Motorcycle Accidents

Houston, TX Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Harris County Motorcycle Injury Lawyer for Serious Injuries and Wrongful Death

Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but it can also be dangerous. Motorcyclists understand the risks that they face, and they usually take great care to stay as safe as possible. In addition to wearing helmets and using other safety gear, most motorcyclists do everything they can to make sure they are visible to other drivers while following traffic laws and minimizing the chances that they will be involved in a collision. Unfortunately, many drivers do not act with the same level of care, and when they fail to share the road safely with motorcycles, dangerous or deadly motorcycle accidents can occur. With the help of a Borad Certified Personal Injury Attorney, motorcyclists who have been injured by negligent drivers can take legal action to pursue compensation for their injuries and damages.

The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec provides representation in multiple different types of accident and injury cases, and we work to make sure injury victims will be able to address their injuries and make a full recovery. With over 25 years of experience representing injury victims, Attorney Kadlec can make sure motorcyclists take the correct steps to hold negligent drivers or other liable parties responsible for the injuries they have suffered.

How Negligence Leads to Motorcycle Wrecks

Collisions involving motorcycles often occur because drivers of other vehicles act negligently. Forms of driver negligence that can lead to motorcycle accidents include:

  • Distracted driving - Drivers need to make sure they are fully aware of motorcycles. If a driver does not fully pay attention to the road, they may not notice a motorcycle in their blind spot, or they may fail to check to make sure the road is clear before changing lanes, making turns, or proceeding through intersections. Drivers who talk or text on cell phones or otherwise take their attention away from the road may cut off a motorcycle or run them off the road.
  • Tailgating - The smaller size of motorcycles can sometimes make their speed difficult to judge. Drivers who follow too closely behind a motorcycle may be unable to slow down or stop in time to avoid striking a motorcyclist that has slowed down unexpectedly.
  • Speeding - Drivers who exceed the speed limit may not have enough time or space to slow down and avoid colliding with a motorcycle.

In some cases, drivers may attempt to avoid liability by claiming that a motorcyclist was partially responsible for a collision. However, Texas law allows a person to pursue compensation as long as they were less than 50 percent responsible, or "at fault" for the crash. When a motorcyclist is partially responsible for a collision, the amount of compensation they can recover will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

What are Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?

Because motorcyclists have little in the way of protection, they are likely to suffer serious harm in a collision. The force of a vehicle that strikes a motorcycle can cause multiple types of bodily injuries, and a person may suffer additional injuries if they are thrown from their motorcycle, causing them to land forcefully on the ground or be struck by other vehicles. A motorcyclist may suffer catastrophic injuries such as:


Staying Safe as a Motorcyclists in Houston, TX

What Are The Most Dangerous Roads & Highways for Motorcyclist In Houston?

Houston, is known for our aggressive driving, and high stress driving culture. This coupled with extensive highway systems, and busy streets makes it significantly dangerous for motorcyclists.

The most dangerous roads and highways for motorcyclists include the I-610 Loop, U.S. Highway 290, and the Sam Houston Tollway. These areas are notorious for high traffic volumes, frequent lane changes, and high-speed limits, which increase the risk of accidents for motorcyclists.

Why Motorcyclist Should Avoid Rush Hour

Rush hour in Houston can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists due to congested roads, impatient drivers, and increased instances of abrupt stopping. The reduced reaction times and closer proximities between vehicles heighten the risk of collisions, making it advisable for motorcyclists to avoid these peak traffic times.

Houston’s Debris Issue Is a Serious Hazard To Motorcyclist

Debris on Houston roads, in which we see every day, range from construction materials, blown tires and dropped cargo. This is a serious hazard to motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles have less stability and can easily lose control when encountering road debris, leading to severe accidents.

At What Speeds Are Motorcycle Accidents Most Fatal?

Motorcycle accidents become increasingly fatal as speeds exceed 60 mph. At high speeds, the ability to react quickly to road hazards or other vehicles is diminished, and the force of impact during a collision is increased, leading to more severe injuries or fatalities.

Common Part & Tire Defects

Defective motorcycle parts and tires can lead to accidents without any fault of the rider. Common issues include brake failure, tire blowouts, and steering mechanism defects, which can cause the rider to lose control and crash. It's important to have an experienced attorney on your side if you believe a part or tire defect was the cause of your accident. We will ensure responsible parties are held accountable so you can heal and move forward with life.


Texas Laws for Motorcyclist

What Is Needed Before a Motorcycle Can Be Legally Driven on Texas Roads?

Before legally driving a motorcycle on Texas roads, riders must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license, complete a motorcycle safety course, and have their motorcycle registered and inspected.

How Old Do You Have To Be For A Motorcycle License in Texas?

In Texas, individuals must be at least 15 years old to apply for a motorcycle learner's permit and 16 years old to obtain a motorcycle license, provided they have completed a motorcycle safety course.

What Rights Do Motorcycle Passengers Have After Accidents?

Motorcycle passengers have the right to seek compensation for injuries sustained in an accident, similar to the rights of the rider. This includes coverage for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Click here for a free consultation with a Houston attorney if you were injured.


Insurance Laws for Motorcyclist in Texas

What Are The Insurance Requirements for Motorcyclist in Texas?

The minimum insurance requirements for motorcyclists in Texas are:

  • $30,000 in bodily injury per person
  • $60,000 in total bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 in property damage per accident
  • Can You Insure a Motorcycle Without a Motorcycle License in Texas?

    Yes, you can insure a motorcycle without a motorcycle license in Texas, but without a license, this may impact your insurance rates and coverage options.

    What Do I Do If I Don’t Have Enough Insurance To Cover a Motorcycle Accident?

    If your insurance does not cover all expenses after a motorcycle accident, you may need to explore other avenues such as personal injury protection, medical payments coverage, or filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party. For more detailed information on this matter, feel free to give us a call at 281-962-8949


    Wrongful Death

    How Often Do Motorcycle Accidents Lead to Fatalities in Texas?

    Motorcycle accidents are disproportionately fatal. However, Texas experiences a significant number of motorcycle fatalities each year due to factors like lack of physical protection, high-speed collisions, and visibility issues.

    What Should I Do If A Loved One Died in A Motorcycle Accident?

    If a loved one died in a motorcycle accident, it's crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and potential compensation. Our lawyers at Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec can guide you through the process of filing a wrongful death claim and seeking justice for your loss.

    How Can A Lawyer Help With A Wrongful Death Motorcycle Case?

    A lawyer can assist in a wrongful death motorcycle case by investigating the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court to ensure you receive fair compensation for your loss. As Board-Certified Injury Attorneys we are experts in helping our clients recover the comensation they need to help them heal through such tragedies.


    Suing a Government Entity For a Motorcycle Accident

    When a motorcycle accident is caused by poor road conditions or negligence on the part of a government entity, victims may have the right to sue the responsible government body. However, these cases are complex and require navigating specific legal procedures and tight deadlines.


    When A Third Party is Involved

    Accidents involving third-party contractors, such as those responsible for road maintenance or construction, can complicate liability issues. Identifying and proving negligence on the part of a third-party contractor requires a thorough investigation and legal expertise to achieve compensation for damages and injuries sustained.

    Contact Our Houston Motorcyclist Injury Attorney

    If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, our firm can help you take the correct steps to secure compensation for the damages you have suffered. In many cases, drivers will claim that a motorcyclist was responsible for a collision, so it is important to act quickly to gather evidence showing that a negligent driver was at fault for your injuries. Contact our office by calling 281-962-8949281-962-8949 to arrange a complimentary consultation today. We represent injured motorcyclists in Sugar Land, Katy, The Woodlands, and through Harris County.


    Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec

    9575 Katy Freeway, Suite 200
    Houston, TX 77024

    Motorcycle in Houston TX

    Contact Us For A Free Consultation

    Work with an attorney with a proven record of success. To begin crafting your personal injury case, contact our Houston office online or call us at Free Consultation 281-962-8949281-962-8949.

    We offer free personal injury consultations, and most cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. Under this fee structure, you would not owe us attorney fees unless we recovered compensation on your behalf.