Injured in a Texas Motorcycle Accident?
Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle can be freeing and exhilarating, but Texas highways and rural roads are not always safe for riders. Motorcycle accidents are usually preventable, yet they can cause lifelong injuries and even death. Hiring a Texas motorcycle accident attorney like The Texas Bulldog is one of the most important steps toward the financial compensation you deserve.
Motorcyclists often suffer serious injuries in accidents because they do not have the same protection as people in cars or trucks. A motorcycle has no seat belts, no airbags, and no windshield to protect the rider. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys offer skilled representation to injured riders and pursue full compensation for every injury you suffered.
Quick Answer: Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you were injured in a Texas motorcycle accident, you can pursue compensation even under the state's comparative negligence rule, and even if you were not wearing a helmet. You generally have two years to file a claim, and motorcycle accident attorneys typically work on contingency. The Miller Law Firm offers a free case review.
Watch
Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Fighting for Injured Riders
Adam Miller — The Texas Bulldog — on motorcycle accident cases.
Why Motorcycle Accident Cases Are Different
A rider takes the full force of a crash, and insurance companies often assume the rider was reckless. That is why motorcycle claims need a lawyer who can prove what really happened.
A car protects the people inside it. A motorcycle does not, so even a low-speed crash can cause broken bones, spinal injuries, or worse. The injuries are often more serious and more expensive to treat than those in a typical car accident, and that raises the stakes of the insurance claim.
Motorcycle cases also bring their own questions: whether the other driver saw the rider, whether a road hazard played a part, whether the bike or one of its parts was defective, and whether the insurance company is unfairly blaming the rider. We investigate all of it, and we prepare every case as if it is going to trial.
Top 4 Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle crashes are caused not by riders but by the negligence of other drivers. Knowing the most common causes can help you stay alert on Texas roads, and it also helps prove liability if you have been hurt in a collision.
Drivers Failing to Yield
Cars often overlook motorcycles when turning or merging.
Distracted Driving
Texting, phone use, or other distractions increase crash risks.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Drivers who do not check their blind spots frequently cut off riders.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of accidents.
Common Crash Scenarios and Who May Be Liable
The right claim depends on how the crash happened. Here are some of the situations we see most often and who may be responsible.
Left-Turn and Right-of-Way Crashes
A driver turns across a rider's path or pulls out from a side street. A driver who says "I did not see him" is not off the hook. Drivers must keep a proper lookout and yield the right of way.
Lane Changes and Blind Spots
A driver merges without checking and forces the rider off the road or into another vehicle.
Commercial Truck Crashes
When an 18-wheeler or delivery truck is involved, the trucking company may share fault. See our truck accident page for how these claims work.
Drunk or Impaired Drivers
Impaired drivers put riders in serious danger. Punitive damages may be available in the worst cases. Learn more about DUI and DWI accidents.
Road Hazards
Potholes, gravel, debris, and poorly maintained roads can send a rider down. Claims against a government entity can have much shorter notice deadlines than the usual two years, so call early.
Defective Motorcycles and Parts
A failed brake, tire, or other component can cause a crash. The manufacturer or seller may be responsible.
Hit-and-Run or Uninsured Drivers
If the driver flees or has no insurance, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may help. See our UM/UIM guide.
Multi-Vehicle Pile-Ups
When several vehicles are involved, fault becomes contested fast. Read about multi-vehicle accident claims in Houston.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists lack the protection of a car's frame, seat belts, or airbags, so even a low-speed crash can cause serious harm.
Lacerations and Road Rash
Skidding across the road surface after laying down a bike causes cuts, scrapes, and bruising. Severe or infected road rash can lead to permanent nerve damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Riders thrown from their bikes face a high risk of twisting injuries to the spine, which are difficult to treat and can cause permanent damage or paralysis.
Broken Bones
Hands, wrists, arms, feet, and the back are frequently broken when a rider is knocked from the motorcycle.
Leg Injuries
A rider's legs are usually the first point of contact with the ground and absorb the brunt of the impact in a crash.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are the number one cause of death in motorcycle crashes. Texas requires helmets for riders under 21, and helmets are proven to save lives at any age.
The most serious injuries can change your life for good. Read about catastrophic injury claims in Texas if you or a loved one faces permanent disability or long-term care.
Learn basic motorcycle safety tips from TxDOT.
The Insurance Fight
Motorcyclists Face an Uphill Battle
When motorcycle accident victims seek compensation, they often face unfair bias from insurance companies that stereotype riders as reckless. Insurers try to use that stigma to shift blame and reduce payouts.
Pursuing a motorcycle claim can be more complex than a typical car accident case. At The Miller Law Firm, we know most motorcyclists are cautious, responsible riders. Most motorcycle accidents happen when careless drivers fail to yield to riders or ignore their right of way.
Because Texas uses comparative fault, the insurance company only needs to push more of the blame onto you to cut what it pays. If you are found more than 50% responsible, you collect nothing. Read our Texas comparative fault guide to see how that rule works, and our guide to recorded statements before you talk to any adjuster. Insurers also like to claim that a rider was splitting lanes, so read whether lane splitting is legal in Texas.
Texas Motorcycle Laws That Affect Your Claim
Three rules come up in almost every Texas motorcycle case: the helmet law, the 51% fault rule, and the two-year deadline.
The Helmet Law
Texas requires riders and passengers under 21 to wear a helmet. Riders 21 and older may go without one if they completed an approved motorcycle safety course or have health insurance that covers motorcycle accident injuries. Not wearing a helmet does not end your claim, but the defense may argue it made your injuries worse.
The 51% Fault Rule
Texas follows modified comparative fault. If you are found more than 50% responsible for the crash, you cannot collect. If you are 50% or less responsible, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.
The Two-Year Deadline
In most Texas personal injury cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Waiting makes evidence harder to find. Read our statute of limitations guide for the exceptions.
Medical bills work differently than most people expect. Texas allows recovery of the amount actually paid or incurred, not the full amount billed. Learn more in our paid vs. incurred guide, and see how a hospital lien can affect your settlement.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, prioritize safety and medical attention. Call 911, collect evidence if you can, avoid admitting fault, and contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
1
Call 911 and get medical care
Report the crash and request EMS if anyone is hurt. Some injuries do not show up right away, so get checked even if you feel fine.
2
Collect evidence at the scene
Take photos of the vehicles, the road, any hazard, and your injuries. Get witness names and the other driver's information.
3
Keep your helmet and gear
Do not repair, replace, or throw away your bike, helmet, or riding gear. They are important evidence.
4
Do not admit fault
Avoid saying you are sorry or guessing about what happened. Stick to the facts.
5
Be careful with the insurance company
Do not give a recorded statement or sign a release until you understand your rights.
6
Contact a motorcycle accident attorney
Call early so evidence is preserved and the insurance company cannot use your words against you.
Damages You May Recover
Compensation You May Be Able to Recover
Medical Expenses
Past and future medical bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Lost Wages
Income you lost while recovering, plus loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to your old work.
Property Damage
Repair or replacement of your motorcycle, helmet, and riding gear.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain your injuries cause.
Mental Anguish
Compensation for fear, anxiety, and emotional distress after the crash.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Compensation when you can no longer do the things you loved, including riding.
In cases involving reckless or drunk driving, punitive damages may also apply. Every case is different, and we will tell you honestly what we think yours may be worth after we review the facts.
How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
The Texas Bulldog never charges anything unless we win your case.
- We front all costs of researching, prosecuting, and litigating your case, including expert witnesses and court costs.
- If we win, those costs are reimbursed from your recovery. If we do not win, we absorb the loss ourselves.
We don't chase accident victims, and we fight those who do. If a caller, case runner, or someone claiming to represent a law firm contacted you about your motorcycle accident before you reached out to anyone, that contact may be illegal under Texas law. The Texas Bulldog is a recognized voice against illegal lawyer solicitation and barratry. See our guide on what to do if a lawyer contacts you first.
Client Reviews
Nothing builds trust like hearing directly from the people we have helped. Here is what some of our clients say.
★★★★★
“Adam Miller and his staff are very kind, respectful and professional. They handled my situation very well and made me feel comfortable. I was even able to speak to him directly if I had to discuss any concern I had. I definitely recommend them.”
G Rodriguez
Google Review
★★★★★
“Miller Law Firm is your best choice if you are ever in an accident. They were with me every step of the way and helped me win big! Excellent customer service and an attorney that truly cares! Highly recommend!”
Devin Hebert
Google Review
★★★★★
“Adam Miller is representing me in regards to a vehicle related accident. He is honest, straight forward, and made me feel comfortable during a time of uncertainty. Do not hesitate to call the Miller Law Firm!”
Reed Harding
Google Review
★★★★★
“If you are ever in an accident contact the Miller Law Firm. They are so helpful and reliable. The staff there are amazing and knowledgeable about your case. If they don't know they will find out. Mr. Miller is amazing and funny. It's a Texas BullDog thing.”
Tericka Marshall
Google Review
Helpful Rider Resources and Guides
Motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians take the full force of a collision and face the same assumption every time: that they were somehow at fault. These guides deal with that directly.
Motorcycle Claims
A Houston Rider's Complete GuideWhat to do after a wreck, and how motorcycle claims differ from car claims in Texas.Read the guide →Choosing a Motorcycle Accident LawyerWhat actually matters when riders pick representation, and what doesn't.Read the guide →The Dangers of Houston Roads for RidersWhy I-10 and Houston's freeway design put motorcyclists at particular risk.Read the guide →Filing a Motorcycle Accident LawsuitThe short version of how a Houston motorcycle claim proceeds.Read the guide →
Pedestrian and Cyclist Claims
If a Pedestrian Was JaywalkingHow Texas comparative fault applies when a pedestrian crossed outside a crosswalk.Read the guide →Cyclist Hit by a Truck in PasadenaLegal rights and safety considerations for cyclists sharing roads with freight.Read the guide →
Texas Injury Law Guides
Texas Comparative Fault GuideUnderstand the Texas 51% rule and how shared fault may affect compensation.Read the guide →Should You Give a Recorded Statement?Learn how insurance companies may use recorded statements after an accident.Read the guide →Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist GuideWhat your own coverage may pay when the other driver cannot.Read the guide →
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Here are answers to the questions we hear most from injured riders in Houston and across Texas.
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Texas?
After a motorcycle accident, prioritize safety and medical attention. Call 911 to report the crash and request EMS if anyone is hurt. Collect evidence at the scene (photos, witness info, driver details) and avoid admitting fault. Then contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
How is fault determined in a Texas motorcycle crash?
Texas follows a comparative negligence rule. This means fault can be shared, and your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of blame. Police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic laws, and accident reconstruction are all used to determine liability.
What compensation can I recover in a motorcycle accident case?
You may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage (bike repairs/replacement)
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- In cases involving reckless or drunk driving, punitive damages may also apply.
How long do I have to file a claim after a motorcycle accident in Texas?
Texas law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing the deadline can bar your right to compensation, so it's best to consult an attorney right away.
Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident claim?
Yes. Insurance companies often undervalue motorcycle claims or blame the rider. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for full compensation, especially if the crash involves serious injuries.
What if I wasn't wearing a helmet during the crash?
You can still pursue a claim, even if you weren't wearing a helmet. However, the defense may argue that your injuries were worse because of it. Texas requires helmets for riders under 21. Riders 21 and older may go without one if they completed an approved motorcycle safety course or have health insurance that covers motorcycle accident injuries.
How long does it take to settle a motorcycle accident case?
It depends on factors like the extent of your injuries, available insurance coverage, and whether fault is disputed. Some cases settle in a few months, while others take a year or more, especially if a lawsuit is necessary.
What if the other driver doesn't have insurance?
You may still be covered under your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy. A skilled attorney can help identify all possible sources of recovery, including third-party liability (e.g., defective bike parts or road hazards).
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
At The Texas Bulldog – Adam Miller, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. Your consultation is always free.
Why choose The Texas Bulldog for your motorcycle accident case?
We're aggressive, experienced, and local to Houston. Attorney Adam Miller has recovered hundreds of millions for injured Texans and knows how to fight back when insurance companies try to play games. We run a trial-ready boutique practice, not a settlement mill. With us, you're not just a case. You're part of the pack.
What if the driver says they didn't see me?
That does not end your case. Drivers must keep a proper lookout and yield the right of way, and failing to do so can be negligence. Many motorcycle crashes happen because a driver did not look carefully enough for a rider.
Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?
Be careful. The other driver's adjuster works for the insurance company, not for you, and may use your words to shift blame onto you. Talk to a motorcycle accident attorney before you give a recorded statement or sign anything. Read our recorded statement guide for more.
Ready to Speak With an Attorney?
Contact Our Law Firm
At The Miller Law Firm, we focus on helping injured victims and their families get the most they deserve. We know the success of your case depends on our hard work and dedication, and our attorneys go the extra mile from the first investigation through every part of the legal process, whether that means negotiating with insurance companies or going to trial.
Call (713) 572-3333 today to schedule a free consultation.
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