In 2020, over 7,481 motorcycle crashes occurred in Texas, seriously injuring 1,856 and killing 482 bikers. Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous incidents that leave riders with debilitating and life-threatening injuries. Typically, motorcyclists are not at fault in these collisions, and more often, riders sustain injuries due to negligent motorists. When you suffer injuries in a motorcycle accident, you might have a compensation claim.
However, hiring a DeSoto motorcycle accident lawyer to handle your claim after a collision is crucial. An experienced injury lawyer can advise you of the best course of action based on the circumstances of your accident and demand appropriate compensation on your behalf. Call today to discover more about your legal rights and get started on your journey to recovery.
Common Injuries Resulting From Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcyclist is more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries in an accident because bikes do not have the same safety features as ordinary vehicles. Unfortunately, even when wearing a helmet, the rider may suffer debilitating injuries, including:
- Bruises and road rash
- Broken bones or fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Injuries to the back, neck, or spine
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Death
Like any other accident, motorcycle crashes usually involve speeding or reckless, distracted, or impaired driving. Discussing the circumstances of a motorcycle accident with an experienced attorney in DeSoto is vital to determining the responsible party.
What Financial Damages Can Motorcycle Crash Victims Recover?
After a motorcycle collision, the injured rider is often left to deal with the consequences. However, filing a claim for compensation can help the victim hold the negligent motorist liable through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the nature of the claim, an attorney can advise the motorcyclist of the best course of action.
Under Texas personal injury law, the rider can receive compensatory damages, which repay them for the economic and non-economic harm they suffered in the accident. Usually, victims can recover any injury-related expense, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages or loss of earning potential
- Property damage to the motorcycle and other property
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
In a personal injury case involving negligence, the judge will often award punitive damages to punish the negligent party and discourage similar conduct in the future. Under Section 41.003 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, the court may award punitive damages in a case involving fraud, malice, or gross negligence.
The amount of compensation awarded to the plaintiff will depend on the circumstances of the case and the nature of their injuries. In some cases, injured riders underestimate the value of their claim and accept an insurance company’s settlement offer that is well below the value of their claim. That said, discussing the claim with an experienced personal injury attorney before accepting any potential offer is essential.
DeSoto Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
DeSoto Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
When you suffer injuries or lose a family member in a motorcycle accident, consider contacting a personal injury attorney to discuss filing a claim. A legal representative will meticulously review your case to determine the cause of your accident and liability and negotiate with insurance companies to obtain the best possible result in your case.
However, there is a limited timeframe to file your compensation claim, so call a lawyer as soon as possible.
