Not every fender-bender involving a motorbike in Houston requires the services of a motorcycle wreck attorney, but when you're dealing with injuries, damaged property, and insurance companies that are eager to settle quickly, knowing when to seek professional legal help can make all the difference on your road to recovery.
When to See a Motorcycle Wreck Attorney
Some of the key signs that indicate it's time to contact a motorcycle wreck attorney in Houston include the following:
You've Sustained Serious Injuries
If you were badly hurt in a Texas motorcycle accident (whether by suffering a spinal cord injury, internal organ damage, broken bones, a concussion or other head injury, or road rash that requires skin grafts), that’s a strong sign you need legal help.
These injuries are more common than you might think: More than 218,000 motorcyclists were treated in emergency rooms for crash injuries in 2022 alone.
Serious injuries mean you’ll be dealing with extensive medical care, rehabilitation, potential long-term care needs (six days, on average), and lengthy recovery periods, effectively forfeiting your paychecks when you need them most.
Insurance Companies Are Playing Hardball
Whether an insurer is giving you the runaround by not returning your calls, attempting to shift blame for the accident onto you, delaying payment, pressuring you to accept a quick settlement, or denying your claim despite clear liability, all of these behaviors are clear red flags.
Insurance adjusters may act friendly, but their job is to save their companies money. They might deny your motorcycle accident claim by saying you were at fault or that your injuries aren’t serious. That, or they may hope you accept a far lower settlement offer than you truly deserve.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney knows how to deal with insurance adjusters, negotiate a fair settlement, and file a lawsuit if needed.
Fault Is Being Disputed
If fault is being contested following the accident, you should absolutely consult a motorcycle wreck lawyer. If you’re found more than 50% at fault for any incident in Texas, you could be barred from any recovery, so don’t risk it.
Proving what happened often requires gathering and preserving evidence (crash scene photos, skid mark analysis), interviewing witnesses before memories fade, obtaining traffic camera footage if available, establishing a clear timeline of events, and accident reconstruction.
Attorneys experienced in motorcycle accident cases know how to investigate and build a compelling case that shows who was negligent.
Mounting Financial Pressure
Beyond the physical and emotional toll of motorcycle accidents, they often create significant financial strain in the following ways:
- Expensive emergency room bills
- Ongoing treatment costs
- Medication expenses
- Physical therapy fees
- Lost wages during recovery
- Motorcycle repair or replacement costs
- Modified transportation needs
A motorcycle wreck lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including your future medical expenses and the income you’ve lost (or will lose) during your recovery. They also understand how to document pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses that aren’t as obvious as ER invoices.
Your Injuries May Result in Permanent Disability
Some motorcycle accident injuries lead to life-changing conditions that affect your ability to work and enjoy life, such as:
- Paralysis or mobility limitations
- Chronic pain
- Cognitive impairments
- Amputation of limbs
- Permanent disfigurement
Each of these requires specialized legal advocacy. An attorney can help calculate the lifetime costs of your disability, including long-term medical care, home modifications, adaptive equipment, loss of earning capacity, diminished quality of life, and future medical procedures.
You've Lost a Loved One in a Motorcycle Crash
Tragically, some motorcycle wrecks result in fatalities. If you lose a spouse, child, or other close family member in a crash, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim.
In Texas alone, 581 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in 2023, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. Families of these victims usually face grief and other challenges, including:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Loss of inheritance
No amount of money can replace your loved one, but holding the responsible party accountable can provide a measure of justice and closure while helping ease the financial burden.
You Feel Overwhelmed by the Legal Process
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about your legal rights and the value of your claim, or if you experience difficulty gathering the necessary documentation, that too is a clear sign to reach out for help. Without legal guidance, you might unknowingly sign something or say something to an insurance company that hurts your case.
FAQ
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents in Texas?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Should I Speak With the Other Driver's Insurance Company?
It's generally advisable to avoid giving statements to the other driver's insurance company without legal representation. What you say could be used to minimize your claim or shift blame to you.
What if the Driver Who Hit Me Doesn't Have Insurance?
If an uninsured or underinsured motorist hits you, you may still have options, whether through your own insurance policy's uninsured motorist coverage or a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Recover the Compensation You’re Entitled To
After a serious motorcycle crash, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the consequences alone. Our Houston law firm has an established history of standing up for injured riders and their families. When you work with Ramsey Law Group, you get experienced attorneys who will fight tirelessly to make sure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Speak to a motorcycle wreck attorney from our team today to discuss your options. We offer free consultations, and we’re only paid if we win for you. Contact us and take the first step toward getting your life back on track.