In Austin, our warm weather is perfect for motorcyclists to cruise around in. Riding through the open air can be freeing, especially when it’s warm because you can ride to cool off. Even though motorcycles are intended to be fun, they can also be dangerous. If a rider or another driver are negligent and cause a wreck, you could use the help of our Austin, TX motorcycle accident lawyer.
At Buckingham Barrera Vega Law Firm, we understand why you might want to ride your motorbike around Austin, Texas, and the rest of the nation. However, you are more exposed and vulnerable while on a motorcycle, which can lead to serious injuries in the event of a wreck. That’s why our attorneys are here to help you when your protective clothing and helmet weren’t enough to keep you safe.
Motorcycle Laws in Austin, Texas
Before you mount your motorbike, or even after you’ve been in a collision on your bike, it’s important to know the state and local laws surrounding motorcycles. That way, you know that you’re following the rules while riding, and can ensure that you’re not at fault if you get into an accident. Let’s take a look at some of the most prevalent and essential motorcycle laws in Texas.
The first law you should know is whether or not you need to wear a helmet. In Texas, you must wear a helmet if you are under the age of 21. However, being over 21 isn’t the only reason you might not have to wear a helmet while riding—you also need to meet other requirements.
In order to legally not have to wear a helmet on a motorcycle, you must have taken an approved Motorcycle Operator Training Course or have medical insurance coverage of at least $10,000. Passengers must also meet these requirements.
While it’s not in the law, you should also wear eye protection and protective clothing when you’re on your motorcycle. Helmets, eye protection, and proper clothing can all keep you from sustaining more serious injuries if a crash occurs, which you never know when one might happen.
As in most states, motorcyclists are prohibited from lane splitting. This is when other traffic is stopped or stop and go, and motorcycles weave in between the stopped or slowed cars. While this can reduce the amount of rear-end collisions that motorcyclists can get into from stop and go traffic, it’s also dangerous if drivers of regular vehicles don’t see the moving bikes. That’s why it’s illegal in Texas.
If you’re still not sure about the laws you need to follow in Texas, or if you want to make sure you weren’t breaking the law at the time of your collision, you can speak with our Austin, TX motorcycle accident lawyer. We’ll be able to answer your questions and start building your case.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Wrecks in Austin
Even if you’re following the rules of the road and being safe on your motorcycle, you are still inherently more at risk in the event of an accident. One of the biggest appeals of a motorcycle is the most dangerous aspect when it comes to collisions, which is being in the open air. Regular vehicles offer the protection of having metal, windshields, and airbags, while motorcycles don’t.
That’s why motorcyclists are typically more vigilant while they’re driving. When drivers of passenger vehicles aren’t as vigilant on the road, they can cause accidents. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle wrecks that can happen in Austin:
- Left Turns
- Distracted Drivers
- Drunk Drivers
- Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs
- Bad Roads
- Inexperienced Riders
- Speeding
- Riding Where Not Permitted
All of these errors can lead to a driver losing control and crashing into a motorcyclist. Once your attorney looks into the cause of your accident, they can start determining fault. This can be complicated because Texas follows a modified comparative negligence statute called proportionate responsibility. This means that your compensation will depend on how much you contributed to the accident happening.
This is why it’s so important for motorcyclists to follow the laws, pay attention to the road, and be as safe as possible while they’re riding—that way, they’re not at fault for the collision in any way and can fully recover what they’re owed. An Austin, TX motorcycle accident attorney can help you determine the cause of your wreck and who was at fault.
Injuries You Could Incur from a Motorcycle Wreck
As mentioned above, the injuries that you could sustain from a motorcycle accident can be catastrophic, even if you’re following all of the laws and wearing the proper safety equipment. Here are some of the injuries that you might have suffered as a result of your collision while riding your motorbike:
- Bruises
- Cuts
- Road Rash
- Burns
- Fractures
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Neck and Back Injuries
- Internal Organ Damage
- Amputations
- Crushing Injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
Sometimes the harm caused is milder, but other times it is severe and causes life-changing damage. When you’ve been hurt enough to keep you out of work, you could struggle to make ends meet. Not only do you have to deal with your injuries and trying to heal from them, but you could also be struggling with the financial burdens that you’ve incurred as well.
Medical bills can quickly start to pile up, and when your injuries are catastrophic, there may not be an end in sight. You might not know when you’ll be able to return to work and how many more wages you’ll miss out on. You still need to pay for all of your regular bills on top of that and support yourself and your family, which is why you deserve compensation for your injuries.
When you weren’t the person who caused this traumatic incident, you can financially recover from the damages you’ve incurred. Our Austin, TX motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the process so that you can get full and fair compensation for what you’ve been through.
Buckingham Barrera Vega Law Firm Is Here to Represent You
You shouldn’t have to go through the fallout of a motorcycle wreck on your own. It can feel isolating after the physical, emotional, and financial damages that you suffered, and as a result, you might feel too vulnerable and intimidated to take legal action. That’s where Buckingham Barrera Vega Law Firm comes in.
Our Austin, TX motorcycle accident attorneys have experience fighting for clients who have suffered unthinkable damages in their wrecks. We know how to handle your case with care and consideration so that you feel supported and protected throughout the entire process. Reach out to our office today so we can meet for your free consultation.
