Denton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Denton Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcyclists face a higher risk of serious injury in traffic collisions. If you’ve been injured in a crash, a Denton motorcycle accident lawyer at Alagood Cartwright Burke PC can help you understand your legal options. Riders often suffer injuries that lead to long recovery periods and major expenses. A Denton personal injury lawyer can explain how Texas law handles injury compensation and what steps you can take to protect your rights.

Seeking further legal help requires an understanding of the everyday dangers that motor vehicle crashes pose. In Texas in 2023, every two minutes and six seconds, a person was injured in a motor vehicle crash, with one person killed every two hours and three minutes. In 2023, deaths occurred from crashes every day. A total of 9,405 motorcycle crashes occurred in Texas in 2023, ranging from minor injuries to death.

Understanding Motorcycle Crashes in Denton, TX

A motorcycle crash is not the same as other motor vehicle accidents. Motorcycle riders usually face more severe injuries, even when driving at low speeds. Motorcyclists are fully exposed to the impact of a collision. Unlike cars, motorcycles don’t have seat belts or airbags to help absorb the impact. Often, motorcyclists can be thrown from their motorcycle and collide with the road, other vehicles, or nearby structures.

In Denton in 2023, a total of 2,804 motor vehicle crashes occurred, a large number of them being motorcycle crashes. The most common causes of motorcycle crashes include:

• Other drivers failing to see motorcycles during lane changes or not checking their blind spots
• Distracted driving, such as texting or even adjusting the radio
• When a driver makes a left turn without noticing a nearby motorcyclist
• A tailgating driver (when a driver doesn’t leave a lawful distance between the vehicle ahead)
• Drivers who ignore traffic laws, like running red lights or failing to yield properly
• Drunk or impaired drivers

Many of these incidents may not be the motorcyclist’s fault, yet they must deal with the severe consequences. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Denton, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel to help you understand your legal rights and the options available in your unique case.

Injury Severity in Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle injuries tend to be more severe than injuries in other vehicle accidents, leading to more serious injuries compared to other motor vehicles. In 2023, a total of 15% of all motor vehicle crashes involved a motorcycle, with 6,335 motorcyclists killed.

Common injuries from motorcycle accidents can include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Road rash and deep lacerations
• Internal bleeding

Even minor accidents can result in major injuries to a motorcyclist, given the vulnerability of the rider. Recovery can take weeks, months, or even longer, depending on the severity of the injury. Protect yourself with the proper gear, like helmets and leather (or other protective fabric) jackets or pants.

Crash Risk Factors in Denton

Road conditions and major roads can also contribute to accident risk. On major roads like I-35E, I-35W, and U.S. Highway 380, higher crash rates can occur. These major highways see heavy traffic, including drivers from out of town who might not be familiar with the local roads in Denton.

It’s important for motorcyclists to stay vigilant on these roads in order to stay safe. With the high speeds of a highway, accidents can be more severe for motorcyclists. Traffic congestion can also lead to higher crash volume.

Insurance and Liability After a Crash

Often, motorcyclists can be unfairly blamed for a collision. In Texas, liability is determined by fault. This means if a person in the accident is found to be more than 50% at fault for the crash, they can’t recover damages from the other party. In an accident, evidence such as dashcam footage, police reports, and witness statements can help determine who is over 50% at fault for the crash.

All Texas drivers must have liability insurance with minimums of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. However, depending on the severity of your injuries, this minimum won’t cover the full cost of care.

Here at Alagood Cartwright Burke PC, we can help examine any evidence and present the facts of the crash, as well as make sure any injuries you suffer are properly compensated for.

Steps After a Motorcycle Accident

If you’re involved in a motorcycle crash, the steps you take after can heavily affect your health and any compensation you might be owed. Be sure to:

• Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. You may have internal injuries, which don’t always present right away.
• Contact law enforcement and be sure a police report is filed.
• Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
• Collect witness names and their contact information.

You should also notify your insurance company, but avoid providing any statements until you understand your options. Contacting a Denton attorney can help you cover all your bases during this time.

Damages in Motorcycle Accidents

In Texas, people injured in accidents may be entitled to recover damages for the following:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Wages you could have earned if you were able to work
• Pain and suffering (along with disability and disfigurement)
• Property damage

FAQs About Motorcycle Accident Law in Denton,TX

How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements?

Motorcycle accident settlements vary. Various factors are taken into consideration, like injury severity, fault, and available insurance. In Texas, minor injury cases can settle for $10,000, while more serious claims can reach up to $200,000. Economic losses, such as missed work and medical expenses, are taken into account. Pain and suffering can be harder to value, which is why it’s important to have an experienced lawyer representing your case.

How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?

The length of an accident settlement can vary depending on the complexity and severity of the case. A general timeline can be six months to a year if the liability in the case is clear and the injuries are minor. If your case has more complexities, like the length of medical treatment and the cooperation of the insurance companies, it can take over a year. Some cases might need to be filed through the local court system.

What Not to Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

Do not leave the scene. Don’t refuse medical treatment. Don’t apologize or admit any fault. Avoid giving any recorded statements to insurance companies without first contacting a lawyer to fully understand your rights. Don’t post about the crash on your social media pages. These actions can affect not only your case but also your recovery and quality of life as well. Focusing on documentation and evidence is key, as well as seeking experienced counsel.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring an Accident Attorney?

Don’t choose someone unfamiliar with the specifics of motorcycle cases. Don’t hire someone based on their ads alone. Be sure to thoroughly read a firm’s reviews and check their credentials. Avoid any attorneys who make guarantees or overpromise. You’ll want a lawyer who understands local laws and local court procedures in Denton. Choose a firm that communicates clearly and keeps you up to date during proceedings.

Get the Legal Answers You Need — Contact Us Today

If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle crash, Alagood Cartwright Burke PC offers support and guidance under Texas personal injury law. Contact us today to explore your legal options with an experienced Denton motorcycle accident lawyer.