Traffic-related injuries are on the rise in Texas. In 2020, over 200,000 people were injured in car crashes and 3,896 died, among them 482 motorcyclists. These sobering statistics make it essential to exercise caution on the roadway no matter what kind of vehicle you’re operating, but motorcyclists often still face the greater threat. Texas’s helmet laws only require those 21 and under to wear one, making fatalities more likely. And even though lane splitting is technically illegal in Texas, many riders still do it.
Because of these circumstances, it’s essential that motorcyclists know what to do if they are involved in an accident. If you’ve recently been involved in a motorcycle wreck, call my offices in Bryan, Texas to speak with an experienced and compassionate attorney who can help you get back on your feet.
If you find yourself the victim of a motorcycle accident, there are certain steps to take for your physical and financial well-being. It can be hard to think straight in the midst of a crisis, but following these four steps can ensure better outcomes for everyone involved:
Insurance payouts are just one way to receive financial compensation for your accident, but they’re hardly enough to cover most expenses. Many clients find that they will also need to file a personal injury claim, or in the most grievous circumstances, a wrongful death claim.
In Texas, a personal injury claim must be filed within two years of the date of the accident, though you should file suit as soon as you can. In these cases, it’s best to hire an experienced attorney to help you seek the compensation you deserve. In accidents where the rider was killed, a surviving family member can file a wrongful death claim on their behalf to help recover medical costs, property damages, or funeral expenses. Wrongful death claims can only be made by the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased, or by an administrator of the deceased's estate if a claim is not filed within three months by the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased.
Motorcycle accidents can occur for any number of reasons—distracted driving, poor visibility, negligence, gross negligence, or driving at high speeds, to name a few. Whatever the reason, you deserve compensation for your physical pain, suffering, mental anguish, and economic damages. Too often, victims of accidents will accept the first offer from their insurance provider before a proper investigation has been done. And if they do choose to file a personal injury claim, they could make mistakes that can cost them thousands. By hiring a law firm with experience in injury claims like yours, you can increase your chances of a larger financial recovery.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident and need to move forward, call me to discuss your situation. We will fight for you, fiercly and faithfully, every step of the way. Rick Davis & Associates is proud to serve clients in Bryan, Texas, College Station, Texas and surrounding areas in Texas, including Brenham, Anderson, Madisonville, Caldwell, Franklin, Hearne, Washington County, Grimes County, Milam County and beyond. Set up a consultation today.
