incidents.
An expert lawyer will:
- Investigate the accident and gather strong evidence (traffic reports, medical records, witness statements, video tapes).
- Carry out negotiations with insurance companies in a very assertive way.
- Assess the complete value of your claim by considering medical costs, lost wages, future treatments, and psychological suffering.
- File a lawsuit if it is required in order to receive proper compensation.
Common Defenses Used by Insurance Companies
Insurance companies have a certain set of strategies that they employ in order to bring down the amount they would otherwise have to pay:
- Blaming the rider – saying you were going too fast or not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
- Downplaying injuries – asserting that your injuries were either pre-existing or not that serious.
- Delaying payments – waiting for the time when you will be so frustrated that you will agree to the settlement for a lesser amount.
- Lowball offers – making an extremely small settlement offer very early in the process.
A proficient attorney is aware of these strategies and will counter them with strong evidence and expert witness testimony.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Case Take in Houston?
Figuring out how long this will take isn’t easy. Simple cases might wrap up in a few months. But if there are serious injuries or disagreements about who’s responsible, it could drag on for a year or longer. What really changes the timeline?
- How badly you’re hurt and how much medical care you need
- How well the insurance companies work with us
- If we need to file a lawsuit or go to trial
Your lawyer will keep you in the loop during everything, and will also try to move your case as quickly as possible.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a motorcycle wreck in Houston can really mess you up, leaving you feeling down and stressed. Getting a good Houston motorcycle accident lawyer means someone’s watching out for you and making sure you get what you deserve. So, after a crash, get medical help, report the accident, and chat with a lawyer to help yourself heal and look out for what’s coming.
