Motorcyclists are more likely to be injured than other vehicle users in a crash. While following motorcycle safety tips in Austin, TX, cannot prevent all motorcycle accidents, they can reduce your risk of a collision.
When a crash happens, an Austin motorcycle accident lawyer from Anderson Injury Lawyers can pursue compensation from those responsible. Our founding attorney, Mark Anderson, has over 30 years of combined experience. Contact us at (512) 399-5000 for a free consultation.
Here’s what you need to know about staying safe on Austin roads and how the right advocate can help if you suffer a crash.
How Anderson Injury Lawyers Can Help After A Motorcycle Accident In Austin, TX
At Anderson Injury Lawyers, we can handle the following for you:
- Evaluate the details of your crash and help you understand your rights
- Gather documents and other evidence to build your claim
- File your claim and negotiate with the insurer for a fair settlement
- Pursue a lawsuit if the insurer doesn’t offer the compensation you deserve
Our Austin motorcycle accident attorneys have a good track record of fighting for the rights of motorcycle crash victims in Austin, Texas. We have secured over $100 million in much-needed accident compensation for injured clients.
Motorcycle crash injuries can be severe, leaving you with long-term complications and lost income. Contact us to schedule a free appointment with an Austin personal injury attorney to discuss how we can pursue compensation for these losses today.
Tips For Protecting Yourself From Austin Motorcycle Crashes
Most traffic crashes result from driver behavior, even when road or weather conditions contribute. For example, when a driver collides with a motorcycle in a rainstorm, the crash investigation often finds that the driver was speeding or tailgating.
While you can’t control the actions of others on the road, you can actively reduce your odds of causing or contributing to a motorcycle collision. Here are a few key ways you can protect yourself when you ride:
Take A Motorcycle Safety Course
Texas generally requires applicants seeking a Class M license to meet the state’s licensing requirements, which may include completing an approved motorcycle safety course, depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
Riders are not required to take safety courses when renewing their licenses. If you haven’t ridden in a while, though, you might benefit from a refresher course.
Additionally, motorcyclists who move to Texas with a valid motorcycle license do not need to take a safety course. Instead, they can receive a Texas motorcycle license by surrendering their out-of-state motorcycle license.
Motorcycle safety courses teach riders how to properly handle their vehicles. They also provide techniques for maintaining control during emergency maneuvers. Whether you’re a new or seasoned rider, taking a safety course can equip you to avoid a crash or escape a dangerous situation.
Stay Out Of Vehicles’ Blind Spots
Because motorcycles are smaller vehicles, drivers often have difficulty seeing them. Drivers can also miss spotting motorcycles simply due to inattention and distractions.
A common highway crash scenario occurs when drivers fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes. Instead, they rely on their mirrors or simply change lanes without looking. In either case, the driver can sideswipe a motorcyclist in their blind spot.
You can reduce your risk of this type of collision by staying out of vehicles’ blind spots. Stay behind or ahead of other vehicles, and when you overtake slower vehicles, pass quickly without dwelling next to them.
Ride Cautiously Near Intersections
Another common crash hotspot for motorcycles is intersections. For example, drivers may turn left across a motorcyclist’s path, leading to a head-on or side-impact collision. These crashes often occur because drivers fail to spot motorcycles or misjudge their distance or speed.
You can reduce your risk of colliding with vehicles at intersections by exercising caution as you approach them. Pay attention to other vehicles and be prepared to swerve or stop to avoid a driver who fails to yield to you.
Wear A Helmet
Motorcycle helmets significantly reduce the risk of head trauma and death. While Texas technically requires motorcyclists to wear protective helmets, the state exempts riders 21 or older who either complete a motorcycle safety course or have health insurance to cover head injuries.
You should always wear a helmet, even if you are exempt under Texas law, in case you are hit by a negligent driver. Brain injuries are some of the most debilitating injuries you can suffer in an accident, often leaving victims with permanent disabilities.
Contact Our Austin Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation
Even the most cautious rider can suffer an accident, and the injuries in these crashes can be devastating. If you were hurt in a crash in Austin, the experienced team at Anderson Injury Lawyers can help you pursue the compensation you need to cover your losses. Contact our Austin motorcycle accident attorneys to schedule a free consultation.