Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Houston

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Houston, Texas?

  The Houston Police Department can be reached at (713) 884-3131.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Houston, Texas?

  Accident or crash reports can be acquired through this link: https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/ui/report/search?state=TX&jurisdiction=Houston%20Police%20Department

  You can also visit in person at the Edward A. Thomas Building at 1200 Travis St. Houston, Texas 77002 on the 1st floor. Availing a report costs $6 and takes 5 to 8 days to process.

• I was in an accident in Houston. Should I go see a doctor even if I feel fine?

  Even if you've been checked by an EMT at the accident site, you are still encouraged to go see a doctor who will be properly equipped to detect any serious internal injuries that have not yet manifested through pain, swelling, or any other signs and symptoms, like whiplash. In addition, insurance adjusters will have a hard time downplaying your injuries if you have a record of being seen by a doctor.

• When do I contact my insurance carrier after a motorcycle accident in Houston?

  It is advised that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible. However, refrain from providing any details about your injuries or damages until you have been seen by a doctor and your motorcycle was evaluated by a professional. Giving only information relevant to the incident should be enough.

• Can I still sue for damages after a car crashed into my motorcycle even though I wasn't wearing a helmet?

  Yes, you can, though you should be informed that deciding not to wear a helmet may impact the amount you are entitled to receive. It also depends on the circumstances of the case. Texas follows the modified comparative negligence law, which means that the degree of your responsibility must not go over 51% to recover compensation for damages.

• Am I in trouble for not wearing a helmet in Houston?

  Motorcyclists in Houston under the age of 21 are legally required to wear a helmet.

  If you are above this age, you are no longer required by law to wear a helmet, but you must:

  • Complete a state-approved motorcycle safety course.
  • Prove that you have an insurance plan with coverage for motorcycle accident healthcare costs.

  Still, it is advisable to wear a helmet at all times while driving your motorcycle. 51% of motorcycle accident fatalities were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

• How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit for a motorcycle accident against a government entity in Houston?

  Some examples of motorcycle accidents that involve the government are caused by:

  • Hazardous government-owned properties.
  • Vehicles driven by government employees.

  You have exactly 90 days to file a notice of claim against the municipality of Houston.

  For more detailed instructions on how to accomplish this, refer to: https://www.houstontx.gov/legal/fileclaim.html

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.