Mansfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Those operating a motorcycle in the State of Texas must adhere to the same traffic laws as other motor vehicles on the road. Motorist must exercise extreme care when sharing the road with motorcyclists. Motorcyclists involved in roadway accidents are much more susceptible to severe injuries or death than those traveling in passenger vehicles. If a driver causes an accident with a motorcyclists, the biker could sustain severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal damage, and head trauma.
Following a motorcycle accident is best to retain the services of a knowledgeable attorney. A Mansfield motorcycle accident lawyer could help you seek compensation for your damages such as medical expenses, property damage, mental anguish, lost wages, as well as pain and suffering. Reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Mansfield
There are various causes of motorcycle accidents. These may include:
- Failing to obey traffic laws such as traveling too closely behind a vehicle, using a mobile device or another source of distraction, or excessive speed
- Drivers may make costly mistakes such as changing lanes without noticing a motorcyclist positioned in their blind spot
- Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Hazardous weather conditions may exist such as slippery roads from rain or ice, or fog that impairs vision
- Dangerous road conditions with potholes or other surface damages
Determining the cause of an accident can be challenging. There may be multiple causes, such as having more than one motorist that bears responsibility.
Understanding Accident Liability and Damages
In many motorcycle accident cases, more than one party could be held liable for damages. Per Texas Civil Practices & Code § 33.001, the concept of proportionate liability applies to personal injury cases with more than one negligent party. In certain situations, the injured claimant may be partially liable for damages. For example, if the plaintiff was partially negligent, or more than one defendant exhibited negligence, the courts will allocated liability to each party.
In the State of Texas, the plaintiff may recover compensation for damages as long as they are found to be less than 50 percent at fault. The courts will reduce the claimant’s compensation award by their share of liability. A seasoned motorcycle accident attorney in Mansfield could explain the rule of shared liability and help the injured party seek compensation that covers all of their damages.
Recovering Compensation For Damages
The injured party could seek compensation for damages from the reckless party that caused their accident. The classifications of damages include economic, non-economic, or punitive.
Economic Damages
Economic damages refer to the monetary losses the injured party sustains. These types of damages compensate the injured party for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and rehabilitation.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are meant to compensate the injured party for their emotional losses. This could include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, losses of enjoyment, and loss of consortium. Limits or caps do not apply to noneconomic damages in personal injury cases unless the defendant is a governmental entity.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are rarely awarded compensation requiring that aggravating circumstances exist. The awards apply to cases where the plaintiff’s conduct demonstrated gross negligence, malice, or fraud. A limit or cap applies to these awards, which may not exceed the sum of twice the amount of economic and the total of noneconomic damages.
Schedule a Consultation With a Mansfield Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Riders involved in dangerous bike accidents should consult with a diligent motorcycle crash attorney. While recuperating from the accident, a Mansfield motorcycle accident lawyer could review the police report, gather evidence from the scene, communicate with insurance companies, calculate your damages, and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Motorists who operate on the roads carelessly or recklessly should be held accountable for damages they caused. Injured motorcyclists deserve aggressive legal representation that could carefully review the facts, accurately assess your losses, and protect your interests. Call today to get started on your case.