San Antonio is a biker’s paradise with great weather, beautiful scenery, and nearly endless roads. From the Twisted Sisters Route to the northwest to the San Antonio Loop Around, which twists through the city’s hills, you can explore and enjoy the open road for days.
Unfortunately, as the area calls to more and more biker enthusiasts, the rate of accidents, injuries, and fatalities continues to show alarming numbers.
While motorcycle accidents only made up approximately 1.1% of San Antonio’s 48,792 traffic accidents in 2022, according to the Crash Records Information System (C.R.I.S.), this still represents almost 350 collisions.
At Patterson Law Group, our experienced San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers understand how these can impact victims and their families. Our team is ready to help you understand and protect your rights while pursuing fair compensation.
Common Causes of San Antonio Motorcycle Accidents
San Antonio has stringent requirements for obtaining a license to operate a motorcycle. The Class M driver’s license (motorcycle license) requires the following:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Proof of Texas residency
- Proof of Insurance
- Certificate of completion from an approved motorcycle safety course
- Valid motorcycle license from another state (this waives the need for the motorcycle safety course)
For minors, the rules and requirements are more stringent. For those aged 15 to 17, before enrolling in the motorcycle safety course, they must either:
- Have a Class C learner license and completed the 3-hour classroom portion of a driver education course; or
- Have a certificate of completion for the 32-hour classroom portion of a driver education course; or
- Have a provisional driver’s license.
Minors who want to apply for a Motorcycle Class M license must be at least 15 years old, complete the requirements for an original applicant, and have an MSB-8 or MSB-8R completion certificate. They must also have one of the following:
- The DE-964 form verifying 32 hours of completed classroom time; or
- Class C learner license; or
- Class C Provisional license.
The applicant needs a VOE with a signature from their high school, must be accompanied by a parent, and pass the mandatory skills exam.
Unfortunately, even with these stringent requirements to obtain a motorcycle license in San Antonio, accidents happen. An effective way to help prevent these accidents is to know the most common causes. Here, you can learn more about common causes of motorcycle accidents. You will also find how Patterson Law Group attorneys are ready to help you with the aftermath of an accident.
Visibility-Related Accidents
A limited visibility accident occurs when another driver causes an accident with a motorcyclist because they failed to yield the right of way. These accidents can occur almost anywhere and often lead to devastating outcomes.
Motorcyclists are harder to see than other vehicles. However, issues like driver distraction, failure to check blind spots, fatigue, and others make the potential of these accidents even worse.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions, such as rain, can lead to motorcycle accidents. However, statistics have shown that more accidents occur on clear or cloudy days than those with rain. One theory is that more riders are on the roads when it is nice outside.
However, San Antonio’s weather is unpredictable. Motorcyclists who go out in good weather could be caught in a storm at any moment. If they are unprepared, the likelihood of an accident may increase.
Statistics from NSC for 2021 regarding motorcycle accidents around the country show the following information regarding weather conditions:
- 82.62% of accidents occur in clear or cloudy weather conditions
- 15.09% of accidents occur in other or unknown weather conditions
- 1.72% of accidents occur in rain
- 0.57% of accidents occur in fog
While adverse weather conditions can lead to more accidents, riders should be prepared for these conditions; they are not a leading factor. Additionally, even though the weather is nice, drivers should still use caution on the roads. Accidents can and will happen.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Some believe natural occurrences like rain, moisture, and snow are the only things that lead to road hazards; however, this is not the case. The NHTSA states that roadway design, construction, and maintenance are directed to the needs of vehicles with multiple leads. As a result, motorcyclists often encounter hazards that can lead to serious accidents.
For example, dysfunctional or bumpy roads make it difficult for motorcyclists to maintain balance. Additionally, riders who speed while on gravel may crash if they lack the skills to prevent themselves from falling off the bike.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding is one of the leading factors in motorcycle accidents. In 2021, speeding was a factor in 33% of all motorcycle accidents that caused fatalities. Even when riders are used to driving fast, they may still be involved in an accident. It is impossible to account for all the potential risks while on the road.
Speeding reduces a rider’s reaction time significantly. Even a tiny rock can cause a motorcyclist to lose control if they are speeding.
Impaired Driving
Driving while intoxicated (this includes alcohol and drugs) is a dangerous combination. Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence on San Antonio roads.
Some of the reasons motorcyclists should avoid driving while intoxicated include:
- Slower reaction time
- Reduced concentration
- Lack of coordination
- Inhibited judgment
According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s 2020 Motor Vehicle Traffic Report, alcohol consumption was involved in 45% of all motorcycle fatalities. In 2021, the number increased to 1,141, and in 2022 to 1,163 fatalities.
Lane Splitting
According to Texas HB-4122, lane splitting and lane filtering are illegal for motorcyclists. This law goes into effect on September 1, 2023. While illegal, it is legal for two motorcycles to ride side-by-side in the same lane. There is also an exception for police who are performing official duties.
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between lanes of stationary or slow-moving traffic. It is also a common cause of accidents.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
San Antonio motorcycle accidents can cause many serious injuries. These injuries can impact a victim’s life now and in the future.
At Patterson Law Group, our San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers have extensive experience handling cases involving common injuries from these accidents. Our knowledge and expertise allow us to support and guide our clients through these challenging times.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
One of the most severe outcomes of motorcycle accidents is traumatic brain injuries. Even with helmet protection, riders can suffer TBIs, leading to long-term cognitive issues, physical impairments, and emotional distress.
Road Rash and Burns
Motorcyclists are also susceptible to road rash and burns, which occur when skin contacts the road surface during an accident. These injuries can range from minor abrasions to severe, requiring extensive medical treatment.
Fractures and Broken Bones
The force of impact in a motorcycle accident often causes fractures and broken bones. These injuries can be life-altering, requiring surgery, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
At Patterson Law Group, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take on individuals and families. We are committed to fighting for the rights and well-being of our clients, ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve.
What to Do After a San Antonio Motorcycle Accident
It is natural to feel overwhelmed and confused after a motorcycle accident. We understand this can be a stressful situation.
We also understand that the steps you take (or do not take) after an accident can significantly impact any legal action. To protect yourself and your rights, keep the information here in mind.
You can also contact our motorcycle accident attorneys in San Antonio for assistance with your motorcycle accident claim.
- Ensure Safety First: Our immediate concern is your safety. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further accidents.
- Call for Emergency Services: We advise calling 911. Getting police and medical personnel to the scene is crucial for your health and documenting the accident.
- Document the Scene: If it’s safe to do so, we recommend taking photographs of the accident scene, including damages to your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. This evidence is invaluable.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. As your San Antonio motorcycle accident attorney, we’ll need this information to assist you further.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get care from a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact Us: Before dealing with insurance companies, speaking with us is important. We can provide legal guidance and ensure your rights are protected.
At Patterson Law Group, we understand how overwhelming a motorcycle accident can be. We are here to support you every step of the way and ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve.
Compensation You May Recover After a Motorcycle Accident
Filing a motorcycle accident claim aims to recover compensation for injuries and losses. We leverage our experience representing accident victims to ensure you acquire the full compensation you are entitled to.
Some of the compensation we can help you recover include the following:
Medical Expenses
Ensuring your immediate and future medical needs are financially covered is a priority. This encompasses the costs of emergency services, surgeries, hospital stays, and any ongoing medical treatments necessary for your recovery. Additionally, we work to include rehabilitation and physical therapy costs. These are essential to ensure your full recovery.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
Another important part of your claim will involve recovering lost wages for the period your injuries prevent you from working. For injuries that have long-term impacts on your ability to work or career progression, we also pursue compensation for lost future earning capacity, ensuring your financial security is safeguarded.
Pain and Suffering
Acknowledging the physical pain and emotional distress that often accompany motorcycle accidents, we ensure you receive a fair sum for your non-economic damages. We understand these aspects, though not quantifiable in the same manner as medical bills, significantly affect your quality of life.
Property Damage
We also focus on obtaining compensation for repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any personal property damaged during the accident. This step is crucial in restoring mobility and a sense of normalcy post-accident.
San Antonio Motorcycle Accident FAQ
How Does Wearing a Helmet (or Not Wearing a Helmet) Affect Your Motorcycle Accident Case?
The fact is that Texas motorcycle laws have fairly lenient helmet laws for motorcycle riders, but you may still wonder if the fact that you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident will affect your case. The answer depends on the circumstances surrounding your accident.
As we previously mentioned, Texas has a comparative fault auto accident system that also applies to motorcycle accidents. Under this system, you can only recover damages from another driver if you are less than 50 percent at-fault for an accident or your injuries. If you were not wearing a helmet at the time of your accident and you suffered head, neck, or face injuries, the court and jury might rule that the lack of helmet was the reason (or the partial reason) for the injuries.
This makes it important that you work with a personal injury attorney if you were involved in a San Antonio motorcycle accident and did not wear a helmet, as they can help bring your case properly and look after your rights.
How Long Do I Have to Start a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
Like all states, Texas has a statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after being injured in a car or motorcycle accident.
In Texas, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of injury. You only have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in the state’s civil court system. After this time, you will lose your opportunity to receive proper compensation for your injuries.
This makes it critical that you begin the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit after being injured in a motorcycle accident if negotiations with the negligent party’s insurance company seem to have stalled.
What If I Am Partly at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident in San Antonio?
An important thing to keep in mind is that Texas is an at-fault state, which means that injured parties can receive compensation from the negligent party in the event of a car accident.
Yet, what happens if you believe that you may be partly at fault for your motorcycle accident in San Antonio?
First, even if you believe you may be partially to blame, it is important that you do not admit your percentage of fault without consulting an attorney, as the other party’s insurance company or representation may try to use this against you. Fortunately, even if it is determined that the accident was partly your fault, Texas uses comparative negligence when settling personal injury claims. This means that if you are found to be 30% responsible for the accident, you will still be able to recover 70% of what your claim is worth.
What Would an Attorney Recommend Doing after a Motorcycle Accident?
After being involved in a motorcycle accident, taking certain steps can help to strengthen your case and ensure your quick recovery. As a San Antonio motorcycle accident attorney, we recommend that you take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you think you feel fine after your accident, it is still important to be evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries may take time to show symptoms, and some internal injuries may not show symptoms at all. A medical evaluation can help to ensure that any problems are caught before they become more serious. Additionally, medical records documenting your injuries can be essential evidence as you move forward with your personal injury case.
- Call The Police: Anytime you are involved in a car accident, it is important that you immediately call the police. The police will likely write a report about the accident, which can be vitally important in supporting your personal injury case. Police officers are experienced at analyzing car accidents, and they will be able to include information in their report regarding what they believe happened, which can help to prove the other driver’s negligence. Additionally, consulting a car accident attorney can provide valuable legal advice and assistance in handling the complexities of your case
- Take Plenty of Pictures: You should also make sure to take extensive photos of the accident scene after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Pictures of the wreckage, debris, and even pictures of skid marks can help to show the circumstances and severity of the accident, and images of the accident scene may even be able to be used to determine fault.
How Patterson Law Group Can Help with Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
At Patterson Law Group, we understand the complexities and challenges of motorcycle accident claims. Here’s how we can assist you:
- Tailored Legal Strategies: We create unique legal strategies for each client to maximize the possibility of a successful outcome.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are in the business of making money. They may make low offers that do not represent the full impact of your injuries and losses.
- Accident Investigation: To build a strong case, we conduct thorough investigations to gather all necessary evidence, including witness statements and accident reports.
- Medical Record Assistance: We understand the importance of medical documentation, so we help you obtain all relevant medical records and reports to substantiate your claim.
Our experienced San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group will help you navigate the claims process. We provide the support and representation you need to help you secure justice and compensation.
Patterson Law Group Stands Ready to Help with Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
Choosing our San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group means you have a team of professionals committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve.
We provide support and guidance beyond the courtroom. Our attorneys understand these accidents’ impact on your life and are ready to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Our comprehensive approach to your case ensures that every aspect of your claim is addressed, from securing financial compensation for all damages to supporting you through your recovery journey. Let us take the burden of the legal process off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on what matters most: your health and well-being.
Contact our office today to schedule a risk-free consultation.
