Austin Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

What Should I Do If I am Involved in an Accident on My Motorcycle?

A motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately afterward can protect both your health and your injury claim. If you’re physically able, focus on getting medical care, documenting the crash, and preserving as much evidence as possible.

Here are the steps our Austin motorcycle accident lawyers recommend:

• Move to a safe location if you can do so safely. Get yourself out of traffic and assess your injuries before attempting to move your motorcycle.
• Call 911 immediately. Report the crash and request police and emergency medical assistance.
• Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Adrenaline can hide serious injuries, and prompt medical care creates important documentation for your claim.
• Exchange information with everyone involved, including names, phone numbers, insurance information, driver’s license numbers, and license plate numbers.
• Cooperate with law enforcement. Provide accurate information and request a copy of the police report once it’s available.
• Take photographs and videos of the vehicles, motorcycle, roadway, skid marks, traffic signs, weather conditions, visible injuries, and anything else that may help explain how the crash occurred.
• Speak with witnesses and collect their names and contact information before they leave the scene.
• Write down what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory. Include details about traffic, weather, road conditions, vehicle positions, and anything you remember leading up to the collision.
• Talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking with the insurance company. Insurance adjusters may ask for recorded statements or offer a quick settlement before the full extent of your injuries is known.

Taking these steps can strengthen your claim and make it easier to recover compensation for your injuries and financial losses. An experienced Austin motorcycle accident lawyer can help preserve evidence, handle communications with the insurance company, and protect your rights while you focus on your recovery.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Austin, TX

Motorcycle accidents are among the most severe traffic collisions because riders have far less protection than occupants of passenger vehicles. Even at relatively low speeds, these crashes frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 104 people were killed and 620 were seriously injured in motorcycle crashes in the Austin area during 2021. Motorcycle fatalities increased by more than 60% compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing risks riders face on Central Texas roadways.

Motorcyclists account for a disproportionately high number of traffic fatalities. Per mile traveled, motorcycle riders are approximately 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles.

TXDOT data also shows that most motorcycle crashes occur between May and October, with weekends—especially Saturdays—and nighttime hours between 6:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. presenting the greatest risk. In Austin, heavily traveled roads such as Interstate 35, Parmer Lane, FM 969, and SH 71 consistently experience a higher number of motorcycle collisions.

Common contributing factors include speeding, drivers failing to yield, unsafe left turns, impaired driving, distracted driving, and failure to obey traffic signs or signals. While wearing a DOT-compliant helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious head injuries, nearly half of the riders killed in Austin-area motorcycle crashes were not wearing one at the time of the collision.

Sources: NHTSA, TXDOT, and IIHS.

Motorcycle Accident Facts and Figures in the United States

Motorcycle accidents are most common during summer afternoons and evenings when more vehicles are on the road. Although motorcycles account for only 3% of all registered vehicles, they were involved in 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2021. Tragically, motorcycle-related deaths have risen sharply, with fatality rates climbing over 33% since 2009.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 72% of motorcycle operators involved in crashes were not alcohol-impaired. Other notable trends include:

• 67% of crashes occurred on urban roads rather than highways.
• 83% of accidents happened in clear weather conditions.
• 50% took place after dark.
• 53% involved two vehicles.
• 59% of motorcyclists involved in crashes were wearing helmets.

These numbers emphasize the importance of safe riding practices and increased awareness among all road users to help reduce the risks associated with motorcycles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Austin

Motorcycle accidents are often caused by drivers who fail to see riders or don’t share the road safely. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than passenger vehicles, even a moment of inattention can result in a serious or fatal collision.

Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Austin include:

• Left-Turn Collisions: Drivers turning left frequently misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or fail to see an oncoming rider, resulting in dangerous intersection crashes where the motorcyclist has little time to react.
• Rear-End Collisions: Distracted or inattentive drivers may strike motorcycles stopped at traffic lights or slowed in traffic. Even low-speed rear-end crashes can cause serious injuries because riders have little protection.
• Unsafe Lane Changes and Sideswipes: Motorcycles are often overlooked in blind spots. Drivers who change lanes without checking mirrors or signaling can force riders off the road or cause serious sideswipe collisions.
• Hazardous Road Conditions: Potholes, loose gravel, uneven pavement, construction zones, and roadway debris may be minor obstacles for passenger vehicles but can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash.
• Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. Drivers who speed, tailgate, or drive aggressively place motorcyclists at a much greater risk of serious injury.
• Impaired or Distracted Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs—or those distracted by cell phones or other activities—often fail to recognize motorcycles until it’s too late to avoid a collision.

Determining exactly what caused a motorcycle accident is one of the most important parts of building a successful injury claim. Our Austin motorcycle accident lawyers investigate every crash, preserve critical evidence, identify all potentially responsible parties, and work to recover the full compensation available under Texas law.

Austin Motorcycle Laws

To stay safe and legally compliant on the road, it’s important for motorcyclists in Austin to be familiar with Texas motorcycle laws. These regulations are designed to protect riders and other road users, reduce accidents, and establish accountability in the event of a collision. Here’s what every motorcyclist should know:

Helmet Laws

• Riders under 21 must wear helmets at all times.
• Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a motorcycle safety course or have at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage.

Licensing Requirements

• A Class M license is required to legally operate a motorcycle in Texas.
• To obtain a Class M license, you must pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and complete a motorcycle safety course.

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

Motorcycles must be equipped with:

• Headlights and taillights that remain illuminated while riding.
• Mirrors that provide a clear view at least 200 feet behind.
• Functional brakes on both wheels.
• A horn and exhaust system that meets noise regulations.
• Handlebars no higher than 15 inches above the seat.

Lane Splitting

• Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Texas. Motorcyclists must stay within their lane and avoid sharing it with other vehicles.

Passenger Rules

• Passengers are only allowed if the motorcycle is designed for two people and has a passenger seat and footrests.
• Passengers must follow the same helmet laws as riders.

Insurance Requirements

Texas law requires motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person.
• $60,000 for bodily injury per accident.
• $25,000 for property damage.

Speed and Traffic Laws

• Motorcyclists must follow all standard traffic laws, including speed limits, yielding, and stopping at signals.
• Reckless driving, such as stunt riding or excessive speeding, can result in fines, license suspension, or worse penalties.

Night Riding and Visibility

• Motorcycles must have working front and rear lights to ride at night.
• Reflective gear is strongly recommended to improve visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.

Penalties for Breaking the Law

Violations of Texas motorcycle laws can lead to:

• Fines and increased insurance premiums.
• Points on your license or, in severe cases, suspension.
• Criminal charges for reckless or dangerous behavior.

Devastating Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents

When a motorcycle collides with a larger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Bikers lack the protection of airbags, seatbelts and steel frames. Common severe injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI):  Concussions, bleeding and swelling of the brain. Can cause impairment of cognitive skills, emotions, speech and motor functions.
• Spinal cord injuries:  Fractures, dislocations and compression injuries to the vertebrae and spinal cord. May result in paralysis.
• Amputations:  Severe crush injuries can necessitate amputation of limbs.
• Internal organ damage:  Lacerations to lungs, kidneys, liver, intestines and other organs.
• Road rash:  When a rider slides across pavement, it scrapes off several layers of skin. Extremely painful.
• Broken bones:  Fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, collarbone and other bones.

The costs of these devastating injuries add up quickly. You may need multiple surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and assistive devices. And you may have permanent disabilities that prevent you from working. The expert Austin motorcycle accident lawyers at Thompson Law give FREE CONSULTATIONS so there’s no risk, CALL TODAY concerning your case. With timing being so vital, our Austin motorcycle accident lawyers are READY TO SUPPORT YOU 24/7 in pursuing maximum compensation.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident in Austin?

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for both the financial losses and personal hardships caused by their injuries. The amount available depends on the severity of your injuries, the available insurance coverage, who was responsible for the crash, and how the accident affects your daily life.

Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency transportation, hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, medical equipment, and other necessary treatment.
• Future Medical Care: Ongoing treatment, additional surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and long-term care that your doctors reasonably expect you will need in the future.
• Lost Wages: Income lost while recovering from your injuries, including missed work, sick leave, vacation time, and other employment benefits.
• Loss of Future Earning Capacity: Compensation for reduced ability to earn income if permanent injuries prevent you from returning to your previous occupation or limit your future employment opportunities.
• Household Services: The cost of hiring help for household chores, childcare, home maintenance, or other responsibilities you can no longer perform because of your injuries.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your motorcycle, helmet, riding gear, protective equipment, electronics, and other personal property damaged in the collision.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life caused by your injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Compensation for anxiety, depression, PTSD, emotional trauma, and other psychological effects resulting from the accident.
• Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident caused by another person’s negligence, eligible surviving family members may be able to recover compensation under Texas wrongful death laws.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or particularly reckless conduct, additional damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior.

Building a strong motorcycle accident claim requires documenting every loss—not just your current medical bills, but also your future treatment needs, lost income, property damage, and the long-term impact your injuries have on your life. Our Austin motorcycle accident lawyers gather the evidence needed to pursue the full compensation available under Texas law while you focus on your recovery.

Most Dangerous Roadways for Motorcycle Wrecks in Austin

Motorcyclists in Austin face heightened risks on several roadways known for frequent accidents. Notable high-risk areas include:

• Interstate 35 (I-35): Running through Austin’s center, I-35 experiences heavy traffic and frequent lane changes, increasing collision risks for motorcyclists.
• Loop 1 (MoPac Expressway): This expressway’s narrow lanes and congestion, especially during rush hours, pose significant hazards to riders.
• Highway 183: As a major route, Highway 183 often has high traffic volumes and construction zones, creating challenging conditions for motorcyclists.
• FM 2222 and Ranch to Market Road 620: These scenic roads feature sharp turns and elevation changes, which can be perilous for riders, particularly those less experienced.

Downtown Austin and the University of Texas Campus: Areas like downtown and the university campus are densely populated with vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving motorcyclists.

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents happen so quickly that determining fault can be challenging. While some assume motorcyclists are usually to blame, this isn’t the case. Many accidents are actually caused by car drivers who fail to take extra precautions around motorcycles. Common causes include improper left turns, distracted driving, failing to check for oncoming traffic before opening doors, and overall lack of awareness of motorcyclists.

Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Austin know how to thoroughly investigate crashes and uncover evidence that victims may miss when dealing with insurance companies alone. To build a strong case, we gather:

• Testimony from witnesses
• Video footage from nearby surveillance cameras
• Photos of the crash scene and vehicle damages
• Traffic citations issued after the accident
• Medical records and imaging scans
• The official police report

With our expertise, we can help ensure all the facts are presented and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How Do You Prove the Driver That Hit You Was Negligent?

To establish negligence on the part of the other driver, our attorneys must demonstrate four key elements:

Duty of Care

Every driver on the road has a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly, with the safety of others in mind. This is known as a “duty of care.” By gathering essential evidence like police reports, eyewitness accounts, and traffic laws, your legal team can demonstrate that the other driver was expected to act with caution to prevent accidents.

Breach of Duty of Care

When a driver fails to meet their duty of care, they violate the rules of the road, creating a dangerous situation. Common breaches in motorcycle accidents include:

• Distracted driving
• Drunk or impaired driving
• Fatigue-related negligence
• Unsafe lane changes
• Failing to yield to motorcyclists
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Opening a car door into traffic without checking for motorcyclists

Causation

Causation means proving that the other driver’s breach of duty directly caused the motorcycle accident and your injuries. This requires showing that your injuries were a result of the crash, not preexisting conditions. Medical records, imaging scans, and expert opinions play a critical role in establishing this link.

Damages

Damages refer to the harm you suffered as a result of the accident. These can be:

• Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, reduced quality of life, or permanent disfigurement.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence, such as drunk driving, additional damages may be sought to punish the at-fault party.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, understanding how negligence is determined is essential to seeking proper compensation. By proving that the other party breached their duty of care and caused your injuries, you may recover damages for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Contact our Austin motorcycle accident attorneys today to protect your rights and discuss your case.

Why Should I Hire An Austin Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, getting legal help is essential to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. Motorcycle accident cases require a deep understanding of Austin personal injury laws, and our experienced Austin motorcycle accident lawyers at Thompson Law are here to provide the representation you need. We are dedicated to advocating for our clients and fighting for the compensation they deserve.

If another driver’s carelessness caused your motorcycle accident, here’s why having a lawyer is important:

1. Knowledge of the Law: A lawyer understands Texas motorcycle accident laws and how to use them to help your case.
2. Protecting Your Rights: They’ll make sure your rights are respected and fight for the compensation you’re owed.
3. Building a Strong Case: Lawyers investigate the accident, gather evidence, and figure out who is responsible.
4. Dealing With Insurance Companies: They’ll handle all communication with the insurance company to get you a fair settlement.
5. Going to Court if Needed: If the case ends up in court, your lawyer will represent you and fight for the best result.
6. Less Stress for You: While they handle the legal work, you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

Having a motorcycle accident lawyer makes the legal process easier and helps ensure you get the best outcome. Let Thompson Law help you during this difficult time.

Contact Our Austin Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has suffered injury in a motorcycle accident in the Austin area, the dedicated Austin motorcycle accident lawyers at Thompson Law can help. With decades of combined experience successfully recovering millions of dollars for injured motorcycle accident victims, our highly experienced personal injury lawyers at Thompson Law will aggressively yet compassionately pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

We understand how devastating and life-altering motorcycle crashes can be. Our accident lawyers have helped hundreds of injured bikers and passengers obtain justice and financial security. We are deeply committed to protecting the rights of Austin area motorcycle riders and their families.

As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers, we have a proven track record of securing high-value recoveries and settlements for clients. Our skilled accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations, aggressively negotiate with insurance companies, and are fully prepared to take your case to trial if needed. We know how to maximize results for injured motorcycle accident victims.

Don’t go through this difficult time alone – call our compassionate Austin motorcycle accident lawyers for dedicated legal guidance. We are proud to provide personalized support every step of the way. Our motorcycle accident lawyers will listen to you, answer all your questions, relieve your stress, and work tirelessly on your case while you focus on your recovery. C

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyers. The competent motorcycle accident lawyers at Thompson Law provide FREE CONSULTATIONS so there’s no risk, CALL TODAY regarding your case. With timing being so important, our motorcycle accident lawyers are READY TO SUPPORT YOU 24/7 in seeking maximum compensation.

Motorcycle Accidents FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Texas?

Most motorcycle accident lawsuits in Texas must be filed within two years of the crash. However, claims involving government vehicles or public entities may have much shorter notice deadlines, making it important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Acting quickly also helps preserve evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and crash scene documentation before it disappears.

Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. Not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation after a motorcycle accident. Texas law allows many riders over the age of 21 to legally ride without a helmet under certain circumstances.

Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were made worse because you weren’t wearing a helmet, but that does not necessarily eliminate your right to pursue compensation. An attorney can evaluate how helmet use may affect your specific claim.

Should I give a recorded statement to the insurance company?

It’s usually best to speak with an attorney before providing a recorded statement to an insurance company. Insurance adjusters often ask questions designed to minimize the value of your claim or shift blame for the crash.

Your lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and help protect your legal rights throughout the claims process.

What compensation can I recover after a motorcycle accident?

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future medical treatment, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, motorcycle repairs, and other accident-related losses.

The amount available depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, available insurance coverage, liability, and the long-term impact the accident has on your life.

Who can be held responsible for a motorcycle accident?

The at-fault driver is often responsible, but other parties may also share liability. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility could include a commercial vehicle operator, an employer, a motorcycle manufacturer, a maintenance company, or a government agency responsible for unsafe road conditions.

A thorough investigation helps identify every party that may be responsible for your injuries and financial losses.

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?

Your first priority should always be your safety and medical care. Call 911, seek medical treatment, report the accident, take photographs if you are able, gather witness information, and avoid discussing fault with the insurance company before receiving legal advice.

Early documentation helps protect both your health and your injury claim.

What if the other driver says the accident was my fault?

Disputes over fault are common after motorcycle accidents. Insurance companies often try to place blame on motorcyclists, even when another driver caused the collision.

Evidence such as police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, crash reconstruction, and vehicle damage can help determine what actually happened.

How is the value of a motorcycle accident claim determined?

Every motorcycle accident claim is different. The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, available insurance coverage, and how the injuries affect your daily life.

An attorney can evaluate your damages and work to recover compensation that reflects both your current and future losses.

Do I need a lawyer after a motorcycle accident?

While you are not required to hire a lawyer, motorcycle accident claims often involve severe injuries, disputed liability, and insurance companies that aggressively defend these cases. Having legal representation can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

An Austin motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, negotiate with insurers, and pursue the full compensation available under Texas law.