Motorcycle riders are far more vulnerable than occupants of other vehicles, and accidents often result in devastating injuries. At Burkett Law Firm, we understand how life-altering a motorcycle accident can be.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Alice, we are here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Motorcycle Accidents in Alice Are Particularly Dangerous
Alice’s scenic highways and bustling streets can be inviting and dangerous for motorcyclists. Unlike drivers in enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists lack the structural protection of a car, making them more susceptible to serious injuries.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 22 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled.
The risks are even more pronounced in Texas, where more than 500 motorcyclists lose their lives annually. In 2022 alone, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported over 8,000 motorcycle crashes across the state, with a significant portion occurring in rural and suburban areas like Alice.
These numbers highlight the critical need for increased safety awareness and legal representation for motorcyclists in our community.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Alice
Motorcycle accidents in Alice occur for various reasons, involving negligence by other drivers. Our experience as a top-rated accident attorney in Alice has shown us that the following factors frequently contribute to crashes:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted often fail to notice motorcyclists.
- Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction times, making it difficult for drivers to avoid a collision.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug impairment contribute to a significant percentage of motorcycle accidents in Texas.
- Lane Changes: Drivers who fail to check their blind spots can sideswipe motorcycles, leading to severe injuries.
Holding negligent drivers accountable is critical in preventing these accidents and ensuring justice for injured motorcyclists.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of physical protection. At Burkett Law Firm, we’ve helped clients recover compensation for a range of serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and severe lacerations
- Internal organ damage
- Amputations
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care. The financial burden can be overwhelming, so working with a skilled motorcycle wreck attorney in Alice is crucial to pursuing maximum compensation.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Alice
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, the steps you take in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. We recommend the following:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seeing a doctor is essential, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Call Law Enforcement: Filing a police report provides an official record of the accident, which can be crucial for your case.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your motorcycle. Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. Let us handle all communications to protect your rights.
- Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You: The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case.
How Texas Law Protects Motorcycle Accident Victims
Texas law allows injured motorcyclists to pursue compensation for their losses through a personal injury claim. As your Alice motorcycle accident lawyer, we will help you understand your rights under Texas law and navigate the complexities of the legal process.
- Comparative Fault: Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means you can recover compensation if you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation.
- Helmet Laws: While Texas law requires motorcyclists under 21 to wear helmets, those over 21 may choose not to if they meet certain insurance or training requirements. However, not wearing a helmet can impact your case, especially if you suffer head injuries.
The Compensation You Deserve
- Medical Expenses: This includes past, present, and future medical bills related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, we will fight to recover compensation for your lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and diminished quality of life, are often a significant part of motorcycle accident claims.
- Property Damage: We’ll ensure you are compensated for the repair or replacement of your motorcycle.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving egregious negligence or intentional misconduct, the court may award punitive damages to deter similar behavior.
Why Choose Burkett Law Firm?
When searching for a motorcycle accident lawyer near you, it is important to choose a firm with the experience, resources, and dedication needed to achieve results. At Burkett Law Firm, we have a proven track record of success representing motorcycle accident victims in Alice and throughout Texas. Our approach is centered on personalized attention and aggressive advocacy.
We take the time to understand your case’s unique aspects and work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in court, our team is committed to achieving your best possible outcome.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t face the legal and financial challenges alone. Let our team at Burkett Law Firm guide you through the process and fight for the justice you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a top-rated accident attorney in Alice. We’re here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and provide the skilled representation you need to move forward.
Together, we’ll work to secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.