Motorcycles offer adventure and excitement. However, other drivers on the road often don’t seem to care about motorcycle riders’ safety. If a careless driver causes an accident, the injuries sustained by the rider can be devastating and even fatal.
If you had a motorcycle accident or lost a loved one to an accident, you need an attorney who understands motorcycle culture. You can hang with David Komie, a lawyer who has dreadlocks and who rocks. He works with people from all walks of life, from tattooed bikers to suburban dads who ride on the weekends. At David Komie Law, he works to fight passionately for the rights of injured riders throughout Texas.
Table of Contents
What Are Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Travis County?
Riders have a high risk of serious injury in a motor vehicle accident, as their safety gear does not do much for protection. Survivors of motorcycle accidents may end up needing major surgeries, physical therapy, rehabilitation and other types of treatment, sometimes even for years after the accident. A few of the most common motorcycle injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Road rash
- Joint injuries
- Limb loss
- Burns
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputation
Just about any type of motorcycle crash can end tragically. Sadly, way too many people have a story about losing someone they care about in a fatal incident. If a negligent driver claimed the life of your loved one, don’t just accept it. Stand up for them with Dave’s help so you can hold the person who killed them accountable.
What Are The Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents result from factors that put riders at greater risk than other motorists. By recognizing these causes, drivers can take steps to protect motorcyclists and reduce the likelihood of serious crashes. Several key factors frequently contribute to motorcycle accidents:
- Distracted driving: Automobile drivers who text, use GPS or engage in other distractions may fail to notice motorcycles, which are smaller and harder to see than other vehicles.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions, making it a leading cause of motorcycle crashes.
- Failure to yield: Intersections are high-risk areas. Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists cause T-bone or side-impact accidents.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug use by either motorists or motorcyclists significantly increases the chance of collisions.
- Road hazards: Potholes, debris and slick surfaces are particularly dangerous for motorcycles, which are more susceptible to losing control.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who fail to check blind spots or misjudge a motorcycle’s speed may sideswipe or force a rider off the road.
Automobile drivers also help in preventing these accidents. To protect motorcyclists, drivers should:
- Maintain awareness: Constantly check mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes or merging.
- Give adequate space: Motorcycles need more room to maneuver. Avoid tailgating and provide extra distance when following a bike.
- Use turn signals early: Clearly indicate lane changes or turns well in advance to help prevent sudden movements that could surprise motorcyclists.
- Adjust for weather and road conditions: Slow down in rain, snow or uneven road surfaces to account for motorcycles’ greater sensitivity to traction.
- Respect lane positioning: Motorcycles are entitled to a full lane, and drivers should never attempt to share a lane.
- Use caution at intersections: Slowing down and double-checking for motorcycles before turning can prevent devastating crashes.
It is important to adopt safe driving habits to reduce injuries and fatalities on the road. For victims of motorcycle collisions, having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is essential.
Attorney David helps ensure that injured riders receive proper compensation, hold negligent drivers accountable and navigate the legal process efficiently. Protecting motorcyclists is not just a matter of caution but a responsibility that can save lives and prevent devastating accidents.
How Long Do You Have To File A Motorcycle Accident Claim?
If you have been in a motorcycle accident, do not wait too long to act. There is a deadline for filing a claim, and once that time passes, you will likely not be able to recover any money at all. Here is what you need to know:
- In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a claim.
- The clock starts ticking the day the crash happens, not when you first notice an injury.
- Even if you have clear injuries and proof, the court may throw your case out if it is filed late.
It is always best to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible about your next step. Contact David Komie Law early to improve your chances of recovering what you deserve.
What Is UIM, And Why Does It Matter To Motorcycle Accident Claims?
UIM stands for “Underinsured Motorist” coverage. It is a part of your motorcycle insurance that can protect you when the driver who hit you does not have enough coverage to pay for your injuries. UIM is important because:
- Many drivers do not carry enough insurance. Some carry just the legal minimum, which might not even cover your hospital bills.
- UIM can help cover the gap when the other driver’s insurance falls short.
- This part of your policy kicks in to support you when someone else is at fault but cannot afford the damage they caused.
UIM coverage is often optional, but it is a smart thing to have, especially for motorcyclists, who are more likely to be seriously hurt in a crash.
What Can You Get Paid For After A Motorcycle Crash?
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover money for more than just your bike repairs. Some common types of compensation include:
- Medical bills: Both current and future treatment
- Lost wages: If you missed work or cannot return to work
- Pain and suffering: For the physical and emotional impact
- Bike repair or replacement: For your damaged motorcycle
Every case is different. However, the goal is to help you get back to where you were before the crash, physically, emotionally and financially.
David Is Ready To Ride For You
Contact David Komie Law for an Austin personal injury lawyer who will fight for you and try to recover compensation to cover your costs. Tell us about your situation in a free case evaluation. Call 512-338-0900 or send Dave an email today for help from a Top 100 Trial Lawyer today. Se habla español.