Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Dallas

When you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. At Ax Injury Law, our Dallas motorcycle accident injury legal team understands the unique challenges that victims face. As a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney in Dallas, Baxter Banowsky will fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Whether you’re dealing with an insurance adjuster or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit, our motorcycle accident law firm has the expertise to guide you through the legal process.

The aftermath of a motorcycle crash can leave victims feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their future. Medical bills begin to mount, missed work leads to lost income, and insurance companies often pressure victims to accept quick settlements that may not cover the full extent of their damages.

Baxter Banowsky has decades of experience throughout Dallas and surrounding areas. Ax Injury Law knows how to identify all potential sources of compensation and build strong cases that protect our clients’ rights while maximizing their recovery.

Contact the Ax Injury Law today at 844-344-HURT to schedule your free consultation. We will help you get the compensation you deserve.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

After a motorcycle crash or car accident, victims often face mounting medical bills and lost wages.

Under Texas law, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Immediate and long-term medical treatment
  • Lost income and future earning capacity
  • Property damage to your motorcycle
  • Pain and suffering
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Mental anguish

Insurance companies often try to minimize motorcycle accident claims, but as a motorcycle accident attorney in Dallas, Baxter Banowsky knows how to negotiate with an insurance adjuster to secure the compensation you deserve. If the auto insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your motorcycle accident case to court.

What To Do Immediately After a Texas Motorcycle Accident

The actions you take following a motorcycle collision can significantly impact your injury claim. Here’s what to do:

  • Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor
  • Document the scene with photos and videos
  • Collect contact information from witnesses
  • Report the accident to your health insurance and auto insurance company
motorcycle accident serious injuries
  • Do not provide recorded statements to an insurance agent
  • Contact a Dallas motorcycle accident attorney

Remember, some serious injuries may not be immediately apparent. Traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries can develop or worsen over time, making prompt medical treatment crucial.

How Long Do I Have To File an Injury Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Crash in Texas?

motorcycle accident two years

Under Texas motorcycle laws, you generally have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and waiting too long can jeopardize your right to compensation. Additionally, evidence may disappear, and witnesses’ memories may fade, making it harder to prove negligence in your motorcycle accident case.

Proving Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Claim

To succeed in a motorcycle accident lawsuit, your personal injury attorney must prove:

  • The negligent driver owed you a duty of care
  • They breached that duty
  • The breach caused your motorcycle accident
  • You suffered damages as a result

As a Dallas motorcycle accident lawyer, I gather evidence such as:

  • Police reports
  • Witness statements
  • Traffic camera footage
  • Medical records
  • Expert testimony
  • Accident reconstruction analysis

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding what causes motorcycle accidents and what motorcycle accidents common in Dallas are is crucial for both prevention and establishing liability. Common factors include:

Distracted Driving

Many motorcycle accidents result from car accidents where drivers fail to notice motorcycle riders due to texting or other distractions. Activities like eating, adjusting the radio, or using navigation systems can pull a driver’s attention away from the road at crucial moments. Even a few seconds of distracted driving can have devastating consequences, as motorcycles require drivers to be especially vigilant due to their smaller size and maneuverability.

Unsafe Lane Changes

Car accidents involving motorcycles often occur when drivers fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes. This dangerous behavior is particularly hazardous for motorcycle riders who may be traveling in adjacent lanes or attempting to pass safely. The smaller profile of motorcycles makes them harder to spot in mirrors alone, which is why drivers must physically turn their heads to check blind spots and maintain awareness of nearby motorcycle riders.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of fatal motorcycle crashes. When drivers exceed safe speeds, they have less time to respond to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions, putting motorcycle riders at particular risk. The impact force of a high-speed collision is especially dangerous for motorcyclists who lack the protective shell that car drivers enjoy, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities.

Poor Road Conditions

Hazardous road conditions can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders, even those who have completed a motorcycle safety course. Potholes, loose gravel, wet pavement, and debris in the road present significant challenges that can cause a motorcycle rider to lose control without warning. These conditions become even more treacherous at night or during inclement weather, when visibility is reduced and the margin for error becomes much smaller.

Drunk Driving
motorcycle accidents intoxicated drivers

Intoxicated drivers pose a serious threat to motorcycle safety and frequently cause catastrophic injuries. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and affect depth perception – all critical factors in avoiding collisions with motorcyclists. Statistics show that a significant percentage of fatal motorcycle crashes involve drivers under the influence, making it one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of motorcycle accidents.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accident victims often suffer severe injuries due to limited protection. Without the structural protection that cars provide, motorcyclists are directly exposed to the impact of collisions and road surfaces. The severity of these injuries often leads to extensive medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, and significant changes to victims’ quality of life. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

Head and Brain Injuries

Despite helmet laws, traumatic brain injuries remain a serious concern in motorcycle crashes. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe trauma that results in permanent cognitive impairment or personality changes. Even with proper safety equipment, the force of impact in a motorcycle accident can cause the brain to collide with the skull, leading to serious long-term complications that may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Spinal Injuries

A motorcycle wreck can result in devastating spinal cord injuries that lead to permanent disability. These injuries often affect multiple aspects of a victim’s life, from mobility to basic bodily functions. The high-impact nature of motorcycle accidents can cause vertebrae fractures, disc herniation, or complete spinal cord severance, potentially resulting in partial or full paralysis that requires lifelong care and substantial modifications to daily living.

Road Rash

When riders are thrown from their motorcycles, severe skin abrasions can require extensive medical treatment. What many people dismiss as minor scrapes can actually develop into serious infections, permanent scarring, and nerve damage. Road rash can be particularly severe when it penetrates multiple layers of skin, potentially requiring skin grafts and leaving victims vulnerable to dangerous complications if not properly treated.

Broken Bones

The impact in motorcycle accidents commonly leads to multiple fractures and other serious injury types. Broken bones in motorcycle accidents tend to be more complex than typical fractures, often involving multiple breakpoints or compound fractures that break through the skin. Recovery from these motorcycle accident injuries frequently requires surgical intervention, metal plates or screws, and extensive physical therapy to regain full functionality.

Internal Injuries
fallen motorcycle

Motorcycle accident victims may suffer internal bleeding and organ damage requiring immediate medical attention. The force of impact can cause severe trauma to vital organs, leading to life-threatening complications if not detected and treated promptly. Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent at the accident scene, emphasizing the importance of thorough medical evaluation after any motorcycle collision.

The Role of Insurance in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Understanding insurance coverage is crucial when dealing with motorcycle accidents, as it can significantly impact your ability to recover damages. Insurance policies can be complex, and multiple types of coverage may come into play after a motorcycle collision. Knowing how to navigate these various insurance aspects can make the difference between receiving fair compensation and being left with substantial financial burdens.

Personal Injury Protection

While personal injury protection (PIP) coverage isn’t required for motorcycles in Texas, it can provide valuable benefits after an accident. This type of coverage can help pay for immediate medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault in the accident. PIP can serve as a crucial safety net, particularly when dealing with insurance companies that may delay processing your motorcycle accident claim or when medical bills start piling up before a settlement is reached.

Liability Insurance

Understanding your liability insurance coverage is crucial when pursuing a personal injury claim. Texas law requires minimum liability coverage, but these limits may not be sufficient to cover the extensive damages often seen in these accidents. Insurance policies may also include uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which becomes vital if you’re hit by a driver with inadequate insurance or no insurance at all. It’s essential to review your policy carefully with the help of a Dallas motorcycle accident lawyer and consider additional coverage options to protect yourself fully.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

As an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Dallas, I know how to handle insurance companies that try to minimize your claim. Insurance agents often use various tactics to reduce settlement amounts, including questioning the severity of injuries or attempting to shift blame to the motorcycle rider. I understand these strategies and know how to counter them with solid evidence and expert testimony. Having skilled legal representation can prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of victims during their most vulnerable moments and ensure that all aspects of your damages are properly valued.

The Importance of Legal Representation

When you suffer serious injuries in a motorcycle accident in Dallas, having skilled legal representation can make a significant difference in your case outcome. Here’s why:

Experience Matters

An experienced personal injury lawyer understands how to effectively handle every aspect of your motorcycle accident case. Their expertise in navigating complex legal processes ensures that all documentation is filed correctly and deadlines are met, preventing costly procedural errors. Years of practice give them the skills needed to negotiate strategically with an insurance adjuster, knowing when to push back against lowball offers and when to leverage evidence for maximum effect.

They also bring valuable experience in calculating fair compensation, taking into account not just current medical bills and lost wages, but also future expenses, ongoing care needs, and intangible damages like pain and suffering. Furthermore, their ability to present compelling evidence, from accident reconstruction reports to expert testimony, can make the critical difference between a modest settlement and full compensation for your injuries.

No Upfront Legal Fees

We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless we win your case. This approach ensures that quality legal representation is accessible to all motorcycle accident victims, regardless of their financial situation. Our firm assumes all the financial risks of pursuing your claim, including investigation costs, expert witness fees, and court filing expenses, allowing you to focus on what matters most – your recovery. This commitment to contingency-based representation demonstrates our confidence in our ability to successfully handle your motorcycle accident case and secure the compensation you deserve.

Focus on Recovery

While you focus on your medical treatment and recovery, we handle all aspects of your accident claim. Our personal injury team manages all communication with insurance agents, medical providers, and opposing counsel, shielding you from the stress and pressure of legal proceedings. We understand that recovering from motorcycle accident injuries requires significant physical and emotional energy, which is why we ensure that every administrative and legal detail is handled professionally while you concentrate on healing and rebuilding your life.

motorcycle accident mid-way banner

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Dallas

What should I do if I’m injured in a motorcycle crash?

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, your first priority should be your safety and health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Once you’re safe, document the accident scene if possible, gather witness information, and contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. Many serious injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having proper documentation from the start can significantly strengthen your case. Remember not to make any statements to the insurance company before consulting with an attorney, as early statements could potentially harm your claim.

How do I know if I have a valid motorcycle accident case?

If your motorcycle wreck was caused by another party’s negligence, you likely have grounds for a case.

Common scenarios where you may have a valid claim include when your motorcycle accident was caused by:

  • A driver failing to yield right of way
  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Road hazards that should have been maintained
  • Vehicle defects

A qualified motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate the specific circumstances of your case during a free consultation and advise you on your legal options.

What compensation can I recover after being injured in a motorcycle accident?

The compensation available after being injured in a motorcycle accident typically includes:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost pay and reduced earning capacity
  • Property damage to your motorcycle
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Home modification expenses if needed
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

The exact amount depends on factors such as injury severity, long-term impact, and available insurance coverage. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help calculate the full value of your damages to ensure you seek appropriate compensation.

How long will my motorcycle accident case take to resolve?

The duration of a motorcycle wreck case varies depending on several factors:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The clarity of liability
  • The cooperation of the insurance company
  • Whether the case settles or goes to trial
  • The complexity of medical treatment needed

While some cases settle within months, others may take a year or longer, especially if litigation is necessary. Your motorcycle accident lawyer can give you a better timeline estimate based on your specific circumstances.

What if the insurance company offers me a quick settlement?

Be cautious of quick settlement offers from an insurance company after a motorcycle crash. Insurance agents often try to settle claims quickly and for less than their full value before victims understand the full extent of their injuries and damages.

It’s crucial to:

  • Have all injuries properly diagnosed
  • Understand your long-term prognosis
  • Consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer before accepting any offers
  • Calculate all current and future expenses
  • Document all accident-related losses

Remember, once you accept a settlement, you typically cannot seek additional compensation even if you discover more injuries later.

What if the driver who caused my motorcycle accident is uninsured?

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident caused by an uninsured driver, you may still have options for recovery:

  • Filing a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage
  • Pursuing compensation from other potentially liable parties
  • Investigating whether the driver has personal assets
  • Examining whether road conditions or vehicle defects contributed to the accident

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help identify all possible sources of compensation in these challenging situations.

How can a motorcycle accident lawyer help with my case?

A motorcycle accident lawyer provides crucial assistance by:

  • Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident
  • Gathering and preserving evidence
  • Handling all communication with the insurance company
  • Documenting all damages and injuries
  • Negotiating with insurance adjusters
  • Filing necessary legal paperwork
  • Representing you in court if needed
  • Consulting with expert witnesses
  • Ensuring compliance with legal deadlines
  • Protecting your rights throughout the process

The right attorney can significantly increase your chances of receiving just compensation while allowing you to focus on recovery.

What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle wreck?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you could recover $80,000. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help defend against unfair fault allegations and maximize your recovery.

How much does a motorcycle accident lawyer charge?

Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. The fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award. This arrangement allows injured victims to get quality legal representation without paying upfront costs. During your initial consultation, your attorney should clearly explain their fee structure and what expenses you might be responsible for.

What evidence is needed to prove my motorcycle accident case?

Strong evidence is crucial for a successful claim.

Important evidence includes:

  • Police accident reports
  • Photographs of the accident scene
  • Witness statements
  • Medical records and bills
  • Expert testimony
  • Video footage if available
  • Maintenance records
  • Weather and road condition reports
  • Income loss documentation
  • Insurance policy information

Your motorcycle accident lawyer will help collect and preserve all necessary evidence to support your claim.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

motorcycle accident and helmet

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident or car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Baxter Banowsky offers a free consultation and free case review to discuss your options.

As a Dallas motorcycle accident lawyer, Baxter Banowsky can help victims recover the compensation they deserve for their motorcycle injuries, property damage, and lost income. Ax Injury Law understands the complexities of personal injury claims and are committed to fighting for your rights.

Let us help you navigate the legal process of a motorcycle accident claim and secure the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing. Remember, time is crucial in personal injury cases, so don’t delay in seeking legal representation after your motorcycle accident or auto accident. We are ready to help you through every step of your injury claim. We pride ourselves on providing personalized attention to each client, ensuring that your unique circumstances and needs are fully addressed throughout the legal process.

From gathering crucial evidence and interviewing witnesses to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary, Ax Injury Law will handle every aspect of your case with the utmost professionalism and care. Don’t let the stress of dealing with insurance adjusters and mounting medical costs overwhelm you – let our experienced team shoulder these burdens while you concentrate on your recovery.

Contact us today at 844-344-HURT to schedule your free consultation with a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney in Dallas.