Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Hit by a car while riding a motorcycle? Contact the Adley Law Firm today

Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Serving All of Texas

Motorcycle accidents can happen anywhere in the Lone Star State, from the busy urban streets of Houston and Dallas to the open highways near San Antonio and Austin, and even on rural roads in the Rio Grande Valley. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash in Texas, you need an experienced advocate on your side. The Adley Law Firm has a proven track record of helping motorcycle accident victims across Texas. Our team understands the complexities of Texas traffic laws and the unique challenges motorcyclists face on our roads. We are ready to fight for your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve, no matter where your accident occurred.

With our firm’s reach across the entire state, we proudly serve clients from major cities like Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso to communities in West Texas and South Texas (including the Rio Grande Valley). Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries, and victims may be overwhelmed dealing with medical treatment, financial strain, and insurance hassles. At Adley Law Firm, we make it our mission to ease that burden. Our lawyers are compassionate, knowledgeable, and tenacious when it comes to holding negligent drivers accountable. Best of all, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Wherever you are in Texas, our bilingual team (English & Spanish) is ready to help.

Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas
Serious Injuries from Texas Motorcycle Accidents
Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Texas Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Texas Motorcycle Accident FAQ
Get a Free Consultation

Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

Motorcycle crashes in Texas stem from a variety of factors, often related to driver negligence or challenging road conditions. Understanding what caused your accident is crucial for determining liability. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents across Texas:

Failure to Yield at Intersections: Many motorcycle collisions occur when other drivers fail to yield the right-of-way. A classic example is a car or truck turning left at an intersection without seeing an oncoming motorcycle. These intersection accidents are especially common in city traffic – safety officials estimate roughly one-third of fatal motorcycle crashes in Texas happen in or around intersections. When a driver ignores a stop sign, red light, or fails to yield on a left turn, the motorcyclist in their path can pay the price.
Distracted Driving: Distracted drivers are a danger to everyone on the road, but motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to drivers who aren’t paying attention, especially when motorcycles are rear-ended at intersections. Texting while driving, fiddling with a navigation system, or any activity that takes a driver’s eyes off the road can result in a serious collision. A driver who is not actively looking for motorcycles can easily overlook a bike, especially in a blind spot or when changing lanes. In heavy traffic on Texas highways (like I-35 in Dallas or I-10 in Houston), a moment of distraction can lead to a devastating crash involving a motorcyclist.
Speeding and Reckless Driving: High speeds greatly increase the severity of any crash and reduce the time available to react. Unfortunately, Texas has a prevalence of drivers who speed or drive aggressively. Whether it’s a driver racing to beat a light in downtown Austin or a motorist speeding down a rural highway in West Texas, excessive speed can be deadly. For motorcyclists, who lack a protective metal cage, a collision at high speed often means catastrophic injuries. Reckless behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, or street racing further endanger riders on the road.
Driving Under the Influence: Drunk driving and drug-impaired driving continue to be leading causes of crashes in Texas. Impaired drivers have poor judgment and slowed reflexes, making them prone to collide with motorcycles that they might otherwise have seen. Alcohol is a factor in a significant portion of serious motorcycle accidents – by some reports, about 30% of fatal motorcycle crashes involve a rider or driver with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit. When a car driver is intoxicated, they may drift between lanes, ignore traffic signals, or fail to notice a motorcyclist in time to avoid a tragedy.
Hazardous Road Conditions: Motorcycles are more sensitive to road conditions than four-wheeled vehicles. Potholes, loose gravel, slick pavement from rain, and debris on the roadway can all cause a motorcyclist to lose control. While these hazards might just cause a jolt or flat tire for a car, they can be deadly for someone on a bike. Poor road design or lack of proper signage can also contribute to accidents. For example, a sharp curve on a country road in the Hill Country or sudden heavy rainfall in South Texas can catch a rider off guard. In some cases, liability may extend beyond another driver – for instance, a construction company that left debris on the road or a municipality that failed to fix a dangerous road defect could be partly to blame.

Every motorcycle accident has its own story. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to pinpoint exactly how your crash happened and who should be held responsible. We obtain police reports, interview witnesses, and, if necessary, work with accident reconstruction experts to build a clear picture of the events leading up to your wreck. Whether your accident was caused by a careless driver or other factors, we will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable under Texas law.

Serious Injuries from Texas Motorcycle Accidents

Because motorcyclists have little protection apart from a helmet and maybe protective clothing, the injuries from a motorcycle crash tend to be severe. Our legal team has helped clients coping with a wide range of injuries after motorcycle accidents. Some of the most serious motorcycle accident injuries we see in Texas include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and Head Trauma: Head injuries are one of the leading causes of death in motorcycle crashes. A violent impact can cause concussions, skull fractures, or severe brain damage. While wearing a DOT-approved helmet greatly reduces the risk, it doesn’t eliminate it – even helmeted riders can suffer TBIs in a bad crash. Survivors of brain injuries may experience long-term cognitive impairment, memory loss, personality changes, or other life-altering effects. The costs of a serious brain injury are immense, often requiring ongoing therapy and care.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. We have represented clients who suffered crushed or dislocated vertebrae in a motorcycle accident, leading to conditions like paraplegia or quadriplegia. A spinal cord injury often means permanent changes to mobility and sensation, along with a lifetime of medical needs. Even less severe back injuries (such as herniated discs or fractured vertebrae) can cause chronic pain and require surgeries and lengthy rehabilitation.
Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries: Fractures are extremely common in motorcycle wrecks. A rider’s legs are especially at risk – it’s very common to see broken legs, knees, or ankles because the bike often falls onto the rider. Arm, wrist, and shoulder fractures are also frequent as riders instinctively try to brace for impact. In high-impact crashes, complex breaks (like a shattered pelvis or multiple fractured ribs) can occur. These injuries might necessitate surgical repair (pins, plates, or screws), and recovery can take months. Some riders are left with lasting mobility issues or arthritis from the trauma.
Road Rash and Severe Lacerations: When a rider is thrown from the motorcycle and skids across asphalt, the friction can literally peel away skin and muscle – a painful injury known as road rash. Deep road rash and cuts can lead to infections, nerve damage, and significant scarring. In Texas, it’s not uncommon for riders to wear lighter clothing due to the heat, which can mean less protection during an accident. Severe cases of road rash may require wound care, skin grafts, and plastic surgery. Even beyond road rash, any severe lacerations (cuts) from metal, glass, or debris can cause major blood loss or permanent scars.
Internal Injuries: The blunt force trauma of a crash can damage internal organs without any outward sign. Internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or injuries to the liver, spleen, or kidneys can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. For example, a sharp blow to the abdomen can cause internal bleeding that isn’t obvious until the victim collapses later. Emergency medical evaluation after a motorcycle accident is critical for this reason – what feels like just bruising might hide a serious internal injury. Survivors of these injuries often face emergency surgeries and intensive care. Even after the immediate danger passes, organ damage can have lasting health implications.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, getting proper medical care is paramount. Always follow up with your healthcare providers, attend all recommended therapies, and keep records of your treatment. From a legal perspective, documenting your injuries and treatment helps us demonstrate the full extent of your damages. At Adley Law Firm, we often work with medical experts who can testify about your injuries, necessary future care, and how the injuries affect your daily life. We know that motorcycle injuries can be life-changing, and we are committed to securing the resources you need for your recovery and future.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims

A motorcycle accident can leave you facing significant expenses and losses. If another party was at fault for the crash, you have the right to seek financial compensation for those losses through a personal injury claim (or a wrongful death claim if you lost a loved one). The goal of a claim or lawsuit is to make you “whole” as much as possible by awarding monetary damages for both economic and non-economic losses. In a Texas motorcycle accident case, compensation may include:

Medical Bills and Future Medical Care: You can recover the cost of all medical treatment related to your injuries. This includes ambulance rides, emergency room care, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs), and rehabilitation services like physical or occupational therapy. If you will need ongoing or future care (for example, additional surgeries, long-term medications, or assistive devices like wheelchairs), those estimated future medical costs should also be covered as part of your compensation.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity: Serious injuries often force victims to miss work for weeks or months. Any wages or salary you lost due to the accident – including time spent at medical appointments or in recovery – can be claimed. If your injuries permanently limit your ability to work or advance in your career, you may also seek damages for lost earning capacity. This accounts for the income and benefits you likely would have earned in the future if the accident had not occurred. We may use economists or vocational experts to calculate these losses in cases of long-term disability.
Pain and Suffering: Accident compensation isn’t just about the bills you can count. Texas law also recognizes the intangible, yet very real, damages of physical pain and emotional suffering. This category compensates you for the physical pain from your injuries, as well as mental anguish, emotional distress, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life. For example, if you can no longer pursue hobbies you loved (like riding your motorcycle, sports, or playing with your kids) because of the injuries, that loss of quality of life is part of pain and suffering damages. There’s no fixed price on these, so having a skilled lawyer to argue for a fair amount is crucial.
Property Damage and Other Expenses: You are entitled to recover for damage to your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the crash. Repairing or replacing a motorcycle can be costly, and custom upgrades or gear (helmet, riding jacket, etc.) can also be claimed if they were destroyed. Additionally, any out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to the accident can be included. This might encompass rental vehicle costs while your bike was in the shop, the cost of towing your motorcycle from the scene, or even costs like hiring someone to help around the house if your injuries prevent you from doing chores.
Wrongful Death Damages (for Fatal Accidents): Tragically, many motorcycle accidents in Texas are fatal. If your spouse, parent, child, or other close family member was killed in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, your family can pursue a wrongful death claim. Damages in such cases can include funeral and burial expenses, loss of the deceased’s expected earnings and benefits, loss of companionship and emotional support, and the survivors’ mental anguish. While no amount of money can heal your grief, a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability for your family’s future and hold the responsible party accountable.
Punitive Damages (in Extreme Cases): In Texas, punitive damages (also called exemplary damages) can be awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was more than just negligent – for example, gross negligence or malicious wrongdoing. Punitive damages are not awarded in most routine accident cases, but consider a scenario where a severely intoxicated driver caused a high-speed crash that injured a motorcyclist. In such an extreme case, a jury might award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and send a message. While not every case qualifies, our attorneys will assess whether your case might be eligible for punitive damages and advocate for them if appropriate.

After a motorcycle accident, calculating the full extent of your damages is a complex task. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether you’ve accounted for every cost or loss – that’s our job. The Adley Law Firm will thoroughly evaluate all aspects of how the accident affected your life. We often collaborate with medical professionals, economists, and life care planners to determine the value of future medical needs or lost earning potential. Our goal is to maximize your compensation so that you have the financial means to recover and move forward after the accident. Remember, the insurance company for the at-fault driver will likely try to minimize your claim, but we will compile compelling evidence and negotiate forcefully on your behalf. If the insurer won’t offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for the justice you deserve.

Texas Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents remain a serious problem in Texas. To put the issue in perspective, here are some key statistics and facts about motorcycle crashes in our state:

Hundreds of motorcyclists are killed in Texas each year: In a typical recent year, more than 500 riders (operators and passengers) lost their lives in Texas motorcycle crashes, and several thousand more were injured. This averages out to roughly one to two motorcycle fatalities every single day in our state. These numbers underscore the importance of motorcycle safety and vigilant driving by everyone on the road.
Motorcyclists face a dramatically higher risk of death in a crash than drivers of cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), per vehicle mile traveled, motorcycle riders are over 25 times more likely to be killed in a traffic crash than occupants of passenger cars. The lack of structural protection means motorcyclists often bear the brunt of impact forces, leading to disproportionate fatalities.
Intersections are hotspots for crashes: Around one-third of fatal motorcycle accidents in Texas occur at intersections or are related to intersection scenarios. Intersections in busy cities like Houston or Dallas can be especially dangerous when drivers are making turns or rushing to beat traffic lights. This statistic highlights why it’s so important for drivers to look twice for motorcycles before turning or crossing through an intersection.
Impaired driving contributes to many deadly accidents: Driving under the influence is a factor in a large share of motorcycle wrecks. Alcohol and motorcycling are a deadly mix – whether it’s a drunk car driver who doesn’t see the motorcycle, or a motorcyclist riding after drinking, impairment vastly increases the risk of a crash.
Major cities see the highest number of crashes, but accidents happen statewide: Heavily populated areas naturally record more accidents – Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso consistently lead in motorcycle crashes and fatalities each year. However, serious motorcycle accidents are not confined to the big cities. Riders in smaller cities and rural areas (like the Panhandle or the Rio Grande Valley) also face dangers, sometimes compounded by high-speed rural roads and longer emergency response times. No matter where you ride in Texas, staying alert and defensive is critical.

Sources: Texas Department of Transportation and NHTSA data, among other traffic safety studies. These sobering statistics make it clear that motorcyclists in Texas face significant risks. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, you’re far from alone – and you have the right to seek accountability from those who caused your suffering. The Adley Law Firm is here to help injured riders understand their rights and pursue the compensation needed to rebuild their lives.

Texas Motorcycle Accident FAQ

Victims of motorcycle accidents often have many questions. Below, we address some frequently asked questions from clients across Texas. If you don’t see your question here or need personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.

Why do I need a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer?

Answer: After a motorcycle accident, you might be wondering if you can handle the insurance claim on your own. While it’s not a legal requirement to have a lawyer, having an experienced Texas motorcycle accident lawyer on your side can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. First, an attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence (like crash scene photos, police reports, witness statements, and expert analysis), and build a strong case demonstrating the other party’s fault. This is crucial because Texas is a comparative negligence state – the insurance company might try to pin some blame on you to reduce what they pay, and your lawyer will fight those tactics. Second, a lawyer who has handled many motorcycle cases will understand the true value of your claim, including all your current and future losses. Insurance companies often offer low settlements to unrepresented victims, hoping you’ll accept quick cash and waive your rights. We can negotiate aggressively with the insurers to seek a fair settlement that fully covers your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Finally, if the insurance company refuses to be reasonable, a lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf and take the case to court. At Adley Law Firm, we have the litigation experience to present your case to a Texas jury if that’s what it takes. In short, while you focus on healing, we focus on protecting your interests and maximizing your compensation.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured or fled the scene?

Answer: Being hit by an uninsured driver (or a hit-and-run driver who can’t be identified) is a scary situation, but you still have options. First, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own auto insurance policy, you can file a claim with your own insurer for your damages. UM coverage in Texas is designed for exactly these scenarios – it steps into the shoes of the at-fault driver’s insurance. Your insurance company should compensate you up to the limits of your UM/UIM policy for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc., just as if they were the liability insurer. However, don’t assume your insurer will automatically pay fully; they may still dispute the value of your claim, so having a lawyer represent you in a UM claim is wise. If the driver was caught but has no insurance or not enough insurance, we can also pursue a UIM (underinsured) claim similarly.

If you don’t have UM coverage (or even if you do), another avenue could be exploring the responsibility of other parties. For instance, if the crash happened because of a road hazard or a vehicle defect, there might be a case against a government entity or manufacturer. Those situations are complex but worth reviewing. Lastly, if it was a hit-and-run and the police identify the driver later, we can then pursue a normal claim against that driver. The bottom line is: even if the other driver had no insurance, you aren’t automatically out of luck. Our attorneys can help you navigate your insurance options and find any potential source of recovery so you’re not stuck bearing the financial burden of an accident that wasn’t your fault.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Answer: In Texas, riders over 21 are not required by law to wear a helmet if they have completed a motorcycle safety course or carry sufficient health insurance. So, not wearing a helmet at the time of your accident does not bar you from filing a claim. You can still pursue compensation from the at-fault driver for your injuries. However, the fact that you weren’t wearing a helmet could potentially complicate the case, especially if you suffered head or facial injuries. Texas follows a comparative negligence rule. The other side might argue that you were partly responsible for the severity of your injuries by choosing not to wear a helmet. If the case goes to trial, a jury could decide to reduce your compensation if they believe your lack of a helmet contributed to your injuries. That said, Texas law *generally does not allow* the simple fact of not wearing a helmet to be used as evidence of negligence (this is a protective rule for motorcyclists), but in practice, it sometimes becomes a point of contention in settlement talks or negotiations.

Our job as your attorneys would be to counter any argument that tries to shift blame onto you. We would emphasize that the cause of the accident was the other driver’s negligence – not your clothing or helmet choice – and that, had the other driver been careful, you wouldn’t have been injured at all. We might also bring in medical experts to show how your injuries would have occurred even with a helmet, depending on the circumstances. Bottom line: not wearing a helmet might be a discussion point, but it does not prevent you from recovering damages as long as the other party was at fault. We will fight to make sure you are not unfairly penalized for exercising your legal right to ride without a helmet.

Will my motorcycle accident case have to go to court?

Answer: Most motorcycle accident cases in Texas are resolved through settlements without a full trial, but every case is different. Generally, after we file a claim and present evidence of your damages, there will be a negotiation phase with the insurance company. In many instances, we can reach a fair settlement through negotiation or mediation, which means you receive compensation without having to step foot in a courtroom. We always strive to settle if it’s in your best interest because it’s faster and less stressful for you. However, we prepare every case as if it may go to trial. If the insurance company denies liability or offers much less than what your case is worth, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Once in litigation, a case can still settle at any point. In fact, many cases settle on the eve of trial or even during trial, as pressure increases for the defense to avoid a jury verdict. If your case does proceed all the way to a trial, rest assured that the Adley Law Firm will be ready. We have trial attorneys with experience presenting compelling arguments to juries. Going to court can sound intimidating, but we will guide you through the process, handle all the legal legwork, and stand by your side from start to finish. Whether through settlement or trial, our focus is on getting you the best possible result. Ultimately, the decision to accept a settlement or go to court is always yours – we will advise you of the pros and cons of each option as your case develops.

How long does it take to resolve a motorcycle accident case in Texas?

Answer: The timeline for a motorcycle accident claim can vary widely depending on the specifics. Some cases settle within a few months, while others might take a year or more, especially if a lawsuit and trial become necessary. In general, you should expect to devote several months at minimum to reach a settlement. Here’s a rough breakdown: In the beginning, a lot depends on your medical recovery. It’s often wise to wait until you have reached “maximum medical improvement” – or at least have a clear picture of your prognosis – before settling, so we know the full extent of your medical costs and how the injuries will affect you long term. This could take several months. During that time, we are gathering records and evidence. Once we present a demand to the insurance company, negotiations can take a few weeks to a couple of months, typically.

If a lawsuit is filed, the timeline extends. There’s a discovery phase (exchange of evidence, depositions, etc.) that can take many months. Courts in Texas are busy, so a trial date might be set a year or more after the lawsuit is filed. Of course, many cases settle before that trial date as pressure mounts. Every case is unique – for example, a case with clear liability and ample insurance coverage might settle quicker, whereas a case with disputed fault or very high damages might take longer because the stakes are higher. Throughout the process, our attorneys will keep you informed and try to move things along as efficiently as possible. We understand that you want closure and compensation promptly, and we do everything we can to avoid unnecessary delays. However, we also caution against rushing to settle too soon, because once you settle, you cannot ask for more later if you discover additional costs. Our aim is to resolve your case in a timely manner while also ensuring you receive the maximum compensation available for your situation.

Get a Free Consultation

An unexpected motorcycle accident can turn your life upside down. When you’re coping with injuries, medical appointments, and financial worries, dealing with legal matters can feel overwhelming. Let the Adley Law Firm step in and handle the legal fight for you. Our dedicated team has the experience, resources, and state-wide reach to take on the insurance companies and seek justice on your behalf. We treat our clients like family – with compassion, respect, and a relentless commitment to their well-being.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review the details of your motorcycle accident, answer any questions you have, and outline the next steps – all at no cost to you. You can call us toll-free at (713) 999-8669 to speak directly with our team. If you prefer, you can also send us a message online and we will get in touch promptly. We have staff fluent in both English and Spanish to assist you. Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront and absolutely no legal fees unless we win compensation for you. Wherever you are in Texas, if you need a trusted Texas motorcycle accident lawyer, the Adley Law Firm is ready to help. Let us fight for the financial recovery you need, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life after the accident.