Motorcycle riding can be extremely exhilarating. However, it can also be dangerous, as riders can sustain serious injuries even in minor accidents due to the lack of protection. Such collisions can completely derail a person's life, leading to physical, mental, and financial challenges. This is unfair, especially if the crash happens due to someone else's negligence.
Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys have helped many injured motorcyclists in Texas by protecting their rights and fighting for the compensation they deserve. Those injured in a motorcycle crash in Dallas, Texas, should reach out to them to discuss their case and learn more about their legal options. They can help with questions such as What is the most common motorcycle head injury?
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Many motorcyclists suffer blows to their heads, which can lead to head or traumatic brain injuries. It can completely alter the victim's life, adversely impacting their ability to carry out their daily routine or interact with others.
Depending on the force and the location of the impact, a rider may sustain other types of injuries, some of which include the following:
Spinal cord injuries
Road rash
Broken bones and fractures
Internal injuries
Wearing protective gear can reduce the risk of a motorcycle injury in a minor accident, but it may not be enough to protect the rider in a catastrophic crash. Riders must ride slowly and practice defensive riding to avoid collisions with other road users. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can also advise on what time of day most motorcycle accidents happen.
What Are the Different Types of Motorcycle Accidents?
There are many different types of motorcycle accidents, some of which include the following:
Motorcycle Crashes Caused by Left-hand Turning Cars
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, crossing-path accidents are one of the most common types of motorcycle crashes in the United States.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 36% of all fatalities involve a left-hand turning car.
Since motorcycles are smaller than cars, most drivers fail to see the riders when making a left-hand turn. It can result in the motorcyclist sustaining severe injuries upon impact.
In most cases, the driver may be responsible for the motorcycle accident if their automobile hits a motorbike when executing a left-turn maneuver. However, if the motorcyclist broke the law before the crash, they may either share responsibility or be entirely liable for the incident.
Lane-switching Motorcycle Accidents
On a four-lane road, it is common for motor vehicle drivers and other road users to switch lanes. Failure to check one's blind spot before lane-switching can lead to a catastrophic motorcycle crash, for which the driver may be liable.
Motorcycle riders must either speed up or slow down if they're in a motor vehicle's blind spot to reduce the risk of collisions. Motorcyclists must remain observant and practice defensive driving techniques to ensure their safety while on the road.
Head-on Collisions
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), over two-thirds (almost 76%) of all motorcycle accidents are head-on collisions. This refers to a motorcycle being hit by another vehicle or an object from the front.
Head-on collisions are fatal motorcycle crashes where the motorcycle riders' chances of survival are minimal. The impact can either cause life-threatening crushing injuries or throw the rider into the air, resulting in their death.
A driver driving on the wrong side of the road may be liable for the damages caused in the event of a motorcycle accident.
Motorcyclists must read the road, remain focused, and stay on the right side. This can help reduce the risk of head-on motorcycle accident injuries or deaths.
Lane-splitting Motorcycle Crashes
Lane-splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. This is a risky maneuver, as drivers do not expect motorcycles. They might move lanes without anticipating the incoming rider, increasing the risk of motorcycle accidents.
While lane-splitting is legal in some states, it's currently illegal within the state of Texas. Any motorcyclist who suffers injuries in a lane-splitting accident may be liable for the damages caused.
Drunk Driving Motorcycle Accidents
A 2021 NHTSA crash statistics report revealed that 43% of all motorcycle riders involved in single-vehicle crashes had alcohol in their system, and 29% of all fatal crashes occurred due to alcohol impairment.
Drinking before riding a motorcycle can adversely impact a rider's ability to control their vehicle. Alcohol can impair one's judgment, increasing the risk of injuries and fatalities.
It's important to note that motorcycle accidents can also happen because of drunk drivers. In such situations, the injured motorcyclist may be able to bring a motorcycle accident case against the impaired driver to recover compensatory damages.
Corner-turning Crashes
Turning corners can be tricky. It's important for motorcyclists to assess their riding skills and time the turn to avoid collisions with incoming traffic.
Misjudging a turn or making a hard turn can cause a motorcycle to slip or enter an intersection too fast, leaving no room for drivers to avoid a collision. It can lead to traumatic injuries and even death.
A rule of thumb when making corner turns is to enter slowly and leave quickly. This can reduce the risk of accidents.
Riders must stay aware and pay attention to incoming vehicles, as even if they execute the perfect turn, a negligent driver on the road may end up crashing into the motorbike.
High-speed Motorcycle Accidents
According to the NHTSA, 34% of all fatal motorcycle accident cases involved speeding as a contributing factor. Driving too fast can exponentially multiply the crash energy and force, which can be deadly upon contact.
Besides speeding motorists, riders also like to ride fast. The adrenaline rush can cause them to lose track of their speed, making it difficult to brake or slow down to avoid collisions with other vehicles or road hazards.
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Negligence
Distracted driving, driving while intoxicated, texting behind the wheel, or munching on a snack while operating a vehicle are all examples of acts of negligence. Drivers must adhere to the traffic rules and have their eyes on the road, avoiding all possible forms of distractions.
When a motorcycle accident happens due to another's negligence, it could lead to severe injuries for which the injured rider may be able to pursue a claim or lawsuit against the negligent party's insurance company.
Besides drivers, riders can also engage in activities that may cause distraction, such as looking at the billboard signs instead of the road or talking on their phones.
If an accident happens due to a negligent rider, they may be liable for the damages caused.
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Hazardous Road Conditions
In some cases, a motorcycle accident may not involve another driver or vehicle. Hazardous or poor road conditions can make it challenging for a rider to take control of their motorbike, increasing the risk of a single-vehicle crash.
A municipality that fails to repair a road or debris from the construction zone can cause a motorcycle to slip and crash. When that happens, the relevant government entity may be responsible for the injuries caused to the rider.
Recovering Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident in Dallas, Texas
Under the personal injury law in Texas, injured motorcyclists may be able to recover compensatory damages by pursuing claims against the negligent party.
However, going through the legal process and dealing with the insurer can be hectic, which is why it's crucial to reach out to an experienced Dallas motorcycle accident attorney.
Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys Are Experts at Handling Motorcycle Accident Claims!
With more than $1 billion recovered for their clients, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys are legal experts who can help injured victims avoid the pitfalls associated with pursuing claims and negotiating fair settlements with insurers.
Those who have suffered motorcycle accident injuries in Dallas, Texas, due to another's negligence should call to schedule a free consultation with Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, as they may be eligible for compensation!