Abilene Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been in a truck accident in San Angelo, we understand that dealing with injuries, medical bills, and lost wages can be overwhelming. Our San Angelo truck accident lawyer is here to listen and help you through it.
Motorcycle accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, you need an experienced advocate who truly understands your struggles.
An Abilene motorcycle accident lawyer from Keith & Lorfing can offer the legal support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
Our team is here to listen and provide the compassionate support you deserve. We know how overwhelming it can be to navigate medical bills, insurance claims, and the emotional toll of an accident.
Do You Have a Potential Motorcycle Accident Claim?
To pursue a motorcycle accident claim, four key elements must be established:
- Duty of Care: The responsible party had an obligation to operate their vehicle safely and avoid causing harm.
- Breach of Duty: This duty was violated through negligent actions or reckless behavior.
- Causation: The breach directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered tangible damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Damages You Can Recover As Motorcycle Riders
You may be entitled to various types of damages if you’re involved in an accident.
- Economic Damages: These damages cover tangible financial losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. If your injury has led to significant expenses or impacted your earning ability, economic damages aim to compensate you for these out-of-pocket costs.
- Non-Economic Damages address the more subjective aspects of your suffering. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages recognize an accident’s profound impact on your quality of life and overall well-being.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the at-fault party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded. Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
Who Can You Hold Liable in Motorcycle Accident Cases?
When you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, figuring out who is responsible is important for seeking compensation. Here’s a breakdown of who you might be able to hold accountable:
- Car Drivers: If a car driver’s negligence or reckless behavior caused the accident, they can be held liable.
- City Transportation Authorities: If poor road conditions or lack of proper signage contributed to the accident, the city or local transportation authorities might be at fault.
- Bus Drivers: When a bus driver’s actions lead to an accident, such as improper lane changes or speeding, they can be held accountable.
- Truck Drivers: If a truck driver was negligent—like driving too long without rest, speeding, or not securing cargo properly—they can be held liable for the crash.
- Property Owners: If a property owner has an obstruction or hazard on their property that extends into the roadway and causes an accident, they could be held responsible. Examples include overgrown vegetation or a poorly placed sign that blocks a driver’s view.
- Vehicle Component Manufacturers: If a defect in a motorcycle or vehicle part caused the accident, the manufacturer of that component might be liable, including faulty brakes, tires, or any other critical part that failed and led to the crash.
- Government Agencies: In some cases, government agencies might be held responsible if their actions or negligence contributed to the accident, including failures in road design, maintenance, or other safety measures.
Identifying the right party to hold liable can be complex, but it’s essential for pursuing a fair settlement or judgment.
Consulting with a personal injury attorney from our law firm can help you determine who should be held responsible for your motorcycle accident.
How to Contact Us
Here are the best ways to reach out to us:
- Telephone: Call us at 325-241-9286 for immediate assistance and to discuss your case.
- Contact Form: Fill out our contact form for a quick and easy way to get in touch.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and explore your options. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Keith & Lorfing: Abilene Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
What distinguishes our firm is the unity and dedication of our team, all focused on leveling the playing field for hard-working West Texans.
At Keith & Lorfing, our attorneys and legal professionals share a deep commitment to justice, knowing that each case we handle is a fight for something greater than ourselves.
We work together seamlessly, drawing on our collective experience—over 75 years and more than 500 jury trials—to support and advocate for our clients. Here, you’re not just a case; you’re embraced as family by a team that truly values every member.
How Our Abilene Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Can Help
At our Abilene motorcycle accident law firm, everything we do is driven by a deep commitment to championing the rights of working-class Texans. Here’s how our team can support you throughout your claim:
- Types of Cases: We handle all kinds of motorcycle accident cases, from collisions and single-vehicle crashes to accidents caused by road hazards or defective parts.
- Recovering Lost Wages: We work to get you compensation for lost wages so you can focus on recovery without financial stress.
- Medical Bills: We fight to cover your medical expenses, relieving the financial burden of necessary care.
- Property Damage: We help recover costs for repairing or replacing your damaged motorcycle and personal property.
- Emotional Recovery: We support claims for emotional distress and psychological trauma caused by the accident.
- Insurance Negotiations: We negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers all your losses.
- Legal Guidance: We provide clear, compassionate guidance to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At our core, our commitment is to advocate for working-class Texans with the same dedication and care we bring to every case. Our attorneys come from backgrounds of hard work and modest beginnings, reflecting the values of the communities we serve.
We’re here to support you through every challenge, ensuring we achieve the best possible outcome for you — fair treatment and justice you deserve.
Important Initial Advice After a Motorcycle Crash
After a motorcycle accident, your actions are essential for both your recovery and potential legal claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention and Follow Advice: Always attend your medical appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations, even if your injuries seem minor. Proper documentation is essential for both healing and your claim.
- Stay Off Social Media: Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries online. Insurance companies monitor social media and may use your posts against you.
- Don’t Accept the First Insurance Offer: Insurance companies often lowball the first offer. Speak with an attorney before agreeing to any settlement to ensure it’s fair.
- Watch Your Words With Insurance: When speaking with adjusters, be cautious and stick to the facts. Anything you say can be used to reduce your compensation.
- Contact Our Abilene Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Speak to an attorney from Keith & Lorfing as soon as possible. We can work hard to protect your rights, handle negotiations, and ensure you meet filing deadlines.
Deadlines to Get the Compensation You Deserve
In Texas, you have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a claim. This law is called the statute of limitations, and it’s the legal deadline for taking action.
If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to get compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other costs.
It’s important not to wait too long. Evidence can disappear, and witnesses might be harder to find. Insurance companies may also try to offer you less if you delay.
Gathering Evidence After Being Involved in a Motorcycle Accident
Gathering evidence is necessary to build a strong case. Here’s the evidence you should start collecting as soon as possible:
- Police Reports: Obtain a copy of the police report, which contains important details about the accident.
- Medical Records: Keep all medical documentation related to your injuries, treatments, and recovery.
- Eyewitness Statements: Get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident and can provide statements.
- Photo/Video Evidence: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries, as they can help illustrate what happened.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, our payment comes as a percentage of the compensation we recover for you.
If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything. This approach allows you to pursue justice without worrying about the financial burden.
We believe everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. Our goal is to ease your stress so you can focus on recovery, not legal fees.
General Information on Motorcycle Accidents in Abilene
Motorcycle accidents in Abilene can happen for many reasons, from distracted drivers to hazardous road conditions. As a motorcyclist, you’re more vulnerable on the road, and accidents can lead to serious injuries.
Texas Motorcycle Laws
Here’s what you need to know about accident laws in the state of Texas:
- Helmet Use: Helmet use is mandatory for motorcycle riders under 21 in Texas. Riders 21 or older can choose not to wear a helmet if they have completed a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) approved motorcycle safety course or carry a minimum amount of medical insurance coverage.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is illegal in Texas. Motorcyclists must stay within their designated lane and adhere to all traffic laws.
- Motorcycle Licensing: To legally operate a motorcycle in Texas, you must have a Class M license. This requires passing a written test and a riding skills test or completing a DPS-approved motorcycle safety course.
- Safety Gear: Although helmets are not required for riders over 21 if they meet certain conditions, other safety gear is strongly recommended. Texas law mandates that motorcyclists wear eye protection unless their motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
- Headlights: Texas law requires that motorcycles have their headlights on at all times while riding, day or night. This helps increase visibility and safety on the road.
- Passenger Requirements: When carrying a passenger, the motorcycle must be equipped with a proper seat and footrests. Passengers under 21 must wear a helmet.
- Insurance Requirements: Texas law mandates that motorcyclists carry liability insurance with minimum coverage limits. This insurance helps cover damages and injuries in the event of an accident.
An experienced Abilene motorcycle accident lawyer from our law firm will provide valuable guidance and support if you have any questions or need assistance after an accident.
Texas Insurance Requirements
In Texas, insurance requirements for motorcyclists and drivers are designed to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Comparative Fault
Texas follows a comparative fault system, meaning that if you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
Texas is not a no-fault state, so you can pursue compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance if you are injured in an accident.
Minimum Insurance Coverage Limits and Requirements
- Liability Insurance: Texas law requires a minimum of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 for bodily injury per accident (when multiple people are injured), and $25,000 for property damage.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: While not required, it’s highly recommended to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance or is uninsured.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Texas does not mandate Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, PIP can cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who is at fault if you choose to purchase it.
- Motorcycle-Specific Requirements: Motorcycles must be insured under the same liability requirements as cars.
- Proof of Insurance: It is mandatory to carry proof of insurance at all times while operating a motorcycle or vehicle. This proof should be presented to law enforcement if requested.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Riding a motorcycle comes with significant risks. In fact, motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a fatal crash compared to other drivers. Additionally, they are four times more likely to suffer injuries in a collision.
Motorcycle accidents can result from a variety of factors, often involving both rider and driver behavior:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting or using their phones can easily overlook motorcyclists.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Improper Lane Changes: Failure to check blind spots or signal can lead to collisions with motorcycles.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers not yielding the right-of-way can cause dangerous intersection accidents.
- Road Hazards: Poor road conditions, such as potholes or debris, can pose serious risks for motorcyclists.
In Texas, motorcycle accidents are a significant concern, with over 8,000 motorcycle crashes reported in 2022 alone.
Types of Injuries We See as Lawyers
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe and life-changing injuries. Here’s a look at the most common types:
- Road Rash: Painful abrasions from sliding on the road, ranging from minor to severe.
- Degloving: Severe injury where skin and tissue are forcibly removed, exposing underlying structures.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Can cause partial or complete paralysis and require extensive medical care.
- Head and Neck Injuries: Includes concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries, even with helmet use.
- Arm Injuries: Fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue damage that impact arm mobility and strength.
- Leg Injuries: Often includes fractures and severe bruising, which may require surgery and rehabilitation.
- Broken Bones: Common fractures include arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, resulting from high-impact collisions.
- Amputation: In severe cases, limbs may need to be amputated, leading to significant physical and emotional impacts.
- Paralysis: Resulting from spinal injuries, it can affect the lower body (paraplegia) or all four limbs (quadriplegia).
- Fatalities: Motorcycle accidents can be fatal; Texas saw over 500 motorcycle-related deaths in 2022 alone.
Other Locations We Serve
As expert Texas personal injury attorneys, we cover the entirety of West Texas, including but not limited to:
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Abilene, TX, Today!
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Our dedicated team of Abilene motorcycle accident lawyers is ready to stand by your side and fight for the justice and compensation you need. We understand the tough road you’re on, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today at 325-241-9286 for 24/7 service.
We Are
West Texas Strong
Our commitment is to stand up for hardworking Texans who have been affected by truck accidents. Our team, rooted in humble beginnings, values hard work – with family histories of farmers, mechanics, laborers, firefighters, and servicemen. This heritage drives our dedication.
We deliberately choose not to represent corporations or the elite. Instead, we fight for everyday West Texans, often taking on big trucking companies and their insurers who try to short-change you. Our mission is to level the playing field, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Trey Keith
Founding Partner Meet Trey
Russell Lorfing
Founding Partner Meet Russell
&
3 Things you’ll get With Keith & Lorfing
A Lawyer Will Answer Your Calls & Emails
You’ll Be Informed About Your Case Every Step of the Way
You’ll Be Treated With Compassion & Respect
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We’re committed to being the best in the West! Proudly serving clients throughout Abilene, Lubbock, San Angelo, Midland & all of West Texas.
