Dallas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Pursuing Justice for Injured Motorcyclists in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road on your motorcycle. While taking your bike out for a spin can be freeing and fulfilling, it’s important to remember that motorcyclists are more exposed than other motorists on the road, making them more vulnerable in a crash. With approximately 1.3 motorcyclists killed every day on Texas roads, even the most experienced riders can find themselves in unexpected accidents, making it crucial to seek sound counsel from a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. 

At J. Alexander Law Firm, additional stress is the last thing you need after a wrongful injury. That’s why our Dallas motorcycle accident attorneys are committed to holding liable parties accountable for inflicting life-altering harm on the lives of motorcyclists and their families in Dallas. With a proven track record of results and over $10 million recovered for clients in DFW, you can trust our trial lawyers to protect your rights while advocating for the maximum compensation you deserve. We focus on thoroughly investigating each incident, utilizing accident reconstruction experts when necessary, to build solid arguments in favor of our clients.

Injured in a Dallas motorcycle accident? Don’t pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Call (214) 206-3264 to schedule a complimentary case evaluation!

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can happen for a wide range of reasons. Most of the time, these crashes occur due to errors made by other drivers, not motorcyclists. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include: 

• Distracted driving: Driving while texting, calling, eating, drinking, fiddling with the radio or temperature settings, or engaging in other distractions can make it challenging to notice motorcyclists on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. 
• Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol impairs judgment, making it difficult for motorists to judge the distance and speed of a motorcycle. 
• Traffic violations: Disregarding traffic laws leads to unsafe driving and endangers everyone on the road, especially motorcyclists, who are hard to spot. Common violations that lead to motorcycle crashes include running red lights, speeding, driving recklessly, illegal lane changes, and failure to yield. 
• Failure to yield on left turns: One of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents is when a driver makes a left-hand turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often misjudging its speed or simply not seeing it.
• Following too closely: Tailgating is dangerous for motorcyclists because they may need to stop suddenly. When drivers don't leave enough space, rear-end collisions can occur, which can be devastating for a motorcyclist.
• Changing lanes without checking blind spots: Motorcycles can easily be missed in a driver’s blind spots. Negligent drivers who fail to check their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes can sideswipe or cut off motorcyclists.
• Opening Car Doors Without Looking ("dooring"): When a parked car driver opens their door without checking for approaching motorcycles, they can cause a collision, especially in city traffic.
• Road hazards: While potholes, debris, and other hazards can be dangerous for any vehicle, poorly maintained roadways are especially hazardous to motorcycles, which only have two wheels to navigate unexpected obstacles or conditions.

Promoting road awareness and encouraging safe driving practices to prevent motorcycle accidents is crucial. Public education campaigns can significantly reduce such incidents by educating drivers about motorcyclists' challenges. Everyone sharing the road must be vigilant and respectful of others to minimize risks.

Understanding the Modified Comparative Negligence Rule in Texas

Texas follows the modified comparative negligence rule in injury lawsuits. This means that even if you are partially to blame for the accident, you can still seek compensation if you bear less than 51% of the fault. You won’t be eligible to recover damages if your share is more than half. 

If the court determines you to be partially at fault for the accident, your specific share of the fault will reduce the total damages. For example, if you are 10% at fault for a lawsuit totaling $100,000 in damages, you may only recover $90,000 in compensation (10% less than the original amount).  This rule underscores the importance of gathering ample evidence and presenting a robust case to minimize any attributed fault and optimize your compensation potential.

Can I File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit if I Wasn't Wearing a Helmet?

Under Texas law, all motorcyclists under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet. However, even lawful riders aged 21 and older can face challenges in court if they weren't wearing a helmet when the accident occurred. In some cases, insurance companies may attempt to pin undue blame on the victim to avoid a fair payout. This is why securing high-quality representation from a motorcycle accident attorney is critical, especially in lawsuits involving multiple liable parties.  Motorcyclists must understand their rights and the potential criticisms they may face when filing a lawsuit without wearing a helmet. Our attorneys can assist you in navigating these complexities to ensure a fair evaluation of your situation.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection between the rider and the surrounding road. Common injuries in motorcycle accidents include: 

• Road rash: For motorcyclists without high-quality protective gear, road rash is a widespread injury. It occurs when skin contacts the pavement, resulting in severe abrasions. While these injuries range from mild to severe, any road rash requires immediate medical attention to prevent dangerous infections and permanent scarring. 
• Amputation: Due to the lack of protection between a motorcyclist and the road, collisions with vehicles and heavy objects can result in the loss of limbs. This type of injury can have lifelong consequences and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Internal injuries: Motorcyclists have very little protection from the surrounding environment, making riders more susceptible to internal injuries after being ejected from their motorcycles in a crash. This can lead to devastating internal injuries, including organ damage and hemorrhaging due to blunt force trauma. 
• Spinal cord injuries: Motorcycle accident injuries can lead to spinal cord injuries and even permanent paralysis, resulting in lifelong pain, disabilities, and health challenges for many riders.  
• Broken bones and fractures: Injured motorcyclists commonly sustain broken bones and fractures due to their legs getting caught under the bike or using their arms and wrists to break their fall. This can lead to expensive surgeries, lengthy recovery periods, and even permanent disabilities for some riders. 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Even motorcyclists with helmets can sustain traumatic brain injuries in crashes. In a group of over 104,000 motorcyclists, the NHTSA determined that 21% of riders not wearing helmets and 15% of riders with helmets suffered traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, brain injuries were the cause of death in over half of fatal crashes.

High-impact collisions with other motor vehicles can result in significant harm to motorcyclists. While car collisions can also lead to serious injuries, motorcyclists are significantly more vulnerable. In many cases, the motorcyclist isn’t even to blame for the accident, making it crucial to know your rights and seek sound counsel from a motorcycle crash attorney as soon as possible after a crash. Understanding the psychological impacts, such as PTSD, often accompanying physical injuries, is essential for comprehensive treatment and recovery. Our approach ensures each client’s needs are fully addressed. 

Proving Liability in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit

In a motorcycle accident lawsuit, suffering an injury isn’t enough to recover damages. Proving liability is vital to recovering a fair settlement. That’s where a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney in Dallas can make all the difference. To recover damages, you must establish four key elements: 

1. The defendant owed you a duty of care. 
2. The defendant breached their duty by acting negligently. 
3. The defendant’s negligence directly caused your injuries.
4. You suffered compensatory harm (“damages”) as a result. 

In most cases, the opposing party’s insurance company has one goal: To protect its bottom line. Typically, insurance companies offer victims the lowest amount of money possible, making it crucial to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Dallas who can help you meet the standard of proof in your lawsuit by gathering evidence and negotiating with opposing counsel. If the insurer refuses to budge from a lowballed offer, your lawyer can take your lawsuit to trial if necessary to pursue fair compensation.  An effective legal strategy often involves collaborating with accident reconstruction specialists and medical professionals to present clear and compelling evidence that accurately reflects the seriousness of your injuries and the other party's fault.

Bias Against Injured Motorcyclists

One of the most pervasive challenges motorcyclists face is the prejudice they encounter from insurance companies, juries, and even law enforcement. Many assume motorcyclists are reckless or inherently dangerous drivers, even if the rider followed the law. This bias can influence how a lawsuit is handled, how fault is determined, and ultimately, how much compensation the motorcyclist receives.

Insurance companies may use this bias to argue that the motorcyclist was partially or fully responsible for the accident, even when the evidence doesn't support that claim.

Insurers often employ the following tactics to reduce or deny motorcycle accident claims:

• Lowball settlement offers: Insurers may offer quick settlements that don’t cover the full extent of the victim’s injuries and losses.
• Disputing medical treatment: Insurers often challenge the necessity or cost of medical treatments or claim that the motorcyclist's injuries were pre-existing.
• Delay tactics: Insurers may delay processing claims to frustrate victims, hoping they will settle for less or drop the lawsuit.

Moreover, motorcyclists often face an uphill battle in court, where they'll need to overcome this bias by presenting indisputable evidence of their innocence and responsible driving habits. Working with a skilled motorcycle crash attorney who understands these challenges and knows how to counteract bias effectively can significantly enhance the chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Essential Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Dallas

Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but prioritizing the proper steps can enhance your ability to protect your rights and pursue compensation. Here are essential actions to consider if you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Dallas:

First, seeking medical attention is imperative, even if injuries appear minor. Some injuries may not surface immediately, so comprehensive medical evaluations can ensure you receive the necessary treatment and create an official record of your injuries. After ensuring everyone’s safety, notify law enforcement to document the accident officially. A police report can be critical evidence in any legal proceedings or insurance claims.

Secondly, collect evidence at the scene. Use your phone to take pictures of your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, road conditions, and visible injuries. Gather contact information from witnesses, as their testimony can substantiate your account. Also, detailed records of any costs associated with the accident, such as medical bills and repair estimates, must be maintained.

Do I Need to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Dallas? 

Motorcycle accident lawsuits can be long and arduous, leading to additional stress for victims and their loved ones during their recovery period. While cutting costs by forgoing your right to legal representation may be tempting, hiring a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer is essential to hold responsible parties accountable and seek compensation for your injuries. Seeking high-quality representation can be advantageous for many reasons, including: 

• To cover costs: While hiring a lawyer may seem expensive, forgoing your right to a lawyer can cost you far more in the long run. The average motorcycle accident can cost thousands of dollars just for basic healthcare—a high price tag to get back on your feet after an accident that wasn’t your fault. Even if you were lucky enough to walk away from the motorcycle accident with minimal injuries, the road to recovery can still have life-altering consequences, leaving you unable to work while accruing medical bills and everyday living expenses. 
• To seek a fair settlement: While recovering some financial compensation without legal representation is possible, the chance of receiving a just settlement is very slim. Insurance companies have a reputation for taking advantage of plaintiffs and pushing lowballed settlements to avoid fair payouts, robbing you of the justice you deserve. A skilled lawyer can motivate opposing parties to take your lawsuit seriously while knowing your rights are safeguarded at every step. 
• To reduce stress: Recovering from an unexpected injury can leave victims in great pain and take a substantial toll on their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. By seeking sound counsel, you can minimize stress during your recovery. At the same time, your attorney takes the lead in the claims process, negotiations, and other legal matters related to your lawsuit, allowing you to focus on healing. 
• To Prove Fault: Being injured in a motorcycle crash isn’t sufficient to recover compensation. Your lawyer can improve your chance of obtaining a successful outcome by helping you navigate the legal complexities of your lawsuit, gathering evidence to establish negligence, and representing your best interests in litigation if your lawsuit goes to trial. A competent legal team will thoroughly investigate all aspects of the accident, consulting with experts when necessary to determine the exact causes and responsible parties involved. 
• To Win a Fair Settlement: While a modest settlement might cover immediate economic losses, you deserve full financial coverage for all losses incurred in the accident. Your lawyer can conduct an in-depth analysis of your lawsuit to identify responsible parties, calculate all available damages, and pursue maximum compensation by negotiating effectively on your behalf. 

How Dallas' Roadways Impact Motorcycle Safety

Dallas is known for its complex network of highways and roads, which can be intimidating for motorcyclists. Busy highways like Interstate 35 and the LBJ Freeway are major thoroughfares but come with their own challenges, such as heavy traffic, frequent road work, and variable speed limits. Understanding these aspects can help motorcyclists navigate more safely.

Additionally, Dallas’s climate can also influence road safety. Unexpected weather events like sudden rain can leave roads slick and hazardous, reducing traction for motorcycles. Urban areas with dense traffic also pose challenges, requiring heightened awareness and defensive driving techniques. With high temperatures in summer, motorcyclists should also be mindful of heat impacts on tires and road materials.

Contact Our Dallas Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today 

At J. Alexander Law Firm, our Dallas motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to serving our community by preventing greedy insurers from exploiting fellow Texans in need. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, consulting with a qualified attorney is paramount to recovering fair compensation. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Dallas are well-versed in personal injury law and have recovered millions of dollars for clients who were once in your shoes, giving you peace of mind that your rights are protected at every turn. When you partner with our firm, you’ll put years of experience in your corner while receiving personalized representation tailored to your unique circumstances. Our attorneys prioritize open communication, ensuring you are always informed and supported throughout the legal journey. 

Injured in a motorcycle crash in Dallas? Don't navigate this challenging time alone. Contact our experienced Dallas motorcycle accident lawyers and take the first step toward securing your future!

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Dallas

How Are Damages Calculated in a Motorcycle Accident?

Damages in a motorcycle accident lawsuit cover economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages account for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. Calculating these requires a thorough assessment of medical records, expert testimony, and an evaluation of the long-term impact on your lifestyle and well-being. Legal representation can assist in ensuring a comprehensive claim that accurately represents the full scope of your losses.

What If I Didn’t See Immediate Injuries After the Accident?

It is not uncommon for some injuries to manifest days or even weeks after a motorcycle accident. Internal injuries, whiplash, and soft tissue damage can go unnoticed initially. It's advisable to seek medical attention immediately after an accident, regardless of how you feel, to ensure prompt treatment. Documenting these findings is equally vital in supporting your injury claims if symptoms develop later, making timely medical evaluations and follow-ups essential.

Should I Accept the First Insurance Offer?

Insurance companies may offer quick settlements to minimize payouts. However, initial offers might not cover the full extent of your damages. It is often beneficial to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer who can evaluate the offer's fairness about your total losses. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company for a more accurate settlement representing your medical costs, ongoing treatment needs, and other compensatory expenses.