New Braunfels Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Our Texas attorneys are here for you when you’re injured in a motorcycle accident
Riding a motorcycle in and around New Braunfels comes with certain unavoidable risks. Motorcyclists face many dangers on the road, partly due to the lack of protection that a motorcycle provides. At Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and are committed to advocating for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are common causes of New Braunfels motorcycle accidents?
- What types of injuries result from motorcycle accidents?
- Why do I need a New Braunfels motorcycle accident lawyer?
- What steps should I take after a New Braunfels motorcycle accident?
- Why choose Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney?
- What are Texas’s motorcycle laws?
- How does the motorcycle accident claims process work?
- What are common challenges in motorcycle accident cases?
- What is the value of my New Braunfels motorcycle accident claim?
- How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Texas?
- How do you prove liability in a motorcycle accident case?
- What if I was partially at fault for my motorcycle accident?
- Do you have a New Braunfels motorcycle accident lawyer near me?
What are common causes of New Braunfels motorcycle accidents?
Texas was recently named one of the worst states for motorcyclists, scoring 72.9 out of a possible 100 on the danger scale. Only Hawaii is more dangerous for bikers. In 2022, 574 people in Texas died in motorcycle-related crashes.
Many factors can contribute to motorcycle accidents, and some of these include:
- Many motorists fail to notice motorcycles due to their smaller size, which can lead to a collision.
- Left-turn accidents, a common scenario where a vehicle turns left directly in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
- Drivers may not check their blind spots thoroughly, resulting in sideswiping motorcyclists.
- Excessive speed reduces reaction time for both motorcyclists and other drivers.
- Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces pose greater risks to motorcyclists than passenger vehicles.
What types of injuries result from motorcycle accidents?
In an accident, motorcyclists tend to be more vulnerable than car occupants, leading to a higher risk of severe injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries. Even with helmets, riders can suffer serious head injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries. These can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Fractures and breaks. Limbs are particularly susceptible during a motorcycle crash.
- Road rash. Severe skin abrasions that can lead to infections if not treated properly.
Why do I need a New Braunfels motorcycle accident lawyer?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, we understand that you’re facing physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burdens. Dealing with the legal process at a time like this can be overwhelming and intimidating. That’s where Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney comes in. We can offer you a variety of assistance, including:
- Assessing the specifics of your accident to determine liability and identify potential avenues of compensation.
- Meticulously collecting all pertinent information, from accident scene photos to witness testimonies.
- Advocating fiercely on your behalf to ensure fair compensation, even when insurance companies try to minimize your payout.
- If a fair settlement is impossible, we’re always prepared to take your case to court, presenting a compelling argument to secure justice on your behalf.
What steps should I take after a New Braunfels motorcycle accident?
If you or a loved one are involved in a New Braunfels motorcycle accident, take the following steps to ensure your safety and your legal rights:
- Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Take photographs, note road conditions, and gather witness contact information.
- Even if you don’t feel injured or your injuries seem minor, consult with a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Before discussing the accident with insurance companies, it’s important to seek legal counsel to understand your rights and options.
Why choose Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney?
Our firm’s dedication to motorcycle accident victims in New Braunfels stems from a variety of factors. Being part of the New Braunfels community, we understand local road conditions, common accident areas, and regional nuances that could affect your case. And we treat each case with the individual attention it deserves, ensuring you’re not just a file – but a valued client. Finally, our history of successful settlements and verdicts speaks to our commitment to every client.
What are Texas’s motorcycle laws?
Key Texas motorcycle laws include:
- Riders under 21 are required to wear helmets. Those over 21 can ride without a helmet if they have completed a safety course or have adequate health insurance.
- Motorcyclists must have a Class M license, which requires passing a written test and a road test.
- Motorcycles must be equipped with functioning brakes, lights, and mirrors.
How does the motorcycle accident claims process work?
Here’s what you can expect when working your way through the claims process:
- First, you’ll discuss the details of your case with our team to determine the best course of action.
- We also launch an investigation, gather evidence, consult with experts, and reconstruct the accident scene if necessary.
- We present a detailed account of damages and injuries to the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- The next step is negotiation, where we engage in discussions with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
- If negotiations aren’t a success, we don’t hesitate to proceed to court to advocate on your behalf.
What are common challenges in motorcycle accident cases?
We understand that motorcycle accident cases can present unique challenges. There’s a prevalent misconception that motorcyclists are reckless, which can influence perceptions of fault. The serious nature of injuries can lead to prolonged treatments and rehabilitation, which can complicate the assessment of damages. Finally, insurance companies may attempt to downplay your injuries or argue about liability to reduce payouts.
At Pat Maloney: Injury & Accident Attorney, we’re fully prepared to take on these challenges.
What is the value of my New Braunfels motorcycle accident claim?
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation, including:
- Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Compensation for time off work due to injuries and loss of earning potential if you're unable to return to your job.
- Monetary compensation for the physical pain and emotional trauma experienced as a result of the accident.
- Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your damaged motorcycle.
If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, the family may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support through a wrongful death claim.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Texas?
Texas law imposes a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to take legal action. Failing to file within this period could result in losing your right to seek compensation.
However, certain circumstances may affect this timeframe, such as claims involving government entities or cases where injuries were not immediately apparent. This is why it's so important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
How do you prove liability in a motorcycle accident case?
To secure the compensation to which you’re entitled, you must be able to prove that another party was at fault for your accident. Our firm gathers evidence to support your claim, including:
- Police reports, which are official documentation from law enforcement detailing the crash.
- Statements from eyewitnesses who saw the accident happen.
- Traffic camera footage and video evidence that can clarify what happened.
- Accident reconstruction analysis, which are expert evaluations that help determine the sequence of events.
- Medical records, documentation of injuries, and their impact on your life.
In some cases, multiple parties could be liable. These include other motorists, vehicle manufacturers (in the case of defective parts), or government agencies responsible for road maintenance.
What if I was partially at fault for my motorcycle accident?
Texas follows what’s called a modified comparative fault rule, which means that even if you were partially at fault for your accident, you’re still eligible to recover compensation. However, this compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example – if you were found to be 20% at fault for your accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. If you’re more than 50% at fault, however, you can’t recover any damages.
Insurance companies often try to place blame on motorcyclists to minimize their payout. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is so important.
Do you have a New Braunfels motorcycle accident lawyer near me?
Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney is located at 239 E Commerce St. in the center of Downtown San Antonio, TX. We are the owner of one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in San Antonio. There’s plenty of parking nearby. If you cannot travel, we can arrange a phone or video conference or an in-hospital visit.
Contact our dedicated New Braunfels motorcycle accident attorneys today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Braunfels, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Pat Maloney: Accident & Injury Attorney, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured motorcyclists and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice. Call our offices or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.