PRACTICE AREAS

Motorcycle Accident Common Questions

1.  What is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents?
There are several things that can lead to the occurrence of a motorcycle accident. However, one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in the state of Texas is driver negligence followed by motorcycle operator negligence.  Any time that drivers or motorcyclists act in ways that are negligent it is very likely that a collision will occur.

2.  What is the main cause of death during motorcycle accidents?
Statistics show that the main cause of death during motorcycle accidents is head injuries. This is why it is so important that people who are operating motorcycles wear helmets as well as motorcycle safety equipment, such as riding glasses and boots.

3.  How many people are killed during motorcycle accidents annually in the United States?
According to the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration, approximately 2,000 motorcyclists die each year during accidents.  The NTHSA also reports that injury or death is the outcome in nearly 80% of all motorcycle accident cases.  Furthermore, it is reported that approximately 50,000 people are injured during motorcycle accidents each year throughout the country.

4.  As a motorcyclist, how can I protect myself from injuries?
There are several things you can do. First, always wear a helmet when operating your motorcycle. Wearing a helmet will greatly reduce your chances of suffering a head, neck or brain injury if you are involved in a crash. Second, invest in motorcycle safety equipment, which will protect you from suffering bodily injuries if you are involved in an accident. Finally, always follow your state’s traffic laws and pay attention to your surroundings while you are riding your motorcycle.  For example, never consume alcohol or take drugs prior to operating your motorcycle as this may cause impairment and result in a motorcycle accident.

5.  When can I file a motorcycle accident/personal injury claim?
If you believe that your motorcycle accident was caused by the negligence of another person, you may be able to file a personal injury claim if you suffered injuries or property damage. Even if you are partially at fault, you may still be able to file a personal injury claim for your accident case and recover monetary damages if you can prove that another person was negligent and caused you to sustain injuries.

6. What if a close loved one was killed during a motorcycle accident?
Anytime people have lost close family members during motorcycle accidents such as spouses, children or parents, they may be able to file what is called a wrongful death claim.  By filing this type of lawsuit, families may be able to obtain monetary damages for things such as the deceased’s medical expenses, the deceased’s funeral and burial fees, property damage, loss of companionship, loss of the deceased’s income and pain and suffering.  If you are thinking about filing a wrongful death claim because you lost a loved one during a motorcycle accident, speak with a Houston personal injury lawyer at Joel A. Gordon & Associates today.

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If you and/or a family member have suffered serious or fatal injuries due to an accident, you and/or the family member may be eligible to file a claim. However, persons seeking to preserve any potential legal claims should contact an attorney promptly because Texas has mandatory time periods ("Statute of Limitations") in which a lawsuit must be filed.