Auto and Motorcycle Accident FAQs By Jackson Reed on May 20, 2022

Motorcycle helmet in the roadEach year, automobile accidents result in millions of personal injuries and billions of dollars in financial losses. Some of the most damaging collisions involve motorcycles. Motorcycles do not provide riders with a protective shell, nor do they offer other common safety features, so accident injuries can be catastrophic.

Following a motorcycle accident, victims often have questions about what steps to take, and how they can be compensated for their losses. Here, the motorcycle accident attorneys at Reed & Terry, LLP, answer auto and motorcycle accident FAQs to provide drivers in the Sugar Land, TX, Katy, TX, and Richmond, TX, area with important collision information.

What Should I Do After an Accident?

The steps taken in the immediate aftermath of an auto or motorcycle accident can have a huge impact on how liability is established and how accident damages are settled. First and foremost, it is essential that accident victims seek medical attention for any potential injuries. If injuries are not severe and it is possible to gather evidence from the accident scene, drivers or motorcyle riders should take the following steps:

  • Exchange contact information, insurance information, and driver’s license info with other involved drivers
  • Collect contact information from any accident witnesses
  • Take photos of the accident, including the surrounding area, property damage, and any injuries
  • File a report with the police (share accident details, but refrain from admitting fault for the crash)

Am I Due Compensation for Accident Damages?

One of the most common questions that people have following an accident is whether or not they are due compensation for accident damages. If another person or party is found liable for the crash, they should be held accountable for all losses related to the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Even if a driver is found partially liable for a crash, Texas’ “proportionate responsibility” concept allows accident victims to pursue compensation for damages from another liable driver, provided that driver shares a greater proportion of fault for the crash.

Can I Collect Compensation for Accident Damages If I Wasn’t Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet?

Texas law requires all motorcycle riders under the age of 21 to wear a motorcycle helmet. Certain riders over the age of 21 may be able to legally ride without a helmet if they meet an eligible helmet exemption. If a rider is illegally riding a motorcycle without a helmet at the time of a crash, they may still be able to hold liable parties accountable for accident damages. However, the amount of damages awarded may be lessened if the lack of a motorcycle helmet is found to have contributed to the severity of injuries.

Can I Collect Compensation If I Was Lane Splitting at the Time of the Accident?

Lane splitting, or riding between two lanes of traffic, is not legal in the state of Texas. Although a motorcyclist can be penalized for lane splitting, they may still be owed compensation if the reckless or negligent actions of another driver caused the collision. For instance, if a driver swerved into another lane of traffic or made an unsafe lane change. As with the helmet issue, injured parties may receive less compensation if lane splitting is found to have contributed to the accident.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

Accident liability issues can be complex, so we always recommend that drivers and motorcyclists work with a car accident attorney after a crash. Knowledgeable car accident lawyers have an understanding of motor vehicle regulations and are likely to get individuals a significantly higher settlement than that which would be offered by an insurance company.

Schedule a Case Review

If you have been involved in an auto or motorcycle accident and have questions about liability and compensation for accident damages, the lawyers at Reed & Terry, LLP, would be happy to provide you with more information. To schedule a free case review, send us a message online or call (281) 491-5000 at your earliest convenience.

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Reed & Terry, LLP

Reed & Terry, LLP

At Reed & Terry, LLP, our personal injury attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience providing high-quality representation to clients throughout Texas. Our firm is proudly affiliated with prestigious organizations, including:

  • American Association for Justice
  • American Bar Association
  • Houston Trial Lawyers Association
  • Texas Trial Lawyers Association

Schedule your free consultation now by contacting us online or calling (281) 491-5008

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