Motorcycle accidents in Fort Worth can change your life in an instant. A ride on I-35, a daily commute along I-20, or a night out near the Stockyards can quickly turn dangerous when another driver makes a careless mistake. Riders have little protection from the force of a collision, and the aftermath often brings serious injuries, financial stress, and overwhelming uncertainty.
Many families struggle to balance medical treatment, time away from work, and the pressure of dealing with insurance companies. Questions about fault, coverage, and compensation only add to the stress. At Patterson Law Group, we understand the challenges riders face and provide guidance to help you move forward. Keep reading to find out what motorcycle accident claims involve, what Texas law requires, and how our team supports injured riders and their loved ones.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group for Motorcycle Accident Cases
Our firm has built a different approach to motorcycle accident representation. Instead of chasing high case numbers, we focus on giving each client the personal care and consistent communication they deserve. That difference shows up in how we manage our caseload, the access you have to our attorneys, and the level of support we provide beyond the courtroom.
Personalized Attention Through Selective Caseloads
We believe quality representation comes from focus, not volume. Our firm takes on fewer cases so we can devote the time and resources needed to build strong motorcycle accident claims. You will not be shuffled into a system where you feel like another file number. Instead, your story and your recovery guide how we approach your case from day one.
Direct Access to Attorneys
When you reach out to us, you will have direct access to an attorney, not just a case manager or assistant. That access continues throughout your case. If you have questions, concerns, or need an update, your lawyer will be available to speak with you. This level of communication helps reduce stress and ensures you always know what is happening with your claim.
Support Beyond Legal Representation
Recovering from a motorcycle crash often involves more than legal filings. Many riders need help finding trusted doctors, arranging follow-up care, or dealing with property damage. Our firm provides practical support, from medical referrals to guidance with repair shops and insurance paperwork. By easing these burdens, we allow you to focus on your health and family.
Deep Ties to the Fort Worth Community
We live and work in Fort Worth, which gives us insight into local roads, courts, and resources. Whether your accident occurred near West 7th, along Loop 820, or in a suburban neighborhood, we know the challenges these areas present for riders. Our commitment to community safety and client advocacy reflects our dedication to helping Fort Worth families rebuild after serious crashes.
Motorcycle Accidents in Fort Worth: Local Roads and Risks
The design and traffic patterns of Fort Worth create unique risks for motorcyclists. Highways such as I-30 and I-35 carry heavy traffic throughout the day, and the mix of passenger cars, large trucks, and motorcycles often leads to dangerous conditions. Riders also face congestion around entertainment districts and areas with heavy nightlife traffic, including West 7th and the Stockyards, where distracted or impaired driving is more common.
Suburban routes add another layer of danger. Roads leading through neighborhoods or rural edges of Tarrant County often encourage speeding, and sudden intersections or poorly maintained pavement can create hazards for motorcyclists. The combination of traffic density in the city and unpredictable conditions in outlying areas makes Fort Worth a particularly challenging place to ride safely.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Tarrant County
Motorcycle collisions are almost always preventable. When another driver acts carelessly or road conditions are ignored, riders are the ones who face the most serious consequences. Understanding these common causes can help explain how liability is established and why strong legal action is often necessary.
Distracted or Inattentive Drivers
Cell phone use, adjusting vehicle controls, or even conversations with passengers can pull a driver’s attention from the road. For motorcyclists, even a momentary lapse of focus can mean the difference between safety and a devastating crash. Because motorcycles are less visible, distracted drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the rider, but the law requires them to remain attentive at all times.
Unsafe Lane Changes and Blind Spots
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, which means drivers must check carefully before switching lanes. Too often, motorists assume a lane is clear without looking twice, causing side-swipe or cut-off collisions that leave riders no room to react. These situations frequently happen on crowded highways like I-30 or I-35, where traffic moves quickly and blind spots are larger.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Excessive speed reduces the time drivers have to respond to motorcycles, especially at intersections or on busy city streets. Reckless maneuvers such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, or running red lights put riders at severe risk of being struck. Speed-related crashes also tend to cause more serious injuries because of the greater force of impact.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence remains a leading cause of serious crashes in Tarrant County. Motorcyclists have little protection against impaired drivers, who often make dangerous decisions at intersections or fail to yield the right of way. Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time and impair judgment, making them especially hazardous for vulnerable riders.
Road Hazards and Poor Maintenance
Loose gravel, potholes, or debris may be minor annoyances for cars but can be catastrophic for motorcycles. Poorly maintained roads or construction zones without proper warnings create sudden dangers that riders cannot always avoid. These hazards are often overlooked in accident reports, but they can play a major role in determining who is responsible.
Injuries Riders Often Face After a Collision
The physical impact of a motorcycle accident is often severe. Unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists do not have the protection of a steel frame, airbags, or seatbelts. The injuries they sustain are frequently life-changing and may require months, years, or even a lifetime of care.
Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions
Head injuries remain among the most dangerous outcomes of motorcycle crashes. Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or more severe brain trauma that affects memory, concentration, and long-term cognitive function. These injuries often have lasting effects on daily life and work capacity.
Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis
The force of a collision can compress or fracture the spine, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong care, rehabilitation, and major adjustments to daily life. They also carry significant financial costs for specialized treatment and home modifications.
Broken Bones, Crush Injuries, and Amputations
Motorcycle crashes frequently cause fractures to arms, legs, and ribs. In severe cases, crush injuries from being pinned under a vehicle may require surgical intervention or even amputation. These injuries can limit mobility, cause chronic pain, and prevent riders from returning to work.
Road Rash, Burns, and Permanent Scarring
When riders are thrown from their motorcycles, sliding across pavement can remove skin and muscle tissue, creating painful injuries that often require grafting. Severe burns from fuel spills or fires may also occur, leaving lasting scars. These injuries are not only physically painful but can also create emotional trauma tied to visible disfigurement.
Emotional Trauma and PTSD
The psychological effects of a motorcycle crash are just as real as physical injuries. Many riders experience post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or depression that interferes with their ability to return to work, ride again, or enjoy life fully. Treatment may involve counseling, medication, and ongoing support, all of which should be considered part of a full recovery.
Texas Laws Affecting Motorcycle Accident Claims
Texas law shapes every motorcycle accident claim, from how injuries are evaluated to how compensation is awarded. Riders and families should understand several important rules that influence these cases.
Helmet Laws in Texas
State law requires riders under 21 to wear helmets. Riders over 21 may legally ride without one if they carry specific health insurance coverage. While the absence of a helmet does not prevent you from filing a claim, insurance companies often argue that it contributed to the severity of injuries, which can complicate settlement negotiations.
Lane Use and Lane Splitting
Texas does not permit lane splitting, which is the practice of riding between two lanes of traffic. If a crash occurs while a rider is lane splitting, insurers may use that fact to reduce or deny compensation. Understanding how these restrictions apply is important when building a claim.
Insurance Requirements and Coverage Minimums
Texas drivers must carry liability insurance, but the required minimum coverage is often far less than what is needed after a serious motorcycle crash. Medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation expenses can quickly surpass policy limits, leaving victims searching for additional recovery options.
Comparative Fault Rules in Texas
Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your share of responsibility. If that share exceeds 50 percent, you may lose the ability to recover damages altogether. This rule makes it essential to have strong evidence and legal advocacy when insurers attempt to shift blame onto riders.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in North Texas
The days following a motorcycle accident are often filled with confusion, stress, and difficult decisions. Between medical appointments, repair bills, and calls from insurance adjusters, it can be hard to know what to do first. Taking the right steps can help protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your legal claim.
Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Care
Your health is the most important priority. Motorcycle crashes often result in injuries that are not immediately visible, such as concussions, internal bleeding, or nerve damage. Seeking care quickly ensures those conditions are diagnosed and treated before they worsen. Prompt medical records also provide a clear link between your injuries and the accident, which helps prevent insurers from questioning the cause.
File and Obtain a Police Report
In Texas, accidents that result in injury or significant property damage must be reported to law enforcement. Officers who respond to the scene prepare an official crash report, which often includes diagrams, witness details, and preliminary assessments of fault. Having a copy of this report strengthens your claim because it documents what happened from an independent perspective.
Gather Witness Statements and Photos
Details of an accident can fade quickly, and witness recollections may change over time. Collecting names and contact information early allows your attorney to secure accurate statements later. Photographs and videos of the vehicles, skid marks, traffic signals, and visible injuries provide additional evidence that can counter attempts by insurers to downplay the seriousness of your case.
Notify Your Insurance Company Carefully
You must report the accident to your insurer, but the way you communicate is critical. Provide only the necessary details—time, location, and parties involved—without speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries. Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts, and even well-intentioned comments can be used against you. Many riders find it helpful to let their attorney guide or handle these conversations to avoid mistakes.
Speak With a Fort Worth Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Early
Contacting an attorney as soon as possible helps protect your rights. A lawyer can obtain crash reports, interview witnesses, and preserve critical evidence before it disappears. They also manage communication with insurers so you do not feel pressured into quick settlements. Early involvement gives you peace of mind and ensures your claim is built on a solid foundation.
Who May Be Liable in a Fort Worth Motorcycle Crash
Determining liability in motorcycle accident cases often involves more than pointing to the other driver. Several parties may share responsibility, and identifying all of them is essential to recovering full compensation.
Negligent Car or Truck Drivers
Drivers who fail to yield, speed, or drive while distracted remain the most common cause of motorcycle accidents. When motorists ignore traffic laws or fail to check blind spots, they can be held liable for the injuries they cause.
Commercial Employers of Drivers
If the negligent driver was operating a company vehicle, their employer may also bear responsibility. Employers can be liable for negligent hiring practices, inadequate training, or pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic schedules that lead to unsafe behavior on the road.
Manufacturers of Defective Parts or Helmets
Sometimes a crash is caused or made worse by faulty equipment. Defective brakes, tires, or protective gear may contribute to serious injuries. In these cases, the manufacturer or distributor may be held accountable through a product liability claim.
Local Governments Responsible for Road Maintenance
Poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or unsafe construction zones can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Local or state governments responsible for maintaining safe road conditions may be liable if hazardous conditions played a role in the accident.
How Insurance Companies Handle Motorcycle Accident Claims
Dealing with insurers after a motorcycle crash can be one of the most frustrating parts of recovery. Their goal is to limit payouts, not to provide fair compensation. Understanding their tactics helps you avoid being taken advantage of.
Quick Settlements That Undervalue Losses
Adjusters often offer money within days of an accident. While the amount may seem tempting, it usually covers only immediate expenses and ignores long-term medical needs or lost earning capacity. Accepting too soon can leave you without the resources you need later.
Suggesting Injuries Are Pre-Existing
Insurers may claim your injuries existed before the accident. They often comb through medical records to find anything that can be used to deny coverage. Strong documentation and medical evaluations are critical to counter these arguments.
Delaying Claims to Pressure Riders
Another common tactic is creating delays. Adjusters may repeatedly request additional documents or postpone responses in the hope you will grow frustrated and accept a lower settlement. These delays add unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.
Shifting Blame Onto Motorcyclists
Insurers sometimes argue that riders caused or contributed to the crash, relying on stereotypes about motorcyclists being reckless. Without legal representation, it can be difficult to challenge these claims and protect your right to fair compensation.
Damages Available to Motorcycle Accident Victims
The losses from a motorcycle accident extend far beyond medical bills. Texas law allows injured riders to pursue several categories of damages, reflecting both financial costs and the personal toll of the crash. These damages are meant to restore not only your finances, but also your sense of stability and quality of life after a devastating event.
Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs
You may recover the cost of emergency care, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. If your injuries require future medical treatment, those expenses can also be included in your claim. Documenting every stage of care, from hospital visits to ongoing therapy, helps ensure that no cost is overlooked when pursuing compensation.
Lost Wages and Reduced Future Earning Capacity
Serious injuries often prevent riders from returning to work right away. Some can no longer perform the same job or work the same hours as before. Compensation can cover both immediate lost wages and projected future income losses. These damages recognize the impact on your career and the lasting financial strain injuries can place on your household.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Motorcycle accidents frequently cause severe pain, ongoing discomfort, and reduced quality of life. These damages account for the physical impact of injuries that extend far beyond medical bills. They acknowledge the daily challenges of living with chronic pain and the way those difficulties diminish your ability to enjoy normal activities.
Emotional and Psychological Harm
Emotional trauma is a common consequence of motorcycle accidents. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress can interfere with relationships, sleep, and daily activities. Texas law recognizes these damages as part of a full recovery. Seeking professional counseling and keeping records of your struggles can help demonstrate the full scope of your suffering.
Property Damage for Motorcycles and Gear
In addition to personal injuries, you may also recover the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and damaged gear such as helmets, jackets, or riding equipment. These claims ensure that the financial impact of the accident extends to your property as well as your health. Including gear and safety equipment in your claim reflects the real value of what was lost.
How Our Lawyers Help Riders and Families Recover
At Patterson Law Group, we understand the challenges riders face after a serious accident. Our approach is built on thorough preparation, compassionate support, and a commitment to pursuing fair outcomes for every client. By handling the legal details, we allow you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life with confidence.
Investigating Accidents and Gathering Evidence
We collect crash reports, witness statements, and photographic evidence to reconstruct what happened. This investigative process ensures no detail is overlooked and strengthens your position during negotiations. Comprehensive investigations also help us challenge inaccurate insurer arguments and uncover all potential sources of liability.
Working With Medical Experts and Life Care Planners
Medical documentation is critical in motorcycle cases. We work with doctors, rehabilitation specialists, and life care planners to fully understand the long-term impact of your injuries. Their input helps us calculate the true value of your claim. This collaboration allows us to present clear evidence of your medical needs both now and in the future.
Negotiating Firmly With Insurers
Insurance companies often resist fair settlements in motorcycle cases. Our team pushes back against undervalued offers and uses evidence to demonstrate the full extent of your losses. Our goal is to secure compensation that reflects your current and future needs. We negotiate from a position of strength, making it clear that we are prepared to fight for the best possible outcome.
Preparing Every Case for Trial if Necessary
While many claims settle outside of court, we prepare each case as though it will go to trial. This readiness ensures that insurers know we are serious about protecting your rights and that you have strong representation in the event litigation becomes necessary. Having a trial-focused strategy from the start gives you leverage during negotiations and peace of mind that your case is fully protected.
Speak With Fort Worth Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
A motorcycle accident can change every part of your life, from your health to your ability to work and provide for your family. You do not have to face the recovery process alone. At Patterson Law Group, we offer free consultations so you can understand your options without financial pressure. Our team works on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, reach out today. We will listen to your story, explain the legal process in clear terms, and stand beside you every step of the way. Contact Patterson Law Group to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding with confidence and support.
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