Imagine a routine ride on your motorcycle turning into a life-altering event in the blink of an eye. The roar of an engine, the screech of tires, and then a sudden, jarring impact. Such scenarios are not just stories; they happen daily, leaving motorcycle accident victims to grapple with the aftermath while the at-fault party walks away unharmed.

Since the establishment of our law practice in 1979, Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., has steadfastly represented individuals affected by motorcycle accidents in Katy, Texas, safeguarding their rights with unwavering commitment. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle-related incident, our legal team of personal injury lawyers is poised to champion your cause.

Unburden yourself from the aftermath by reaching out to schedule a free consultation.

Motorcycle Accident

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. Recognizing these common causes is the first step toward prevention and safety on the road. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Katy have identified the key factors that contribute to these incidents:

Lack of Visibility: Motorcycles are smaller and can be harder to see, especially in a vehicle’s blind spot. A motorcycle crash often involves collisions with cars, trucks, pedestrians, and even fellow motorcyclists.
Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces are more dangerous for motorcycles.
Faulty Motorcycle Parts and Defects: Manufacturing defects or improper maintenance can lead to critical failures in motorcycle parts.
Speeding: Exceeding speed limits increases the likelihood of losing control of the motorcycle.
Driving Under the Influence: Drunk driving and/or driving under the influence of drugs can impair judgment and reaction times. Sobriety is crucial for the safety of riders and others on the road.
Weather Conditions: Rain, wind, and other conditions can impact a motorcycle’s performance.
Inexperienced Motorcycle Riders: Inexperience can lead to errors in judgment.
Left-Turn Accidents: Motorcycles are often hit by cars making left turns.

Understanding these causes and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, a Katy motorcycle accident lawyer from Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. is ready to listen to you and can provide you with the legal assistance and support you need during this trying time.

What Injuries Frequently Result From Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents, due to their severe impact and the vulnerability of riders, often result in serious injuries. The lack of an enclosed protective space means riders face a higher risk of fatal injuries. In fact, 12% of Texas traffic fatalities are composed of motorcycle crash deaths.

In fact, the rate of fatal injuries for motorcyclists is substantially higher than that for car occupants, with head injuries due to riders not wearing helmets being the leading cause of motorcycle fatalities. Understanding the common types of injuries can emphasize the critical need for protective gear and safe riding practices.

Cerebral trauma, including concussions and more severe brain injuries.
Vertebral and spinal cord trauma can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis.
Fractures often occur in the lower extremities, pelvis, arms, and ribs.
Cuts and abrasions, also known as “road rash,” can range from minor to severe.
Limb loss, resulting from catastrophic collisions or being pinned under vehicles.
Skin avulsion or degloving injuries, where the skin is torn from the body, are common injuries in sliding accidents.
And more, including thoracic trauma, internal organ injuries, and psychological trauma such as PTSD.

We never want to witness such traumatic and gruesome scenes, yet these types of accidents are an unfortunate reality. If you have suffered from a motorcycle accident, you need the help of an experienced Katy motorcycle accident attorney to handle your case with both care and compassion. When in need, reach out to Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. We’re here to provide you with the support and legal advice you need to move onto a better path to recovery.

Understanding Damages Recoverable with a Katy Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Katy, it’s important to understand the full spectrum of damages you may be entitled to. A skilled Katy motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the process of recovering both economic and non-economic damages, ensuring that you are fairly compensated for the losses and impacts you’ve endured.

Below is a breakdown of these damages to give you a clearer picture of what you can claim in motorcycle accident cases:

Economic Damages:

These are quantifiable financial losses resulting from the accident, including:

Medical expenses: Covers the cost of hospital stays, surgeries, medications, ongoing treatments, and other medical bills.
Lost wages: Compensation for the income lost due to inability to work following the accident.
Property damage: Includes repairs or replacement costs for your motorcycle and other personal property damaged in the crash.
Rehabilitation costs: Expenses for physical therapy and other rehabilitation services needed for recovery.

Non-Economic Damages:

These refer to the intangible losses suffered by the victim, such as:

Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Emotional distress: Recognizes the psychological impact of the accident, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensates for the diminished quality of life due to injuries or disabilities resulting from the accident.
Loss of consortium: Addresses the impact on the victim’s relationships with their spouse or family.

Motorcycle Safety Tips to Navigate Texas Roads Lawfully and Securely

Motorcycling in Texas offers a sense of freedom, but the responsibility to ride safely and within the law comes with that freedom. Adhering to Texas motorcycle laws keeps you compliant and can save lives. Here are essential safety tips for motorcyclists.

Always Wear a Helmet

Did you know that there were 562 motorcyclists killed in 2022 on Texas roads? Their ages ranged from ages 14 to 80. Of those killed, thirty-nine percent were not wearing helmets. While Texas law allows certain exemptions for riders over 21, wearing a helmet is proven to reduce the risk of head injuries significantly and has about a 40% effectiveness rate in preventing death. That’s 88 Texas lives that could have been saved if they had all worn helmets. The law mandates helmet use for riders under 21 and older riders who haven’t completed a safety course or lack medical insurance. Prioritize your safety by wearing a helmet that meets safety standards adopted by the department.

Complete a Motorcycle Safety Course

Completing a state-approved motorcycle operator training course is a smart way to exempt yourself from mandatory helmet laws and possibly equips you with valuable riding skills. Education is a rider’s first line of defense against common road hazards.

Stay Visible

Wear bright clothing, use reflective gear, and always ensure your motorcycle lights are functioning properly to increase your visibility to other road users. Remember, being seen is as crucial as seeing.

Adhere to Speed Limits

Speeding is a leading cause of accidents. Always observe the posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions and traffic. High speeds also contribute to the severity of an accident.

Practice Defensive Driving

Anticipate the actions of other drivers, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared to react to potential dangers. Defensive driving is key to preventing accidents.

Check Road and Weather Conditions

Before setting out, check the local weather and traffic reports. Wet or icy conditions can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists.

Maintain Your Motorcycle

Regular maintenance is crucial. Before each ride, ensure your motorcycle is in good working order. Check tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels to prevent accidents caused by equipment failure.

Use Proper Safety Gear

Alongside helmets, wearing appropriate safety gear like helmets, gloves, jackets, pants, and boots can protect you from severe injuries during a fall or collision.

Respect Alcohol Laws

Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impairment, especially while drunk driving, can greatly increase the chance of a motor vehicle accident. Also, it’s strictly against the law.

Riding a motorcycle demands constant attention and adherence to safety practices. By following these tips and respecting Texas laws, you can enjoy the ride while minimizing the risk to yourself and others on the road.

Why Choose Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. for Your Motorcycle Accident in Katy, TX?

Sharon Simmons-Cantrell and Christopher Fletcher Our legal professionals have the knowledge and acumen to thoroughly investigate your incident and fight for your rights. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Katy are adept at navigating the intricacies of Texas statutes of limitations and approach every case personally and thoughtfully, ensuring our clients’ interests are vigorously defended.

We are acutely aware of a motorcycle accident’s profound impact on all aspects of one’s life. Our lawyers have a wealth of experience assisting clients who have sustained significant injuries, including traumatic amputation and wrongful death, in their pursuit of justice and appropriate compensation under the law.

With Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., you receive:

Dedicated and meticulous representation from our skilled Katy motorcycle lawyers.
Access to substantial financial and technological resources to build a robust case.
Expert consultation from top-tier accident reconstruction and biomechanics experts, particularly for severe injuries from motorcycle incidents.

Motorcycle mishaps occur daily in Katy, and ensuring local riders’ welfare is paramount to us. Contact our personal injury attorneys today for a no-cost case evaluation at our law office.

Connect With a Katy Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me at Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. Today

Simmons & Fletcher, P.C. champions the cause of motorcyclists throughout Texas, operating from our offices in Houston, Austin, and Dallas. Our legacy of over four decades stands as a testament to our commitment to motorcycle culture in the Lone Star State.

Should you or someone you love be impacted by a motorcycle accident, we invite you to reach out to our legal team in Katy, Texas. We offer a case evaluation at no charge and without obligation to determine if someone else might be wholly or partially accountable. Contact us today for your free case review.

Serving Katy

Simmons & Fletcher, P.C., is located on the Katy Freeway near Beltway 8. We offer service to Katy, Texas, Addicks, Barker, Cinco Ranch, Park Row, Katy Mills, Fulshear, Cross Creek Ranch, Pine Lakes, Whispering Lakes, Woodcreek Reserve, Pine Oak Village, Firethorne, Silver Ranch, Marshall Oaks, Falcon Ranch, Brookshire, Nottingham Country, Lakes of Bridgewater, Sundown Glen, Katy Prairie, Park Ten, and Williamsburg Colony.

FAQ's

Is Litigation Feasible When Deemed at Fault in a Police Report?

Indeed, it is not uncommon for law enforcement reports to attribute fault, in part or entirety, to the motorcyclist. However, such documentation is not decisive in legal proceedings. If you are partially at fault, you can still make a recovery so long as you are not more than 50% responsible.

Is There a Time Limit to File a Claim?

We recognize that the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and the idea of filing a claim may be daunting. In Texas, statutes of limitations exist, and exceeding these time frames can invalidate your claim. That is why taking prompt legal action is important to avoid your personal injury claim from being dismissed.

Can I Obtain Damages for Medical Expenses After a Motorcycle Accident?

A personal injury claim typically includes economic and non-economic damages, including coverage for medical expenses. However, your eligibility for damages depends on the specifics of your situation and the details of your accident. For a comprehensive review of your case and to discuss your legal options, contact a Katy motorcycle accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm today for a free consultation.