Riding a motorcycle can offer a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to match. But the open road also comes with its share of risks, and accidents can happen when you least expect them.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in La Porte, you may be facing not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial challenges. At the Houston-based firm of Johnson Garcia, we understand the unique difficulties that motorcycle accident victims encounter, and we are here to help.
Before we talk about how we’ll do that, though, let’s talk about some of the factors that make motorcycle accidents so common.
The personal injury lawyers at Johnson Garcia have been handling car, truck, and motorcycle accidents in Texas for over 35 years. While every case is unique, there are some patterns that start to emerge when you’ve been doing this as long as we have. Here are the key contributing factors we see that often lead to motorcycle accidents:
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, which can make it difficult for drivers to see them on the road. This lack of visibility is especially problematic in situations where other vehicles are changing lanes or turning at intersections, increasing the risk of collisions.
The rise of smartphones and other distractions has led to an increase in distracted driving incidents. When drivers are texting, checking their phones, or engaging in other distractions, they may not notice motorcycles sharing the road, creating hazardous situations for riders.
Poor road conditions can significantly impact motorcycle safety. Potholes, uneven surfaces, debris, and gravel can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, who rely on balance and stability. Such hazards can lead to loss of control, resulting in accidents.
Inclement weather can affect visibility and traction, making roads slippery and hazardous. Rain, fog, and strong winds pose significant challenges for motorcyclists, as these conditions can impair their ability to maneuver safely and react to other drivers.
Certain road features, like potholes, railroad tracks, and road construction, can pose unique risks for motorcyclists. These hazards often require quick reflexes and precise handling, which can be difficult in unexpected situations.
While riders cannot control the actions of others, it’s important to note that impaired driving — whether due to drugs, alcohol, or fatigue — significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. An intoxicated or drowsy driver may fail to see a motorcycle or misjudge the distance and speed, leading to serious collisions.
Motorcyclists often share the road with drivers who engage in aggressive behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or road rage. These actions create a hostile environment for riders and increase the risk of accidents.
Regardless of the reason for your accident, your La Porte motorcycle accident lawyer will work to reveal who should be held accountable. While liability is sometimes straightforward, it’s often more complicated than you’d expect.
Liability refers to the legal responsibility for the accident and its resulting damages. Several parties may be held accountable depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Here are some key entities that could be liable:
The most common source of liability in motorcycle accidents is other motorists. If a car or truck driver is negligent — whether through distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield, or driving under the influence — they can be held responsible for any resulting injuries or damages. It’s essential to gather evidence, such as witness statements and police reports, to establish the other driver’s fault.
If a motorcycle accident is caused by a defect in the motorcycle itself, the manufacturer may be liable. This could include issues related to faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or design flaws that compromise safety. In such cases, it’s crucial to investigate the motorcycle’s condition and any potential manufacturing defects that contributed to the accident.
Similar to manufacturers, suppliers of motorcycle parts can also be held liable if their products are found to be defective or improperly installed. If a faulty part contributed to the accident, the supplier may share responsibility alongside the motorcycle manufacturer.
In some instances, local or state government agencies may bear responsibility for accidents caused by poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or a lack of proper maintenance. If a road hazard contributed to the accident, it may be possible to hold the responsible authority accountable for failing to maintain safe road conditions.
While the focus is often on other motorists, it’s important to note that riders themselves may also share some responsibility. If a rider was engaging in risky behaviors—such as riding without a valid license, lacking appropriate safety gear, or ignoring traffic laws—this could impact liability assessments. However, this does not absolve other parties of their responsibility.
Once liability is established, your lawyer will work to determine the damages in the case. This is the compensation you are owed for what you went through. It goes beyond paying for your medical and repair bills, though. Let’s take a closer look at damages now.
When involved in a motorcycle accident, understanding the types of damages you may be entitled to is essential for seeking compensation for your losses. Damages refer to the monetary compensation awarded to victims to cover various expenses and losses resulting from the accident. They can be categorized into three main types.
Economic damages are the most straightforward to quantify, as they encompass tangible financial losses directly related to the accident. These damages typically include:
Non-economic damages address the intangible impacts of an accident that are more challenging to quantify but equally important. These damages may include:
Punitive damages are less common but can be awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, such as driving under the influence or engaging in intentional harm. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future, rather than simply compensate the victim.
It’s your motorcycle accident lawyer’s responsibility to pursue all of the damages you are owed to maximize your compensation, but there are certain steps you can take — and actions to avoid — to strengthen your case. Let’s take a look at some of those now.
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be daunting, but knowing the right steps to take—and the pitfalls to avoid—can significantly strengthen your case and help maximize your compensation. Here’s a guide to the dos and don’ts after a motorcycle accident.
with insurance adjusters or opposing parties.
By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve after a motorcycle accident. If you find yourself in this situation, though, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional legal assistance to guide you through the process.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in La Porte, don’t face the challenges of recovery alone. At Johnson Garcia, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that such accidents can take on riders and their families. Our dedicated team of motorcycle accident lawyers is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait — contact Johnson Garcia today for a free consultation.
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