Lubbock Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Many motorcyclists are passionate about getting their bikes out on the highways and enjoying the open air. Unfortunately, it is all too common for car and truck drivers to be distracted or just not paying attention, which can result in devastating crashes for motorcyclists. Even when the motorcyclist is blameless, they almost always bear the brunt of the injuries in the event of a collision.
If you were hurt on your motorcycle and someone else’s negligence contributed to the crash, it is critical to reach out to an injury attorney as soon as possible. A Lubbock motorcycle accident lawyer at Chad Jones Law could help you hold the negligent party accountable and pursue compensation for your losses.
Motorcycle Wreck Injuries Are Often Severe
Part of the thrill of motorcycle riding is exposure to the elements, but this also makes the activity hazardous. Motorbikes offer little to no protection in an accident. Crashes often result in severe injuries, including:
- Friction burns (road rash)
- Fractures and joint dislocations
- Facial injuries that cause disfigurement or blindness
- Crushing injuries to internal organs
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injury
- Amputations
These injuries often require significant medical treatment and prolonged recovery time. A spinal cord injury or severe head injury could leave a biker permanently unable to work or live independently.
A damages award from the negligent parties could reimburse an injured biker’s accident-related expenses and provide necessary ongoing support. An experienced Lubbock attorney could further advise motorcyclists about the damages they may be entitled to after an accident.
Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Wreck Case
In a vehicle collision, the party whose negligence caused the accident is liable for the injuries they caused to other parties. Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to shift responsibility onto the biker for their own injuries.
An experienced attorney in Lubbock could review police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, weather data, vehicle recall records, and other information that might reveal the reasons a motorbike crash occurred. An attorney could then use this evidence to demonstrate an injured party’s lack of fault in an accident.
When Does Comparative Negligence Come into Play?
When a motorcyclist does hold some responsibility in a collision’s occurrence, each party is responsible for paying a share of the damages according to their degree of fault. This is known as the comparative negligence standard, which is the law regarding negligence in the state. In these cases, the damages available to the motorcyclist will be reduced to reflect their percentage of fault.
A motorcycle rider who holds more than 50 percent of the responsibility cannot collect any damages from other parties. A skilled attorney could explain the state’s comparative negligence laws in more detail.
Laws Governing Lubbock Motorcycle Riders
There are certain laws that motorcycle riders are required to follow. Failure to comply with relevant laws could reduce an individual’s potential compensation in the instance of an accident, as disobeying the law increases a rider’s percentage of fault. Motorcyclists should be aware of local laws that pertain to them, and an attorney could explain relevant statutes in more detail.
Required Licenses and Tests
Motorcycle operators must obtain a Class M motorcycle license. Applicants must already have a standard driver’s license and pass a written test on motorcycle traffic laws. Applicants under 18 also must take a road test.
Helmet Laws for Motorcyclists
Helmets are required for all motorcycle riders under age 21. A rider 21 or older does not need to wear a helmet if they have taken a motorcycle safety course or have at least $10,000 in medical insurance.
Laws Regarding Lane-Splitting
Lane-splitting is illegal. Texas Vehicle and Traffic Law §545.053 states that operators must leave a safe distance between vehicles when passing. Riding a motorcycle between vehicles in adjacent lanes violates this law.
Discuss Your Case with a Lubbock Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Recovering from a motorcycle wreck can be a slow and painful process, often requiring all your energy and attention for weeks or even months. It is wise to allow a legal professional to handle communications with insurance companies and responsible parties so that you can focus on recovery.
If you have been injured in a wreck due to another party’s negligence, do not hesitate to reach out to a Lubbock motorcycle accident lawyer. The dedicated legal team at Chad Jones Law is ready to get to work for you.
