Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Houston, TX

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Houston, TX

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX knows that the majority of motorcycle accident injuries range from serious to catastrophic. Far too often, victims do not survive their injuries. In fact, national statistics show that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in injury or death. At John K. Zaid & Associates, our legal team understands the devastating effects motorcycle accidents have on victims and their families. We work diligently to ensure that our clients receive the financial compensation they deserve for the losses they have suffered. A motorcycle accident can be a very tragic event that results in extreme or fatal injuries for the biker. If the victim survives, they will likely be overwhelmed by substantial medical bills, property damage to their motorcycle, and lost wages until or unless they can return full time to work. Every motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX from John K. Zaid & Associates understands how financially, mentally, physically, and emotionally devastating it can be for the victim.

If the driver who caused your accident does not offer a fair settlement to pay for all of your accident-related damages, including those you anticipate such as future medical treatment, we might be able to help you. It is our mission to provide motorcyclists with the legal services they need to get the compensation they deserve while they’re taking the necessary time to recover.

Learn more about types of injuries from motorcycle accidents.

Common Types of Motorcycle Injuries

Each Houston motorcycle accident lawyer from John K. Zaid & Associates has represented many accident victims and knows that there are certain injuries that occur frequently in these types of accidents. Some of the most common we see include:

• Biker’s arm: When there is a crash to a motorcycle that throws the rider from the bike, he or she will often instinctively hold their arms out to break the fall. This impact can cause permanent damage to the nerves in the arms, resulting in what is referred to as “biker’s arm.” Nerves in the upper body can also be damaged as a result of this type of injury.

• Brain and head injuries: Brain and head injuries are common motorcycle accident injuries. Although helmets do help to prevent severe and fatal head injuries, the truth is that there are still many crashes where the impact from the crash produces more force than the helmet can protect from. However, it is still critical for all riders to wear a helmet, no matter what the state law is, because even at lower speeds, helmets can prevent head injuries.

• Fractured bone: There is a high risk of fractured bones in a motorcycle crash. One of the most common is fractured legs from the motorcycle falling on top of and trapping the rider. Motorcyclists also often suffer fractured arms and wrists from automatically putting out their hands to try to break their fall. They also frequently sustain broken pelvises and shoulders from being thrown from the bike in the crash.

• Injuries to legs: Although many riders wear protective leather clothing, knee pads, and motorcycle boots, injuries to the lower extremities are still extremely common in motorcycle accidents. Some of the more common injuries include shattered feet and knees.

Common Myths About Motorcycle Accidents

Myth: If Your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Is Below .08, It’s Safe To Ride Your Motorcycle

If your BAC is above 0.0, it’s not safe for you to ride your motorcycle. Motorcycles require balance, coordination and fast reflexes to be operated safely. Even one drink can make it unsafe for you to ride. Your motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX, from John K. Zaid & Associates can help you learn who’s at fault for your accident.

Myth: Laying Your Bike Down Will Slow You Down Enough To Avoid a Crash

Laying your bike down is rarely a good idea. It puts you at more risk of winding up stuck under another vehicle, leading to further injuries. The fact is, if you’ve got time to lay your bike down, you’ve got time to try to avoid the accident altogether. 

Myth: If You Have a Driver’s License, You Can Safely and Legally Operate a Motorcycle

If you have a driver’s license, you can legally and safely drive a car. Without a motorcycle license, it’s not only unsafe for you to drive a motorcycle, it’s also illegal. You could be found at fault for operating a motorcycle without a license, which might impact your ability to claim damages. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX, from John K. Zaid & Associates can walk you through the details of your accident.

Myth: Lane Splitting Is Always Safe

Lane splitting isn’t always safe, and it isn’t always legal either. For example, in Texas, all vehicles are to stay in one lane or another at all times. You could be liable for damages if there’s an accident and you were lane splitting. You’re also at greater risk if a vehicle were to change lanes and didn’t see you in their blind spot. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX, can help you determine liability if you’re in an accident that involved lane splitting.

Myth: Crashing With a Helmet on Could Save Your Head, but Cause Neck or Spinal Cord Injuries

Helmets absorb the majority of the impact damage that could injure your neck or spinal cord. A study by BioMed Research International clearly showed that riders wearing helmets were far less likely to sustain neck and spinal cord injuries than those who weren’t.

Myth: Wearing Leather Only Makes You Look Cool

Wearing leather doesn’t just make you look cool, it also helps you avoid injuries such as road rash. Instead of your skin taking the brunt of the injury, the leather takes it for you. Replacing a leather jacket after an accident is a small price to pay for protecting you from road rash.

What We Can Provide

In order to receive fair compensation you may want to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX from John K. Zaid & Associates who can analyze your case and determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim. An experienced attorney will determine the following:

• Did someone’s negligence cause the accident?
• Who is at fault for the accident?
• Were any traffic laws violated? This could include speeding, driving under the influence, running a traffic light or sign, or any other violation.

Having a lawyer on your side can make all of the difference when seeking compensation from those responsible. Their insurance company may try to persuade you to agree upon a settlement that is far less than you deserve. When you work with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX from John K. Zaid & Associates, you can feel confident that we will make every effort to negotiate the maximum possible settlement amount.

What Is the First Thing I Should Do After Being in a Motorcycle Accident?

Above anything else, make sure you go and get medical treatment if you are injured. Many personal injury victims refuse to get treatment under the pretense that they will not be covered down the line for expensive medical bills. Your health comes first – and if you have a successful claim, please know that your medical bills will likely be covered. Once you have been treated, contact an experienced Houston, TX motorcycle accidents lawyer who will help you navigate your next steps in filing a claim.

Is it Possible to Sue a Driver Even if They Claim They Couldn’t See Me on the Road?

Absolutely. If you have been hurt because of the negligence of another driver, no matter if they saw you or not, you deserve any compensation that the situation demands. All drivers know that motorcycles can be tricky to drive around simply because they are smaller than the average car, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t drive with reasonable caution at all times. Motorcyclists deserve to have their presence on the road respected. Holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions, with the assistance of an experienced Houston, TX motorcycle accidents lawyer, is an important part of gaining that respect.

What If I Was Speeding Before the Accident?

Unfortunately, an account of you speeding will not help you with your case. This is why it is imperative to speak with an experienced Houston, Texas motorcycle accidents lawyer about what to do, as they may be able to find a way to prove how the other driver’s carelessness was at the root of your accident, not your speeding. Even if you are partially responsible for an accident, you may be able to recover significant damages.

What Compensation Am I Entitled To?

Depending on the extent of the accident, you can file for compensation of all kinds including medical bills and treatment, pain and suffering, and even auto repair of your bike. The amount of damages you may be awarded depends on the circumstances of your accident. The legal team at John K. Zaid & Associates can help you to understand what kinds of compensation your specific situation may warrant.

Determining Who May Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident

When it comes to accidents, there may be one or more responsible parties, and sometimes an accident cannot be blamed on anyone at all. It’s important to analyze the events leading up to the accident to determine exactly what happened and why. John K. Zaid & Associates has the experience necessary to “untangle” even the most complex cases. When filing your claim, any or all of the following techniques may be employed by our Houston, Texas motorcycle accident lawyers in order to prove liability:

• A recreation of the accident can determine the actions of the individual drivers and their vehicles. Sophisticated analytical software can be used to track the vehicles and determine estimated speeds, direction of travel, etc. In the most serious of cases, similar vehicles can be used to reenact the accident in person.

• A forensic accident investigator can visit the scene and collect evidence, even after the scene has been cleared of the vehicles involved. This might involve photographing and measuring skid marks, examining damaged curbs and signage for traces of vehicle paint, the location of stop signs and traffic lights, etc.

• Recordings of intersection-mounted video cameras may be available. Dash cam video can also be invaluable if any vehicles had this installed.

• The responding law enforcement officer’s accident report can provide valuable information, including witness and involved driver statements.

• A Houston, TX motorcycle accident lawyer may interview witnesses who may or may not have contributed insight to the police officer’s accident report.

• Inspection of the vehicles involved can indicate the direction they travelled based on the location of damage, and the extent of damage can indicate the speed it was going at the time of the collision.

Recovering Damages

Once you consult with a Houston, TX motorcycle accident lawyer, your advocate will use any information gathered in order to prove liability. Once the at-fault party is identified, our firm’s professionals will then build a claim based on the evidence. The claim will include an itemized list of any costs associated with your injury or injuries. This typically includes what it has cost you for medical treatment and your anticipated costs for future treatment. The amount of money and benefits you’ve missed out on because you haven’t been able to return to work will also be considered.

As time ticks by, your legal options may become increasingly limited. If you were recently injured while riding your motorcycle, contact a Houston, TX motorcycle accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation today.

Additional Initial Considerations

You’ve heard it from your friends, you’ve heard it from your family, and you’ve even heard some horror stories from fellow riders: motorcycle accidents can be fatal. It’s a fact that most riders live with and do everything they can to prevent it. Still, even the most careful and safe motorcyclist can find themselves in an accident.

Not all accidents are serious, but typically, motorcycle accidents tend to be more severe than car accidents. Mainly because there is less protecting a motorcyclist compared to the driver of a sedan. In any case, it’s important to contact your motorcycle accident lawyer Houston, TX should you ever find yourself in need.

In the meantime, you can help yourself by understanding a little bit about motorcycle accident law and how it would affect you in the event of an accident. Here our lawyers have created a quick intro guide to the basics of motorcycle law.

I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet

Some states don’t require motorcyclists to wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. For one thing, if you’re not wearing a helmet and you get into an accident, your injuries could be much more severe, if not fatal. Your insurance company might also raise your premiums if they find out that you don’t wear a helmet while riding. When it comes to filing a claim or lawsuit, however, it can mean a loss of a settlement or significant reduction. Regardless if you were wearing a helmet or not, it’s imperative to contact our  motorcycle accident lawyer Houston, TX for a consultation. They can help determine and affect the outcome of your case.

When Should I File My Lawsuit?

Each state will have a different deadline to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Our motorcycle accident lawyer Houston, TX could be instrumental in obtaining this information and assisting you with your lawsuit. We will make sure you meet all filing deadlines so that you have an opportunity to gain compensation for your injuries and property damages. All you have to do is contact us to set up a consultation. 

Do I Have to Sue?

No, you don’t have to file suit for damages, but if you were injured in your accident then you’ll surely have expensive bills to pay. On the other hand, it’s important not to accept the insurance company’s initial settlement offer. Almost always, these settlements are much less than what you’re entitled to and as soon as you accept the offer, you’re stuck with it. You deserve compensation for your pain and suffering, and the best way to get this is through filing a claim.

I May Have Been Partially at Fault

You might receive a percentage of the entire payout based on how much you contributed to the accident. A motorcycle accident lawyer Houston, TX can review the particulars of your case and advise what you may be eligible for.

There are many other aspects of motorcycle law, but your best resource will be a reputable and qualified motorcycle accident lawyer Houston, TX. Our goal here at John K. Zaid & Associates is to fight for and protect your rights, so do not hesitate to call us today with any questions you may have.

Why Is It Important to Have a Lawyer on My Side? 

It is so important to have a skilled personal injury lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accidents on your team when you are fighting for compensation for many reasons. Your first priority needs to be healing from the accident. In order to do this and fully focus on getting better, it is helpful to have an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from John K. Zaid & Associates on your team so that you can trust them to handle your case while you spend time going to doctors and trying to recover at physical therapy. A good lawyer will make sure that you file for all the compensation you deserve. He or she will know strategies that have proven to be effective in accident cases, so will know what to mention in court. They may want to hire an expert witness to show up in court and help make your case. Your lawyer may also send an investigative team to the scene of the accident to see if they uncover anything else that could help you win your case. Finally, a lawyer knows approximately what your case should be worth. This means that you will not choose to settle for something that is much less than you deserve. You will be armed with all the information you need to make a smart decision for yourself. Ultimately at the end of the day, we will do whatever you would like to for your case, but it is always good to consult with an expert to see what would be the wisest decision. 

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Houston, TX Today

We strive to provide legal guidance that makes a difference for our clients. To receive a complimentary legal consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX from John K. Zaid & Associates, call us today. We will schedule you as soon as possible so we can begin going over the details of your case and ensure you meet the statute of limitations in Texas. It is imperative that you are timely in filing so that we have a chance to fight for you. Contact us today. 

Reasons for Hiring a Lawyer After You’ve Been Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX understands that nothing compares to the feeling of freedom that driving a motorcycle provides. Unfortunately, the open nature of two-wheeled vehicles means that riders are highly vulnerable to injury. If you’re hit in what would otherwise be a minor fender bender, the harm can be devastating. Those who are hurt by someone else’s negligence deserve compensation. The best way to move forward is by hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Our team at John K. Zaid & Associates offer are a few reasons why hiring one to handle your case is highly recommended.

Determining Driver Error

Motorcycle crash attorneys are experts at analyzing details of an accident and determining fault. Maybe the reason for the crash is that the other driver was looking at a cell phone. Perhaps a less obvious form of distraction came into play. Did nearby security cameras catch the incident? If so, is it clear that the defendant was ignoring traffic laws? What about eyewitnesses? Did anybody see the collision occur? A litigating lawyer can gather statements, as well as every other piece of relevant evidence.

Dealing With Insurance

Depending on the seriousness of the damages you’ve sustained, it might make sense to seek compensation for your losses through insurance. Unfortunately, insurance companies want to increase their profits by reducing how much they pay. They’ll use any excuse to deny cutting a check. Motorcycle accident lawyers in Houston, Texas, like the lawyers at John K. Zaid & Associates, have the skills to deal with insurance representatives so that it becomes impossible for them to avoid giving you what you deserve.

Securing Expert Testimony

If your lawyer cannot secure an agreeable settlement outside the courtroom, you will have to go to trial. To win, you need to demonstrate that you’ve suffered greatly as a result of the other person’s irresponsibility. This may mandate an appearance from a medical expert who can explain exactly why your condition will require extensive or even lifelong care. A lawyer familiar with motorcycle accidents knows medical authorities who can provide quality testimony, as well as how to secure their cooperation.

How To Recover From Your Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident can be a life-altering experience. If you were recently in a motorcycle accident, there are several good steps you can take to help yourself recover. The legal team at John K. Zaid & Associates can put you in contact with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX. These professionals can help you navigate the legal aspects of this experience. Keep reading to learn how to recover from your accident. 

Focus on Your Physical Recovery

If you sustained injuries during your accident it is very important that you seek out medical attention and follow your doctor’s orders. Your path to recovery will be smoother when you put a priority on your physical healing. You need to fight off the impulse to jump back into life and regular day-to-day activities too quickly. Even though you want to get things back to normal as soon as possible, you will need to take the appropriate amount of time for physical healing. 

Focus On The Legal Aspects of Your Recovery 

Your recovery will involve more than just physical healing. If your accident was the fault of another person, you will want to seek out the legal advice of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX. They will be able to help you understand your rights in this situation. 

If you were the one at fault, it is still imperative that you have legal advice on your side. This is a good way to ensure that you are treated fairly and you are not taken advantage of. 

Focus on Your Mental Recovery 

Whether or not a wreck was your fault, any type of vehicle accident can be traumatizing. This trauma is multiplied if you were injured, or if others were injured because of you. This can take a toll on your mental health. 

The physical pain you are experiencing, the stress of missing work, or the feelings of responsibility for causing a wreck can weigh heavy on your mind and result in mental health challenges. These challenges can manifest themselves as depression, anxiety, paranoia, insomnia, changes in appetite, and more. If you are dealing with any of these mental health issues, it is important that you reach out for help from a therapist or counselor. This is a good way to ensure that you fully recover, both physically and mentally. 

Recovering from a motorcycle wreck takes time. The legal team at John K. Zaid & Associates can help. 

Appealing Unfavorable Rulings

There is always the possibility that a judge and jury will not perceive the incident in question the same way as you. When their viewpoint falls in the other party’s favor, you can appeal the decision. A motorcycle accident lawyer knows precisely how to file for an official reconsideration.

Being hurt in a motorcycle accident can be devastating. Improve your chances of getting the restitution you need by hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston, TX experienced with accidents involving motorized bikes.