At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston motorcycle accident attorneys and support staff provide the critical legal resources our fellow Texans need to pursue results inside and outside the courtroom.
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are quite common in Texas, and most of these crashes are the result of negligent drivers who fail to look for and recognize the riders in traffic.
Sadly, distracted drivers — and those who simply do not check their surroundings before changing lanes or making turns — are causing motorcycle accident fatalities every day, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, either as the operator or a passenger, because of another driver’s negligence, contact our Harris County personal injury lawyers today to get the help you need.
Collectively, our skilled Houston personal injury attorneys have spent more than three decades working on both sides of the courtroom, gaining unparalleled experience of the inner workings of some of the world’s largest insurance companies, and transforming that knowledge into wins for our clients.
We can pursue the same results for you and your family.
Our skilled legal staff offers services in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin because we believe in inclusion, fairness, and justice. It is only possible to successfully represent the people in our communities when we can successfully represent all people.
Contact us today to learn more about our commitment to all Lone Star State residents.
Texas Motorcycle Accident Statistics and What They Reveal About Rider Risk
Motorcycle travel remains a popular form of transportation throughout Texas, but the data consistently shows that riders face significantly greater risks than occupants of passenger vehicles. According to recent reports from the Texas Department of Transportation, hundreds of motorcyclists lose their lives on Texas roadways each year, and thousands more suffer serious injuries that require extensive medical care.
Several patterns appear repeatedly in statewide crash data. Many serious motorcycle collisions occur in urban areas, where dense traffic, frequent intersections, and complex lane movements make riders less visible to surrounding drivers. Houston, with its heavy commuter traffic and expansive freeway network, reflects these same trends.
Motorcycle crashes in Texas frequently involve:
Passenger vehicles failing to yield at intersections.
Drivers changing lanes without checking blind spots.
Sudden stops in congested freeway traffic.
High-speed collisions on multilane highways.
Road hazards that may not affect larger vehicles.
Because motorcycles provide far less physical protection than passenger vehicles, the injuries resulting from these crashes are often severe even when the initial impact appears moderate.
Unique Roadway Conditions for Motorcyclists in Houston
Houston’s roadway system poses distinct challenges for motorcycle riders. Major highways such as Interstate 10, Interstate 45, and the Sam Houston Tollway carry enormous volumes of traffic throughout the day. The combination of high speeds and frequent lane changes increases the likelihood that surrounding drivers may overlook a rider.
Urban infrastructure can also create hazards that are especially dangerous for motorcycles. While a pothole or uneven roadway surface may be little more than a nuisance for a passenger vehicle, the same condition can destabilize a motorcycle and cause a rider to lose control.
Motorcyclists traveling in and around Houston often face:
Congested freeway merge points.
Construction zones that narrow traffic lanes.
Debris that falls from commercial vehicles.
Uneven pavement or expansion joints.
Sudden traffic slowdowns on high-speed highways.
Even experienced riders can be placed in dangerous situations when roadway conditions combine with inattentive drivers.
Visibility Challenges That Put Riders at Risk
One of the most consistent contributing factors in motorcycle collisions is driver visibility. Motorcycles occupy far less space on the roadway than passenger vehicles, making them easier to overlook, particularly in heavy traffic.
Drivers often rely on quick visual checks before turning or changing lanes. If a driver fails to perform a thorough mirror and blind spot check, a motorcycle can easily be missed. In many cases, drivers report that they never saw the rider before the collision occurred.
Visibility issues commonly arise during situations such as:
Left turns across oncoming traffic.
Lane changes on multilane highways.
Vehicles merging onto busy roadways.
Drivers exiting parking lots or private driveways.
Heavy traffic, poor lighting conditions, or driver distraction can compound these visibility problems.
The Role of Driver Bias Against Motorcyclists
Motorcycle accident cases sometimes involve another challenge that injured riders must overcome. Insurance companies and opposing parties occasionally attempt to portray riders as inherently reckless, regardless of the facts of the crash.
This bias can affect how claims are initially evaluated. Insurers may assume that speeding, aggressive riding, or unsafe behavior contributed to the collision, even when evidence does not support those assumptions.
Examples of bias-related arguments may include:
Suggesting that the rider was weaving through traffic.
Claiming that motorcycles are inherently difficult to see.
Arguing that riders assume greater risk by operating motorcycles.
Minimizing the responsibility of the passenger vehicle driver.
Overcoming these assumptions requires a careful review of the evidence and a clear explanation of how the crash actually occurred.
Evidence That Can Strengthen a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Motorcycle collision cases often require a detailed investigation to establish liability and demonstrate the full extent of the injuries involved. While police reports can provide an initial overview of the crash, additional evidence is frequently necessary to understand what happened.
Important sources of evidence may include:
Traffic camera or nearby business surveillance footage.
Vehicle event data recorder information.
Witness statements from other motorists or pedestrians.
Photographs of roadway conditions or debris.
Crash reconstruction analysis conducted by experts.
Electronic evidence has become particularly important in modern accident investigations. Vehicle data, mobile phone activity, and digital communications can help establish whether a driver was distracted or failed to react in time to avoid a collision.
The Long-Term Financial Consequences of Motorcycle Injuries
Motorcycle crashes frequently produce injuries that require far more than immediate emergency treatment. Many riders face long recovery periods, multiple surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation. The financial consequences of these injuries can extend well beyond the initial hospital stay.
Long-term costs associated with serious motorcycle injuries may include:
Ongoing medical treatment and follow-up procedures.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation services.
Assistive devices or mobility equipment.
Modifications to homes or vehicles.
Reduced earning capacity due to physical limitations.
In catastrophic injury cases, the total economic impact may extend for years or even decades. Evaluating these future costs is often a critical component of a motorcycle accident claim.
Why Early Legal Guidance Can Make a Difference
The period immediately following a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming. Injured riders must focus on medical treatment and recovery while insurance companies begin evaluating the claim. Early legal guidance can help ensure that critical evidence is preserved and that communications with insurers are handled strategically.
Important steps during the early stages of a case may include:
Preserving physical evidence from the crash scene.
Obtaining surveillance footage before it is overwritten.
Securing medical documentation related to injuries.
Identifying witnesses who observed the collision.
Reviewing insurance coverage available to compensate the victim.
Taking these steps early in the process can help ensure that the full circumstances of the crash are properly documented.
What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas?
Forty two percent of all fatal motorcycle crashes that involved another motor vehicle involved a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle was going straight. Even though the riders have the right of way in these scenarios, drivers cannot accurately gauge the speed or distance of the rider, which leads them to falsely believe they can turn ahead of them.
Other common causes of motorcycle accidents in Texas include:
Distracted driving
Head-on collisions
Impaired driving
Rear-end collisions from traveling too close to riders
Road hazards
Speeding
When a motorcyclist is hit by a much larger vehicle, the rider often suffers catastrophic injuries that change their lives. In addition, there were 482 motorcycle operators and passengers who were killed on our Texas roadways last year alone, which left family members reeling from their sudden losses.
If you were hurt in a Houston, TX motorcycle accident or lost a loved one to negligence, contact our skilled personal injury attorneys and wrongful death attorneys in Houston today for help.
What are the Most Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries Associated with Motorcycle Accidents in Texas?
All motorcycle accidents are unique, and so are the injuries our clients suffer during the collision.
Some of the most common types of catastrophic injuries may include:
Amputations
Burn injuries
Neck injuries
Nerve damage
Paralysis
Skull fractures
Spine injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
Traumatic orthopedic injuries
At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys in Houston represent clients throughout Texas because we know the lawyer you choose makes a difference. Since 2003, we have dedicated our practice to producing real results for real people whose lives have been impacted by negligence.
Our expert legal team has proven over thousands of personal injury cases, through the millions of dollars recovered for our clients, that personal attention matters.
We will fight for each form of financial recovery you deserve through negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company or prepare your case with precision for trial. When you are ready to contact an accomplished personal injury law firm in Houston, we are ready to hear your story.
While an estimated 96% of all personal injury cases end in a settlement outside of the courtroom, our law firm founder, Steve Hollingworth, has been the lead attorney in over 50 jury trials and lead counsel in over a dozen different Texas counties. Should your case go to trial, we will be ready to aggressively pursue the positive outcome you deserve in front of a judge and/or jury.
The insurance company will value a case more if it knows the firm is willing to go to trial. At the Hollingworth Law Firm, we are more than willing — we remain trial-ready.
How Hollingsworth Law Firm Supports Injured Motorcyclists
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand that motorcycle accident cases often involve severe injuries and complex liability questions. Our attorneys carefully investigate the facts surrounding each crash to determine how negligence contributed to the collision.
Our approach includes evaluating all available evidence, consulting experts when necessary, and assessing the long-term financial impact of the injuries. We work to ensure that injured riders receive the legal representation necessary to pursue compensation under Texas law.
Motorcycle accident cases require careful preparation and a clear understanding of how crashes occur on Texas roadways. Our legal team is committed to helping injured riders and their families move forward after life-changing collisions.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, Our Houston Personal Injury Attorney Also Focuses on the Following Practice Areas:
If you or someone you love has been injured or lost their life to negligence, contact our dedicated Houston personal injury lawyers at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today by calling 713-637-4560 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.
Our skilled bilingual personal injury lawyers and support staff represent clients throughout the state of Texas on a contingency basis, so you never pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
If you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so are we. Let us take the lead.
We also offer this practice area in the following cities
Frequently Asked Questions for Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Houston, Texas
Will I Get to Speak With a Houston Motorcycle Accident Attorney When I Call the Hollingsworth Law Firm?
At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, we are dedicated to pursuing actual results for our clients. That means everyone who calls our offices for help will speak directly with a personal injury attorney, so they understand their legal rights and options right away. Once we understand the details of our motorcycle accident and injuries, we can determine whether you have a viable case and will take the lead from there, so you can focus on your recovery.
What Type of Financial Recovery Can I Pursue During a Motorcycle Accident Case in Texas?
In most cases, our clients require access to the following forms of financial compensation, so they can get their lives back: Past and future medical expenses Loss of past and future wages Loss of wage-earning capacity Reduced future earning capacity Past and future pain and suffering Past and future mental anguish Physical impairment or disfigurement Our bilingual staff is here to listen to your story and learn all the ways negligence and your injuries have impacted your day-to-day activities and overall quality of life, so we can build a case that successfully represents your complete recovery needs.
Can I Pursue Financial Recovery from a Negligent Driver if I Was Not Wearing a Helmet?
The Texas Department of Transportation states all riders must wear a helmet if they are under 21. While all riders are encouraged to wear a helmet for safety, you may ride without one if you are over 21 and meet an eligible helmet exemption. If you were injured by a negligent driver and are not legally obligated to wear a helmet while riding in Texas, it should have no bearing on your personal injury case.
What compensation can be received after a motorcycle accident?
The compensation that can be received after a motorcycle accident can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident case?
Fault is determined in a motorcycle accident case by gathering evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and physical evidence, and determining who was negligent or at fault for the accident.
What if I missed the statute of limitations to file my case?
If you miss the statute of limitations to file your case, you may be barred from pursuing legal action. It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that you don’t miss any important deadlines.
Is lane splitting legal in Texas?
Lane splitting is not legal in the state of Texas.
At what age can you get a motorcycle license in Texas?
In Texas, you can obtain a motorcycle license at the age of 16 with parental consent, or at the age of 18 without parental consent.
If I was too injured to take photos at the scene of the accident do I still have a case?
Yes, you may still have a case even if you were too injured to take photos at the scene of the accident. While photos can be useful evidence in a motorcycle accident case, there are other types of evidence that can be used to support your claim. For example, witness statements, police reports, medical records, and expert testimony can all be used to establish fault and damages in a motorcycle accident case.
Do you have to file a police report after a motorcycle accident in Houston?
In Texas, you are required to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to the local police department or the nearest law enforcement agency. So, it is advisable to file a police report after a motorcycle accident in Houston. However, if the accident only involves minor injuries and property damage that do not exceed $1,000, then you may not be required to file a report.
Why do I need a motorcycle accident attorney after a crash in Houston?
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries and complicated legal processes. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, investigate the incident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, property damage, and more.
What damages can I claim after a motorcycle accident?
You may be eligible to claim damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages. An attorney can help you understand the potential damages applicable to your specific situation.
Steve Hollingsworth is a skilled trial attorney with over 50 cases tried across Texas. With experience as a felony prosecutor and representing major insurers, he now focuses on helping injured Texans in areas like car, motorcycle, trucking accidents, and premises liability. Steve founded his own firm to provide dedicated, client-focused legal representation.
Awesome Attorney
I was a client of Steve Hollingsworth. I was totally satisfied with his representation of me. He was very helpful in answering all my questions and always kept me updated on the status of my case. I am very happy with the settlement of the case and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for legal advice.
RossanaFormer Client
Houston’s Best Consultation!
Steve was just great! Very easy to work with, communicates really well and most importantly sets realistic expectations. He is very straightforward and promptly responds to all your questions. I would definitely recommend Steve and would not hesitate to hire him in the future.
AnonymousFormer Client
Very Accommodating and Caring
Steve and his assistant Kristina takes care of all my requests right away. Steve personally calls on issues and keeps me updated on the developments of the case. Got me a great settlement! Would highly recommend!
Mila G.Former Client
Rear End Case
Mr. Hollingsworth was an excellent lawyer in my case. He kept me up to date and informed through the whole process. He was always honest and fought hard in my case. He comes highly recommend.
Anonymous Former Client
Awesome!!!!!
I have no complaints; Steve did a very good job on explaining the details on everything that I was going through with my case. Steve got my case settled in no time, I will sure spread the word about Steve he is a very great lawyer.
SaraFormer Client
Review
I liked how Steve explained everything, so I knew what I was getting in to. Steve got me what I deserved in no time. I would recommend him to anyone.
AndrewFormer Client
Steven and I attended law school together and I have known him since 2000. He was stellar in representing a close friend with a personal injury matter. I have been very impressed with his communication, dedication and thoroughness in representation.
Pamela V.Attorney from Cypress, TX
Steve is the real deal! He is an extremely invaluable resource on all things Litigation for me as a younger attorney. He is not only great a securing the bigger verdicts, but actually cares about the clients and still sticks by his tried and true method of meeting, in person, with his clients to go over facts .
overall, a solid attorney, with a wealth of knowledge!
Crystal H.Attorney from Houston, TX
Steve and I were colleagues, where we worked on complex personal injury and wrongful death cases. What I observed in the years we worked together is that Steve is not only extremely skillful in his profession, but he is a tireless student of the law, constantly working to perfect the art of practicing law.
He genuinely cares about his clients and their cases and it shows. He has excellent work ethic. He is not only a terrific lawyer but also a great person. As a fellow member of the State Bar of Texas, I would recommend Steve to anyone needing a zealous advocate in a personal injury case.
Vivian E.Attorney from San Antonio, TX
After working with Steve for a couple of years, I found Steve to be an outstanding, aggressive and highly skilled lawyer in the courtroom. His confidence and knowledge of the courtroom and what it takes to succeed there, I believe will ensure his long term prosperity.
Robin T.Attorney from College Station, TX
I had the pleasure of working on a trial with Steven last August. His background as an ADA is clearly evident in the courtroom. Steven’s presentation of the evidence throughout trial is that of a seasoned attorney who has spent many hours in front of a jury.
His opening/closings were excellent, as well as his strategic litigating throughout the trial. Steven is a consummate professional and a pleasure to work with, and watch in the courtroom.
James H.From Miami, FL
When I met Steve, I was a legal assistant at a Plaintiff’s firm and he was working as an attorney for AIG. We connected there and then. Steve is a likable guy and an outstanding trial lawyer. He is charismatic and jurors like him.
He is a Plaintiff’s lawyer now and he has the right skill set to represent injured individuals: he is compassionate, honest, and sincere and will go the extra mile for his clients. I’ve known Steve for almost 8 years now and I’m excited to see his career evolve.
Alice L. Attorney in Houston, TX
Professional and Thorough
I used Steve Hollingsworth for a personal injury case following a car accident. He was very easy to work with and managed my expectations regarding costs, time commitment/duration, filing suit etc. Steve kept me informed during the process and always made sure I understand what everything meant.
My case took about 18 months to resolve, ending in mediation after filing suit and he pushed hard to make sure my best interest was represented and to ensure that I had the best possible (and fair) outcome.
I hope I never have a personal injury claim again but if I do, I would absolutely consult with Steve. He exceeded my expectations and made the process as painless as possible. I would high recommend him.
JessieFormer Client
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