Sean McCarthy
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious, life-changing injuries, especially on busy roads in Houston, Texas. While every crash is different, many motorcycle accidents happen for the same reasons, and liability often extends beyond what injured riders initially realize.
Understanding the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and who may be legally responsible can help injured riders protect their rights and take the right next steps after a crash.
Left-Turn Accidents at Intersections
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Houston occurs when a driver makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
Drivers often misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or fail to see the rider at all. These crashes frequently happen at busy intersections and can be devastating for motorcyclists.
Who may be liable:
- The driver who failed to yield
- In some cases, an employer if the driver was working at the time
Lane-Change and Blind Spot Collisions
Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss in traffic, especially in blind spots. When drivers change lanes without properly checking mirrors or signaling, motorcyclists are at serious risk.
On congested Houston highways and freeways, blind spot accidents are a leading cause of severe motorcycle injuries.
Who may be liable:
- The driver who changed lanes unsafely
- A commercial employer if the vehicle was work-related
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, including texting, phone use, eating, or adjusting navigation, plays a major role in motorcycle accidents across Texas.
For motorcyclists, even a moment of inattention by a driver can mean the difference between a close call and a catastrophic collision.
Who may be liable:
- The distracted driver
- Employers if distraction occurred during work duties
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact. When drivers speed, tailgate, or drive aggressively around motorcycles, crashes become far more dangerous.
In Houston, high-speed roads and heavy traffic increase the risk of severe motorcycle accidents caused by reckless behavior.
Who may be liable:
- The speeding or aggressive driver
- Companies that failed to properly supervise commercial drivers
Unsafe Road Conditions and Debris
Motorcycles are especially vulnerable to poor road conditions. Potholes, loose gravel, construction debris, uneven pavement, and slick surfaces can all cause a rider to lose control.
Some motorcycle accidents are not caused by another driver, but by unsafe roadway conditions.
Who may be liable:
- Construction companies
- Property owners
- Government entities responsible for road maintenance
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol or drug impairment remains a serious cause of motorcycle accidents in Texas. Impaired drivers often fail to see motorcycles or react in time to avoid a collision.
These crashes frequently result in severe or fatal injuries for riders.
Who may be liable:
- The impaired driver
- In some cases, additional parties depending on the circumstances
Why Liability Matters in a Houston Motorcycle Accident Case
Motorcycle accidents often lead to:
- Severe injuries
- Extensive medical bills
- Lost income
- Long-term or permanent disability
Determining who is liable is critical to recovering full compensation. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, and insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the rider.
Working with an experienced Houston motorcycle accident lawyer can help ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.
Talk to a Houston Lawyer About the Common Causes of Motorcycle Wrecks and Determining Liability
Motorcycle accidents are not just another type of car crash. They involve unique risks, serious injuries, and complex liability issues, especially on Houston roads.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Houston or anywhere in Texas, help is available.
Call our office or contact us online to request a free, confidential case evaluation. There are no upfront fees, and you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. Speaking with a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your options and protect your rights.