Edinburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Why Are Motorcycle Accidents So Common?

Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common in Texas due to a variety of factors:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Texas is distracted driving. Drivers who are not paying attention to the road often fail to see motorcyclists, leading to accidents.
• Left-Hand Turn Accidents: These accidents occur when a vehicle making a left-hand turn collides with a motorcycle. The driver may fail to yield the right-of-way to the motorcyclist.
• Head-On Collisions and Speeding: Both of these factors contribute significantly to the prevalence of motorcycle accidents in Texas.
• Impaired Driving and Road Hazards: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Additionally, road hazards such as potholes, debris, and slick surfaces can lead to accidents.
• Aggressive Driving: Tailgating and other forms of aggressive driving pose a particular risk to motorcyclists.
• Low Visibility: It's often difficult for drivers in cars to see and judge the speed of motorcycles.
• High Population Density and Weather Conditions: Texas has a large population and diverse weather conditions, both of which can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents.
• Excessive Speed: In some areas, like Houston, excessive speed has been noted as a primary cause of crashes.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in various injuries, some of which can be life-altering. Common injuries include:

• Head and Brain Injuries: Despite wearing helmets, riders can suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBI) due to the impact. These injuries could lead to long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and other neurological problems.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, profoundly impacting the victim's quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause multiple fractures, including broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. These injuries might necessitate surgeries and prolonged periods of immobilization and physical therapy.
• Road Rash: When riders are thrown from their bikes, they often skid along the pavement, resulting in severe skin abrasions known as road rash. In severe cases, this can lead to infections and require skin grafting.
• Internal Injuries: The blunt force trauma from an accident can damage internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions. Immediate medical attention is critical for such injuries to prevent complications.
• Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, motorcycle accidents can cause significant emotional and psychological distress. Victims could suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, impacting their overall well-being.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Victims of motorcycle accidents may be qualified for various types of damages to cover their losses. The types of damages that can normally be recovered in a motorcycle accident claim include the following:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all costs connected to emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical treatments required due to the accident. Compensation should cover both current and anticipated medical costs.
• Lost Wages: Injuries from a motorcycle accident can render a victim incapable of working temporarily or permanently. Compensation for lost wages covers the earnings lost during recovery and any reduction in earning capacity if the victim cannot return to their previous employment.
• Pain and Suffering: Victims can receive compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the accident. This includes the ongoing impact on their daily life, relationships, and mental health.
• Property Damage: Compensation can cover the repair or replacement of the motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy Costs: Long-term rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological counseling, are often necessary for recovery. These costs should be included in the compensation.
• Loss of Consortium: Spouses and family members could be qualified for compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from the victim's injuries.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the at-fault party's conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.