Riding motorcycles continues to be extremely popular, with many enthusiasts taking regular rides in the hill country. In addition there are those who use their motorcycles as their regular mode of transportation. Looking out for the safety of motorcyclists is extremely important. Here are some of the questions most commonly asked of motorcycle accident attorneys.
Q: I was sideswiped on the road by a car that didn’t see me, and I wasn’t wearing a helmet. Can I still file a personal injury claim?
A: Yes. The law is clear that you are not required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle, as long as you are at least 18 years old. However, the answer to this question is far more complicated than that. The answer SHOULD be that not wearing a helmet will not affect your claim, but it is important to have a motorcycle accident attorney who can make clear to a jury that exercising your right not to wear a helmet should not negatively impact your claim. This is not always easy, and you need a lawyer who is experienced with motorcycle accident cases.
Q: What is the most common injury in motorcycle accidents?
A: Many minor motorcycle accidents result in leg and foot injuries, but the leading cause of fatal injuries in motorcycle accidents is head injuries. There is a lot of debate on the benefits of wearing a helmet, with some groups claiming that helmets can actually create more problems than they solve. On the other hand, most studies seem to show that wearing a helmet can significantly improve the chances of survival by lessening the likelihood and severity of head injuries. With that said, it is still important to understand that, in Texas, it is your right as an adult to choose not to wear a helmet while riding.
Q: How can I be as safe as possible while riding?
A: Using proper safety gear, including a DOT approved helmet and riding leathers goes a long way. It can also be a good idea to participate in rider safety programs. There are excellent resources to get connected with a rider safety program in your area. Many of these programs are inexpensive, and offer classes for every ability level from beginners who have never ridden before to experts who have been riding for years. The fact is, any opportunity to pick up tips or learn new techniques to stay safe in an activity that carries a certain inherent degree of danger is worthwhile.
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident that was caused by the negligence of someone else, speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer immediately to discuss your options. Handling a motorcycle accident claim is different from handling a car accident claim, partly due to the biases that some people have against motorcycles and motorcyclists. However, a motorcycle accident lawyer who is dedicated to protecting your rights will make sure that you are heard, and will fight hard to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by the negligent party. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning that you pay them only if they succeed at recovering compensation for you, and generally offer FREE CASE EVALUATION. For more information, contact us today.