Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

John T. Flood is Corpus Christi Motorcycle Accident Lawyer who focuses on motorcycle accident cases. Call (361) 654-8877 today to get compensation for your injury. 

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable on roads and highways, second only to pedestrians and bicyclists. The Insurance Information Institution reported 5,172 in motorcycle accidents in 2017. This tragic statistic rings an alarm for more to be done to ensure the wellbeing of those who lack protection from the elements such as motorcyclists.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles offer zero protection to its riders, which causes the impact of even a minor accident to be multiplied resulting in catastrophic injuries and death. Motorcyclists can take all precautions necessary including safety training and safety gear such as helmets and still not stand a chance against a negligent driver. Unfortunately motorcyclists must face a multitude of obstacles every day they’re on the road.

Distracted Drivers

Similar to pedestrians and bicyclists, motorcyclists must maintain their visibility to other drivers. When motor vehicle drivers’ attention is diverted from the road, they directly endanger the motorcyclists they can no longer see. Drivers engaging in distracted driving behaviors are often:

• Texting while driving
• Talking on the phone while driving
• Eating and drinking
• Changing the radio station
• Checking social media while driving
• Being distracted by vehicle occupants

While these actions may seem minor they result in thousands of accidents each year. A driver’s attention should always be focused on the road so they can anticipate and readily react to traffic and driver behavior.

Intoxicated Drivers

Drivers who drive while impaired put the lives of those with whom they share the road at risk. Drunk drivers are less likely to have clear vision, adequate reaction timing, and other key components necessary to travel safely. Impaired drivers are less likely to notice a motorcyclist and less likely to properly execute driving maneuvers – such as proper lane changes – that could kill a rider.

Road Debris

Unmaintained roads are serious hazards for motorcyclists. The design of a motorcycle is not equipped to handle road debris and hazards that passenger vehicles and large trucks can. A simple pothole can prove fatal for a motorcycle. When cities fail to keep roadways clear, motorcyclists are at risk when they have to swerve to miss hitting an object, which could result in a domino-like effect of other accidents.

Improper Driving Maneuvers

Drivers who make improper lane changes without signaling, without signals from traffic lights, or simply change lanes without looking can inflict serious injuries or kill unsuspecting motorcycle riders. In addition to improper lane changes, left turns are another deadly driving maneuver passenger vehicle drivers make that puts the lives of motorcyclists at risk.

Injuries Associated with Accidents

Motorcycles lack the features motor vehicles are designed with that aim to protect occupants in the event of a crash. Because of this, motorcycle accident injuries are more catastrophic. Common injuries associated with motorcycle accidents include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Amputations
• Severe burns and road rash
• Deep lacerations

Serious injuries can alter a person’s life and impose severe financial burdens on an individual and their loved ones. Unfortunately for motorcyclists, the survival rate associated with motorcycle-related collisions leaves riders 27 times more likely to die in an accident than those in a passenger vehicle.

Corpus Christi Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Drivers of all vehicles deserve the peace of mind of knowing they will safely arrive at their destinations. Unfortunately, because of negligent drivers and poor road maintenance, motorcyclists are disproportionately affected by road hazards. If you or a loved one was seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. There is limited time to act following your accident in Texas, so don’t delay in contacting experienced accident attorney John Flood to aggressively and efficiently fight for your rights.

Were you injured in a motorcycle accident? Call Corpus Christi attorney John Flood at (361) 654-8877 for a free initial case evaluation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents

What is the average payout for a motorcycle accident?

As with any average, there are payouts that are higher and that are lower than what each individual motorcycle accident case is worth. When determining the appropriate motorcycle injury compensation, a number of factors can affect the case’s value, including liability, damages, and the available insurance and other assets from which you can obtain a financial recovery.

What is the most common major motorcycle injury?

The most common major motorcycle injury is a traumatic brain injury. In addition, other common types of motorcycle injuries include:

• Arm injuries
• Muscle damage
• Neck injuries
• Road rash
• Injuries to the lower extremities, including amputation
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries
• Fractures

What is the number one cause of motorcycle accidents?

The number one cause of motorcycle accidents is the failure of other motorists on the road to detect and/or recognize motorcycles sharing the road with them. There is limited visibility due to a motorcycle’s small size, which can make it hard for drivers to see a bike coming. Even the best rider can’t avoid a crash if other cars on the road don’t see them coming.

Do I have to call the police if I was in a motorcycle accident?

Yes, you should call the police if you are involved in a motorcycle accident. These crashes are often caused by the negligence of other drivers and those people can be sued for financial compensation for the damages they caused you. If the other driver does not want to contact the police, you should insist on doing it anyway. Having an official police report after your motorcycle accident will help you get the compensation you deserve.

How much is my motorcycle accident worth?

No one can guess the exact value of a motorcycle accident case; however, an experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to evaluate the facts of your particular situation and let you know an estimated range of recovery. Various factors can affect your ability to receive top dollar, including who caused the accident, how injured you are, and how much insurance the responsible party or parties have.

Should I take photos of my motorcycle accident?

Yes, you should always take photos of a motorcycle accident if you are physically safe and medically able. Documenting the scene of the accident, the vehicle damage and damage to your bike, as well as any resulting injuries will help provide evidence to bolster your claims for damages. Be sure to capture the impact to each vehicle, the license plates, and any skid marks or other identifying aspects of the accident scene.