As
motorcycle riding has grown in popularity over the past decade it might
surprise some to realize that a large portion of these additional motorcyclists
are comprised of the “over-fifty crowd.” Contrary to the stereotype of the
motorcyclist who drives recklessly and too fast, this group of motorcyclists
generally drive their bike in the same manner they drive their
automobile—safely and respectful of the other drivers on the road.
Texas Motorcycle Facts
Although
the nation has seen a decline in the overall number of motorcycle fatalities,
the state of Texas has actually had an increase in motorcycle deaths, with the
majority of these deaths occurring in those between the ages of 20 and 29. It
can be traumatic for anyone involved in an accident of any type however those
who are injured in a motorcycle accident are much more likely to suffer death
or serious injury. There is little to no
protection for the motorcycle rider when he is hit by a three-thousand (or more)
pound hunk of metal, steel and glass.
In
fact, a motorcyclist’s only form of protection is an approved helmet, leathers,
and experience in riding a motorcycle. The driver of the auto, on the other
hand, has a variety of safety features including the steel cage surrounding
them, air bags and safety belts. The
roadways of Texas have over half a million motorcyclists and nearly one-sixth
of all traffic fatalities in Texas are motorcyclists. The odds of a motorcyclist
being involved in a fatal accident are much higher than for the auto driver—35%
greater overall. In addition to the 415 Texas motorcycle fatalities in 2010 and
434 in 2009, an average of 5,000 to 6,000 serious injuries result from Texasmotorcycle accidents each year.
Factors Involved in Motorcycle Accidents
Occur
The
majority of all motorcycle accidents occur not on highways, but on main roads,
and primarily in intersections where auto drivers may not see the motorcyclist.
Many times motorcyclists are hit as drivers back out of their driveway or from
a parking lot without properly looking for a motorcyclist. Road hazards which
cause few hazards for a full size car can cause the motorcyclist serious
problems. Potholes, uneven roads, road debris or animals in the road are all
very serious for the motorcyclist as is inclement weather.
Why You Need an Experienced Motorcycle
Accident Attorney
Motorcycle
accidents come with their own set of complexities, meaning that getting a
highly experienced motorcycle crash lawyer on board as soon as possible
following the accident is a good idea. A knowledgeable attorney will understand
the negative perceptions many people have regarding motorcyclists and can
combat that stereotype right from the beginning. Your bike accident attorney
will also understand the statute of limitations in Texas and will ensure your
right of recovery is preserved. If you
are the victim of a motorcycle accident with serious injuries you may have a
stack of medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. An experienced
motorcycle injury attorney will fight for equitable compensation for your
injuries and damages. Many motorcycle accident victims will spend the remainder
of their life with a disability which has changed their day-to-day existence
forever. Don’t face such an uncertain future on your own.
