Texas Motorcycle Accident Law Firm

If you’ve suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident in Texas, whether it’s in bustling urban areas or throughout the vast expanse of the Lone Star State, Smith Magincalda is here to assist you. We’re dedicated to holding accountable the party responsible for your injuries and ensuring that justice is served.

We understand the immense impact a motorcycle accident can have on a rider’s life. While your passion for riding is clear, we recognize the potential hazards, and if someone else’s negligence led to the crash, you shouldn’t have to bear the brunt of the consequences. Reach out to us at +1 (888) 322-4665 to discuss the specifics of your accident, and let us guide you toward recovery and getting back on the road.

Our commitment lies in assisting injured individuals throughout Texas. Whether you’ve been injured or you’ve lost a loved one due to another party’s reckless actions, you have the right to seek compensation to cover accident-related expenses and may even be eligible for punitive damages. Our team is ready to support you, so don’t delay. Contact Smith Magincalda here, or call us at +1 (888) 322-4665 today.

U.S. Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) has unveiled disconcerting figures about motorcycle incidents and casualties in the United States. In this dataset, a motorcycle is categorized as a moped, two- or three-wheeled bike, off-road cycle, scooter, mini bike, or pocket-sized bike. Despite New York enforcing helmet laws and making progress, more lives could be conserved annually if a greater number of residents adhered to these regulations.

Key findings from the 2016 NHTSA Motorcycle Traffic Safety report include:

• Motorcycle collision fatalities were 28 times higher than passenger vehicle collision fatalities for the distance traveled on U.S. roads in 2016.
• Over a quarter of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes didn’t possess valid motorcycle licenses.
• In 2016, 93% of motorcycles involved in fatal crashes were two-wheeled motorcycles. Motorcyclists made up nearly 15% of all traffic-related fatalities, with 4,950 riders and 336 passengers among the 5,286 motorcyclists killed in traffic accidents that year.
• 37% of motorcyclists killed in single-vehicle accidents were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
• The NHTSA projected that in 2016, around 1,859 motorcyclists were saved by wearing helmets. Projections also suggest that 802 more riders could have survived had they worn helmets.
• Motorcyclists constituted the largest subset, accounting for 25%, of drivers in alcohol-related accidents. Passenger cars comprised 21%, light trucks 20%, and large trucks 2%.
• A 5.1% surge in motorcycle fatalities from 2015 to 2016, resulting in the annual fatality count rising from 5,029 to 5,286.
• Motorcyclists involved in nighttime crashes were three times more likely to be intoxicated.

• Notably, while younger drivers are often deemed the most vulnerable group, statistics suggest that older motorcyclists face higher fatality risks. Between 2007 and 2016, national motorcycle fatalities increased by 2%, with the percentage of fatalities in the older age group reaching 54% in 2016. The average age of a motorcyclist killed increased from 39 in 2007 to 43 in 2016 due to a significant rise in deaths among riders over 40.
  
  

In terms of age-related risks, 2016 data reveals that motorcyclists aged 50 and above had the highest fatality rates on weekends, a departure from 2007 when those aged 30 and younger faced the highest weekend risk.

Besides age, speed plays a pivotal role in motorcycle fatalities. Motorcyclists lack the external protections enjoyed by passenger vehicle occupants, making high-speed impacts more likely to be fatal. In 2016, 33% of motorcyclists were speeding at the time of fatal accidents, a 14% increase compared to passenger vehicle drivers.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Our team can provide assistance if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s carelessness. We’re here to help if you’ve been injured in an accident involving:

• Drunk Driving Accidents: When individuals choose to drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, they put themselves and others at risk. This irresponsible behavior can lead to serious accidents resulting in injuries or even death.
• Driver Error: Accidents often happen when drivers fail to operate their vehicles responsibly. Distractions while driving or careless driving behavior can lead to accidents that harm others.
• Road Defects: Municipalities and cities are responsible for maintaining safe road conditions. Motorcyclists face significant risks if roads have potholes, uneven surfaces, or other unaddressed hazards.
• Defective Motorcycle Parts or Design: If you’re involved in an accident due to a defective part on your motorcycle, the manufacturer and others in the distribution chain could be held liable for your injuries.
  
  

If someone’s actions as described above have caused you harm, you might have legal options to hold them accountable. Reach out to us at +1 (888) 322-4665 to discuss your situation and potential options.