Motorcyclists are vulnerable road users in Texas who are at an increased risk of suffering serious and fatal injuries in accidents compared to vehicle drivers. In 2024, 585 motorcyclists in the State of Texas lost their lives in traffic accidents. Identifying the most common types of motorcycle accidents can help riders avoid crash risks. Make sure to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in San Antonio for legal guidance.
Left-Turn Accidents
Drivers can make dangerous left-hand turns that place them directly in the path of oncoming motorcyclists if they aren’t careful. Distracted, drowsy or negligent drivers can misjudge the speed or distance of motorcycles when making left turns at intersections in Texas.
A careless driver may also intentionally or unintentionally fail to yield the right-of-way to a motorcyclist and enter an intersection prematurely. These mistakes can lead to deadly left-turn accidents, such as T-bone and head-on collisions. Speak with an experienced distracted driving accident lawyer in San Antonio for legal guidance.
Blind Spot Accidents
The small size of motorcycles makes them easy for drivers to miss, especially when drivers aren’t careful. A distracted or speeding driver is more likely to merge or change lanes on top of a motorcyclist, causing a blind spot accident. Failing to check blind spots and making an unsafe lane changes also increase the odds of motorcycle blind spot accidents.Â
Rear-End Collisions
Drivers who tailgate motorcyclists put riders at risk of potentially fatal rear-end collisions. A large and heavy passenger car or truck can cause an immense amount of damage if it slams into the back of a light motorcycle. Underlying factors typically include following too closely, driving while distracted and heavy traffic congestion.
Dooring Accidents
Motor vehicle occupants have a responsibility to check for oncoming motorcyclists and bicyclists before they open their doors, especially when parked adjacent to the road or bike lanes. If a driver swings his or her door out suddenly and without looking, it could cut off the path of an oncoming motorcyclist and cause a serious crash.
Drunk Driving Accidents
Many drivers operate under the intoxicating influence of drugs and alcohol in Texas despite it being against state law. A drunk driving motorcycle wreck can be catastrophic, as impaired drivers are more likely to engage in serious traffic offenses such as criminal speeding, racing, red-light running and reckless driving. These infractions can increase the severity of a drunk driving accident. Drunk drivers also have slower reaction times and poor judgment.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Motorcycles are lighter than passenger cars, and are therefore more susceptible to unsafe roadway conditions and related single-vehicle accidents. Potholes, cracks, uneven surfaces, loose gravel, grass clippings and storm debris can all threaten the safety of a motorcyclist in Texas.
It is the city or state government’s job to ensure the maintenance and safety of public roads. Motorcyclists have the right to file claims against the government for single-vehicle accidents caused by dangerous roads if the agency negligently ignored a complaint or failed to notice an obvious hazard.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Texas Can Help
Determining the cause of your motorcycle accident in Texas is the first step toward seeking justice. Get help from an experienced San Antonio car accident attorney at Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers to understand what caused your crash. We can investigate your recent motorcycle collision, search for evidence, identify the at-fault parties and seek fair compensation through the legal system on your behalf.