Written by Amanda Demanda

Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Houston, Texas

Motorcycle accidents in Houston are a major safety concern due to frequent collisions involving distracted, speeding, or drunk car or truck drivers. Riders are particularly vulnerable, as motorcycles provide little protection in a crash, which can lead to catastrophic injuries or death. Houston’s urban sprawl, coupled with the lack of dedicated infrastructure for motorcyclists, increases the likelihood of severe accidents. The failure of drivers to see motorcyclists in their blind spots due to the smaller size of these vehicles also contributes to devastating outcomes for riders.

At Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, our Houston bike accident lawyers fight fiercely for justice for injured motorcyclists. If you have been injured in a bike crash, you deserve a Houston motorcycle accident law firm that can level the playing field and won’t back down against large insurance companies. With over $500 million recovered, we bring the firepower of aggressive trial readiness and negotiation skills to the table. Don’t let the insurance companies undervalue your Houston motorcycle accident claims. We will go head-to-head with them to fight for the highest possible compensation for you. Let us take charge of your case while you focus on your recovery.

Motorcycle Safety Laws and Regulations in Houston, TX

At Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, our knowledgeable personal injury lawyers in Houston are well-versed with the state motorcycle safety laws and will use them to your fullest advantage in an injury claim for damages.

Motorcycle Licensing Requirements

To operate a motorcycle in Texas, riders must obtain a specific motorcycle endorsement (Class M) on their driver’s license. To acquire this endorsement, riders must:

Be at least 16 years old.
Complete a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)-approved motorcycle safety course.
Pass a written test and a practical skills exam.

Texas Transportation Code § 521.084 outlines the licensing requirements for motorcyclists, including the Class M endorsement.

Helmet Laws

In Texas, helmet laws require certain motorcyclists to wear helmets while riding. The law mandates that:

All riders under the age of 21 must wear a helmet.
Riders aged 21 and over may choose not to wear a helmet if they meet specific conditions, such as completing an approved motorcycle safety course or holding medical insurance coverage that covers motorcycle-related injuries.

However, law enforcement officers are not allowed to stop motorcyclists solely to check if they meet the helmet exemption criteria. Texas Transportation Code § 661.003 specifies helmet use and the conditions under which a rider can be exempt from wearing one.

Eyewear Recommendations

In Texas, while there are no specific statewide mandates requiring motorcyclists to wear protective eyewear, riders are strongly encouraged to do so for safety reasons. However, certain regulations may apply under local ordinances or safety guidelines. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and motorcycle safety organizations recommend wearing approved goggles or face shields to protect against road debris, insects, and wind, which can impair vision and increase the risk of motorcycle accidents.

For motorcyclists choosing to ride without a windshield, the Texas DPS advises wearing proper eye protection to ensure clear vision on highways and busy roads. Riders participating in safety courses or insurance programs may also be required to use eye protection in compliance with safety protocols.

Lane Splitting

Texas law does not permit lane splitting, which is the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. Lane splitting is considered illegal, and riders found violating this law may face fines or penalties. While there has been ongoing debate about legalizing lane splitting, it remains prohibited in Texas.

Passenger Laws

Texas law dictates that motorcycles designed to carry passengers must have appropriate seating and footrests for the passenger. Passengers are only allowed on motorcycles that are specifically designed for more than one rider. Texas Transportation Code § 545.416 outlines regulations regarding motorcycle passengers and the requirements for passenger equipment.

Motorcycle Helmet On The Ground In A Car Crash Scene

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

Motorcycles in Texas must meet specific safety and equipment standards to be legally operated on public roads. These requirements include:

Headlights: Motorcycles must have at least one operational headlight that is illuminated both day and night.
Rearview Mirrors: Motorcycles must be equipped with rearview mirrors to ensure visibility.
Brakes: Both front and rear brakes are required.
Muffler: Motorcycles must have a functional muffler to minimize excessive noise.

Texas Transportation Code § 547.801 sets the safety equipment requirements for motorcycles.

No Riding on Sidewalks

Motorcycles are not allowed to be operated on sidewalks in Texas. Riders are required to use designated roads or streets for travel. Our Houston motorcycle accident lawyer at Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers emphasizes adherence to the law because any violations of this law can lead to fines or penalties.

Insurance Requirements

Like all motor vehicles, motorcycles in Texas must carry minimum liability insurance. The minimum coverage amounts, often referred to as 30/60/25 coverage, include:

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

Riders who fail to maintain minimum insurance coverage can face fines, penalties, and license suspension. Texas Transportation Code § 601.051 outlines the state’s mandatory motorcycle insurance requirements.

Laws for Drivers to Ensure Safety of Motorcycle Riders in Houston

At Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, our motorcycle injury attorneys in Houston will use the full force of the state laws designed to ensure that motorists share the road safely with motorcyclists and hold the negligent driver accountable for damages.

Safe Passing and Following Distance

Motorists are required to maintain a safe distance when following or passing motorcycles. Given that motorcycles can stop more quickly than larger vehicles, Texas law emphasizes the need for drivers to avoid tailgating. Additionally, when overtaking a motorcycle, drivers must ensure they provide ample space, particularly as motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane. Texas Transportation Code § 545.053 requires drivers to maintain a safe distance when passing vehicles, including motorcycles.

No Lane Splitting

In Texas, while lane splitting (the practice of motorcyclists driving between lanes of traffic) is prohibited for motorcyclists, drivers also have an obligation to stay in their lanes and avoid encroaching into the lane space of motorcycles. Motorcycles are entitled to the entire lane, and vehicles should not attempt to crowd them out or drive alongside them in the same lane. Texas Transportation Code § 545.060 requires drivers to remain in a single lane and avoid straddling lane lines.

Yielding the Right of Way

Motorists must be particularly cautious when yielding the right of way to motorcycles, especially at intersections and while making left turns. Failure to yield is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Drivers should double-check their blind spots and mirrors for motorcycles before turning or merging lanes. Texas Transportation Code § 545.151 outlines the obligations of drivers to yield the right of way at intersections and other traffic situations.

No Distracted Driving

Texas law prohibits texting while driving or engaging in other forms of distracted driving. This is particularly important when sharing the road with motorcycles, which are smaller and harder to see compared to larger vehicles. Motorists must be alert and aware of their surroundings to prevent collisions with motorcyclists. Texas Transportation Code § 545.4251 bans texting while driving and establishes fines for violators.

DUI and Motorcycle Safety

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of fatal accidents involving motorcyclists. Texas has stringent laws against DUI to protect all road users, including motorcyclists. Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher face serious legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and imprisonment. Texas Penal Code § 49.04 prohibits driving while intoxicated and sets penalties for violations.

Blind Spot Awareness

Given their smaller size, motorcycles are generally hidden in a car or truck’s blind spots, making them more vulnerable to collisions. Texas law does not have specific blind spot regulations, but motorists are required to check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or merging, especially when motorcycles are nearby.

Increased Penalties for Endangering Motorcyclists

In recent years, Texas has introduced stiffer penalties for motorists who endanger motorcyclists through reckless or negligent behavior. This can include aggressive driving, failure to signal lane changes, and road rage incidents directed at motorcyclists. Texas Transportation Code § 545.401 covers reckless driving and sets fines and potential imprisonment for endangering other road users, including motorcyclists.

Motorcycle Awareness Campaigns

While not a specific legal mandate, Texas promotes motorcycle awareness through public campaigns like “Share the Road,” encouraging drivers to be more cautious and look out for motorcyclists. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) runs annual safety campaigns to remind motorists of their responsibilities when driving near motorcycles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Houston

Motorcycle accidents in Houston mostly occur due to the negligent actions of other drivers. The city’s busy streets and highways, coupled with a lack of attention from drivers, put motorcyclists at risk. Many of these accidents can be attributed to various forms of negligence, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities for motorcyclists. Here are common causes of motorcycle accidents due to negligent driving:

Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists at intersections, leading to dangerous collisions.
Distracted Driving: Using phones or other devices while driving takes attention away from the road, increasing the chances of missing a nearby motorcycle.
Unsafe Lane Changes: Motorists who do not check their blind spots may merge into a lane occupied by a motorcyclist, causing a side-swipe or collision.
Speeding: Excessive speed by other vehicles reduces reaction time, making it harder to avoid hitting a motorcyclist.
Tailgating: Following a motorcycle too closely limits the driver’s ability to stop in time if the motorcyclist slows down or stops suddenly.
Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers are more likely to make poor decisions and fail to notice motorcyclists on the road.
Running Red Lights: Drivers running red lights or stop signs may hit motorcyclists who have the right of way.
Left-Turn Accidents: Cars making left turns at intersections without adequately checking for motorcycles can collide with oncoming motorcyclists.

Types of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in Houston, TX

Motorcyclists involved in accidents in Houston may suffer severe and life-altering injuries due to the lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles. Motorcycle accident injuries can range from minor to catastrophic, with long-term consequences for the victims.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma can occur even when helmets are worn, leading to concussions, skull fractures, or severe brain injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord may result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, wrists, and ribs are particularly vulnerable to breaking during a crash.
Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement, which can lead to infections and permanent scarring.
Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma can cause damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs, requiring emergency surgery.
Amputations: Limb loss can occur due to the severity of the injury or as a medical necessity following a crash.
Facial and Dental Injuries: Collisions can cause significant damage to the face, including broken teeth and facial fractures.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden movement during a collision can strain or tear the muscles and ligaments in the neck.
Burns: Motorcyclists may suffer burns if their bike catches fire or if their skin makes contact with hot surfaces after the crash.

Steps You Should Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Houston

After a Texas motorcycle accident, taking the right steps is critical to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and build a strong motorcycle accident claim for your injuries and losses. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Houston recommends the following steps after a bike crash in Houston:

Seek Emergency Assistance: Prioritize your health by checking for injuries and calling emergency services immediately.
Move to a Safe Area: If possible, move to a safe location to avoid further injury, but leave your bike in its original position if it is safe to do so.
Contact Law Enforcement: If police do not arrive at the scene, report the accident to the police to create an official record of the incident.
Collect Information: Gather contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details of the other party involved in the accident.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Get Witness Information: Get the contact information of any potential witnesses who saw the accident unfold. Witness testimony may prove critical in your personal injury lawsuit later on.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not discuss your Houston motorcycle accident case in detail or admit fault, even casually, when talking to insurance adjusters or anyone at the crash site.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation to identify any potential injuries that may not be immediately apparent.
Notify Your Insurance Company: In injury-related or fatal motorcycle accidents, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, providing only basic facts.
Avoid Direct Negotiations: Do not engage directly with the insurance adjusters regarding your potential motorcycle accident lawsuit and avoid accepting quick lowball settlement offers.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Consult our motorcycle crash lawyers in Houston to understand your rights and begin the process of seeking compensation for damages.

Motorcycle Bias in Houston Bike Accident Claims

Motorcyclists in Houston may face certain biases that can impact the outcome of their accident claims. These stereotypes, commonly referred to as “motorcycle bias,” are prevalent in several key areas. In the experience of our Houston motorcycle accident attorney, these biases may stem from societal perceptions of motorcyclists as risk-takers, rule-breakers, or inherently reckless, making it harder for them to receive fair treatment during the investigation, claim, and trial processes.

Police Officer Bias

Police officers, who are often the first on the scene of an accident, play a crucial role in determining fault and issuing traffic citations. However, they may carry inherent biases against motorcyclists due to stereotypes that motorcyclists are more reckless than drivers of other vehicles. This bias can lead to the assumption that the motorcyclist was speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or engaging in dangerous behaviors, even without clear evidence. As a result, accident reports may reflect this prejudice, making it more challenging for motorcyclists to prove they were not at fault.

Example: A motorcyclist involved in a collision at an intersection might be blamed for “riding too fast,” even if the other driver failed to yield the right of way. Such bias in police reports can negatively influence the claim, as insurers and courts rely on these documents.

Witness Bias

Eyewitnesses to motorcycle accidents may also exhibit bias. Motorcycles, being smaller and faster than cars, can be perceived as more aggressive on the road. This perception can cloud witness recollections, leading them to believe the motorcyclist was speeding or riding dangerously when they may not have been. Witnesses might unconsciously assign more blame to the motorcyclist simply due to the vehicle type.

Example: In a collision where both vehicles attempted to merge into the same lane, a witness might mistakenly recall the motorcyclist as the aggressor simply because they “appeared” to be speeding, even if the motorcyclist was obeying traffic laws.

Insurer Bias

Insurance companies are profit-driven entities, and when dealing with motorcycle accident claims, they may use the stereotype of the “reckless motorcyclist” to reduce payouts. Insurers often assume that motorcyclists are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, making it easier for them to deny claims or offer low settlements. They may also argue that motorcyclists have a higher degree of fault in the accident, even when evidence suggests otherwise.

Example: A motorcyclist who was struck by a distracted driver might receive a lower settlement offer because the insurer argues that the motorcyclist was partially at fault for “not being visible enough” or “not riding defensively,” despite the driver’s negligence.

Man Laying On The Road Next To A Motorcycle

Juror Bias

If a motorcycle accident case goes to trial, juror bias can significantly affect the verdict. Jurors, who may have little to no experience riding motorcycles, might hold negative views of motorcyclists due to media portrayals of them as reckless or rebellious. These preconceived notions can skew their judgment, leading them to assume the motorcyclist was partially or entirely at fault, regardless of the facts presented during the trial.

Example: During trial deliberations, jurors may be influenced by personal experiences or societal narratives about “dangerous motorcyclists,” causing them to question the motorcyclist’s credibility or assume they were riding unsafely, even if the evidence clearly supports the motorcyclist’s account of the accident.

How Our Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Will Protect Your Right to Compensation

When motorcycle accident claims in Houston are affected by biases, our Houston motorcycle accident attorneys at Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers will use aggressive legal strategies to counteract these prejudices. We focus on gathering irrefutable legal evidence, crafting compelling legal arguments, and addressing any preconceived notions the other side may use against motorcyclists. Here’s how we work to overcome these biases and establish liability of the negligent drivers in car, truck or multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents.

Challenging Police Officer Bias with Comprehensive Evidence

Police officers at the accident scene may attribute fault to motorcyclists based on stereotypes, assuming that they were speeding or driving recklessly. To counteract this, our attorneys work closely with accident reconstruction experts to objectively analyze the crash scene. By using evidence like skid marks, vehicle damage, photos and videos, and surveillance footage, we can challenge an officer’s assumption. For instance, if the police report suggests you were speeding but the damage patterns and witness statements indicate otherwise, we will dispute this bias by presenting clear, fact-based evidence.

Legal Argument: We argue that while police reports provide an important initial account of the accident, they are not definitive proof of fault. Courts must consider all available evidence in a Houston motorcycle injury case, not just a potentially flawed police report.

Overcoming Witness Bias with Expert Testimony and Accident Reconstruction

Witnesses may perceive motorcyclists as inherently more dangerous, making it easy for them to attribute blame. To overcome this, our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Houston scrutinize each witness’s account for inconsistencies or bias. We secure testimony from neutral third parties and experts in accident reconstruction to provide a balanced view of what occurred. Expert testimony can often refute biased eyewitnesses by presenting a scientific breakdown of the accident.

Legal Argument: Our Texas motorcycle accident attorney emphasizes the objective nature of expert testimony over subjective, potentially biased witness accounts, arguing that liability should be based on facts rather than personal perceptions.

Countering Insurer Bias by Presenting a Strong Case

Insurance companies often rely on motorcycle biases to deny claims or reduce payouts, assuming that the motorcyclist was at fault due to reckless behavior. We counter this by treating every case as though it will go to trial, which forces the insurer to take the claim seriously. From the outset, we collect comprehensive evidence, including medical records, expert reports, and detailed accident analyses that establish the negligent driver’s liability.

Legal Argument: We aggressively push back against insurers’ attempts to devalue a claim by presenting overwhelming evidence that shifts the focus to the other driver’s negligence, whether due to distracted driving, failing to yield, or other traffic violations.

Addressing Juror Bias with Evidence and Persuasive Advocacy

Juror bias can present a challenge if your case goes to trial, as jurors may hold negative stereotypes about motorcyclists being risk-takers. Our attorneys work to dismantle these biases by focusing on the facts of the case, rather than the mode of transportation. We carefully present your side of the story, using expert testimony, surveillance footage, and crash data to show that you were following traffic laws and that the other driver was negligent.

Legal Argument: We emphasize that the law applies equally to all road users, and the case must be decided based on the actions of the drivers involved, not on assumptions about motorcyclists. By framing the argument this way, we reduce the impact of juror bias.

Using Medical Evidence to Refute Claims of Pre-existing Injuries

Insurers often argue that injuries sustained in the accident were pre-existing or not as severe as claimed, another common bias in motorcycle accident cases. To combat this, we work with medical experts to establish the full extent of your injuries and how they were directly caused by the accident. We gather comprehensive medical records, obtain expert testimony, and utilize imaging scans to prove the correlation between the accident and your injuries.

Legal Argument: By presenting thorough medical evidence, we counter insurers’ claims of pre-existing conditions, proving that the defendant’s actions were the proximate cause of your injuries.

Proving Negligence through Clear Liability Standards

Motorcycle accident cases are governed by Texas’ negligence laws and proving liability involves showing that the other driver failed to exercise reasonable care. We focus on gathering evidence like traffic camera footage, cell phone records (to prove distracted driving), and testimonies from traffic engineers. By doing this, we can build a strong case that the other driver violated traffic laws or acted recklessly, which led to the accident.

Legal Argument: We apply Texas’ standard negligence framework, which requires proving duty of care, breach, causation, and damages. Through compelling evidence, we demonstrate that the negligent driver’s actions led to your injuries, entitling you to full compensation under Texas law (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code).

Establishing the Injured Motorcyclist’s History of Safe Riding

One key strategy our attorneys use to counter biases in motorcycle accident claims is by demonstrating that the injured motorcyclist has a consistent record of safe riding and a strong commitment to adhering to traffic laws. By presenting the motorcyclist’s documented history of responsible behavior, we can directly challenge any preconceived notions of reckless riding or thrill-seeking.

Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston will compile records such as:

Motorcycle safety course certifications.
Evidence of compliance with state safety requirements, such as wearing helmets and using proper safety gear.
Clean driving records that reflect a lack of traffic violations or past accidents.
Proof of proper motorcycle maintenance, which can demonstrate that the motorcyclist took safety precautions seriously.

Testimonies to Show the Injured Motorcyclist is Not a Dangerous Thrill-Seeker

In addition to documented evidence, we gather testimonies from credible witnesses who can vouch for the motorcyclist’s character and responsible driving habits. This might include statements from:

Fellow riders, friends, and family members who can speak to the motorcyclist’s cautious nature on the road.
Employers or colleagues who can testify to the motorcyclist’s reliability and careful behavior.
Neighbors or community members who are familiar with the motorcyclist’s regular, law-abiding commuting habits.

By providing these personal testimonies, we humanize the injured victim and dismantle the narrative that motorcyclists are inherently reckless. These testimonies, coupled with hard evidence, shift the focus from bias to the negligent actions of the other driver, helping secure the compensation the motorcyclist deserves.

Choose Our Houston, TX Motorcycle Accident Lawyers to Maximize Your Compensation

Proven Success: Over $500 million won for our clients, demonstrating our ability to secure large settlements and verdicts.
Skilled Legal Representation: Our team comprises experienced personal injury lawyers skilled in handling a wide range of cases, including complex motorcycle crashes.
Client-Centered Approach: Attorney Amanda Demanda listens attentively to your needs, organizes all the facts and evidence, and aggressively pursues your rightful compensation.
Dedicated Advocacy: Our Houston motorcycle wreck lawyers are committed to guiding you through the legal process, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
Wide Recognition: Amanda Demanda is recognized as a trailblazer in the courtroom and during settlement negotiations, establishing our firm as a top name in Texas.
Award-Winning Firm: Honored as the Best Personal Injury Law Firm, our commitment to legal excellence and personalized representation has earned us the trust of our clients.
No Win, No Fee: We operate on a contingency fee basis—you only pay if we win your case, ensuring you can pursue justice without financial risk.

Choose Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers to fight for your rights and let us help you reclaim your life after an accident. To schedule your free consultation, call us 24/7 at 1-844-DEMANDA or contact us online.

Abogados para Latinos - At Amanda Demanda Injury Lawyers, we understand the importance of having legal representation that speaks your language and understands your culture. That’s why we have a dedicated team of native Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff who are ready to assist you. We are proud to serve Miami's vibrant Hispanic community, offering compassionate and culturally sensitive legal services in both English and Spanish. Whether you're more comfortable speaking Spanish or simply want a Spanish-fluent lawyer who understands the unique challenges faced by Latinos, our team is here to provide you with the support and expertise you need to navigate the legal system with confidence.