Coppell, Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Riding a motorcycle offers freedom and a sense of exhilaration, but it also comes with significant risks. When a crash occurs, the consequences for a motorcyclist are often far more severe than for people in other vehicles. Without the protection of a car's frame, seat belts, or airbags, motorcycle riders are more likely to suffer serious injuries, even in relatively low-speed collisions. Following a motorcycle accident, a motorcyclist may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

At Jerry D. Andrews, P.C., our Coppell motorcycle accident attorney works with injury victims to help them pursue the justice they deserve. Motorcycle accident cases often involve complex questions of fault and liability. Insurance companies may unfairly assume that motorcyclists are reckless, or they may attempt to reduce payouts by shifting blame. Our lawyer can challenge these tactics, build a strong case using relevant evidence, and work to ensure that a victim's rights will be protected throughout the legal process.

How Driver Negligence Causes Motorcycle Accidents

Most motorcycle riders take safety seriously and operate their motorcycles responsibly. Accidents often occur due to the negligent actions of other drivers. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, drivers who are inattentive or reckless can easily overlook them, resulting in dangerous and sometimes fatal collisions.

Forms of driver negligence that commonly lead to motorcycle accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Cellphone use, adjustments to vehicle systems, eating, or engaging in other activities can divert a driver's attention from the road, preventing them from noticing a nearby motorcyclist. Even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to a collision that can seriously injure a motorcycle rider.
• Traffic Violations: Drivers who violate speed limits, run red lights, or refuse to yield the right-of-way when changing lanes or merging can put the safety of motorcyclists at risk.
• Failure to Check Blind Spots: Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, drivers may fail to notice them when merging or turning. Inattention or failure to pay attention to motorcycles can lead to serious accidents.
• Aggressive Driving: Behaviors such as tailgating, cutting off motorcycles, or weaving between lanes can lead to collisions in which motorcyclists are seriously injured.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment can affect a driver's coordination, judgment, and reaction times. An impaired driver may not see a motorcyclist in time, or they may misjudge a motorcycle's speed and distance. They may also engage in dangerous behaviors that can cause devastating injuries to motorcyclists in collisions.

In many motorcycle accident cases, the driver of the other vehicle may not have noticed a motorcyclist at all. However, failure to observe other road users does not excuse negligent behavior. A driver who fails to yield or who does not fully pay attention to their surroundings may be held responsible for the injuries that result from their negligence.