Car Accident Attorney in Dallas
At The Wilhite Law Firm, our attorneys protect the rights of motorcycle riders who have been injured in accidents in Dallas. We understand the devastating personal and financial consequences of these crashes. That’s why we work tirelessly to pursue the maximum amount of compensation for the motorcycle accident victims and families we represent.
Our Dallas motorcycle accident lawyers are committed to providing the highest level of customer service through every stage of our client’s cases. When you contact us for your free initial consultation, you will speak directly to an experienced and attentive motorcycle accident injury attorney rather than being passed off to an assistant. Our devotion to accessibility and transparency means you will feel comfortable and confident in how your case is being handled every step of the way.
One of the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Dallas
Don’t wait to talk to an understanding and skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Dallas who can explain your options for pursuing the full financial recovery you need. Contact Dallas motorcycle accident attorneys at The Wilhite Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Understanding Texas Motorcycle Laws
Every motorcycle rider in Texas should understand the following motorcycle laws:
- Motorcyclists are required to have valid class M licenses.
- Motorcyclists under the age of 21 are required to wear approved motorcycle helmets. Those 21 and older can ride without a helmet if they complete specific training courses or purchase at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage.
- Motorcyclists may not transport any passengers younger than 5. Passengers under 21 must wear approved helmets, and passengers 21 and older can forego helmets if the rider has met the legal requirements.
- While no law specifically mentions lane-splitting, motorcyclists are prohibited from lane-splitting in Texas based on Texas Transportation Code § 545.060, which requires all road users to remain within a single lane.
- Motorcyclists may not park in the striped areas next to handicap parking spaces.
How Do You Know If You Have a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Under Texas law, drivers must demonstrate their ability to pay for any harm that results from accidents they cause. Most drivers obey this law by purchasing auto liability insurance that covers others’ injuries or property damage after a crash.
If you were injured in a Dallas motorcycle accident, you have the right to file a fault-based insurance claim or even a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. If you carry no-fault insurance coverage such as personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay) coverage, then you could also file a claim with your own provider.
How Long Do You Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
Under Texas law, you typically have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a civil lawsuit. This time period is known as the statute of limitations. If you wait to file a lawsuit until after the two-year deadline has expired, your case will likely be dismissed, and you will lose your right to claim compensation for your losses. For this reason, you should not hesitate to contact The Wilhite Law Firm to discuss your potential Dallas motorcycle accident claim. Our Dallas personal injury lawyers can help.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Our motorcycle crash attorneys are always available to answer questions about Dallas motorcycle wrecks. To discuss the specific facts and circumstances of your case, contact The Wilhite Law Firm for a free consultation.
Motorcycle Accident
What if I am partly at fault for my motorcycle crash?
If you were partially responsible for the motorcycle accident, you could still recover compensation for your losses. However, Texas follows a comparative negligence doctrine that can reduce the amount of compensation you receive based on the amount of fault you share for the crash.
For example, if you were speeding when another driver changed lanes and collided with you, a jury may determine you were 20 percent at fault for the wreck. If you were 20 percent at fault, the maximum amount of compensation you could recover would be 80 percent of the total value of your losses. However, if you were 51 percent or more at fault, you would be legally barred from recovering compensation.
What if the driver who hit me is uninsured?
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by an uninsured driver, you may still have options for recovery. Your liability insurance won’t pay for your own losses, but you may be entitled to insurance benefits if you carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
You could file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, but if they don’t have the money to pay for your losses, you may not receive the compensation you need even with a favorable verdict. A lawyer can help you determine the best way to pursue the compensation you deserve.
What should I say if an insurance adjuster contacts me after a motorcycle crash?
If an insurance adjuster contacts you to discuss your claim after a motorcycle accident, avoid apologizing or admitting fault for the crash in any way. If they ask you any questions about the accident, keep your responses brief and to the point.
Don’t offer any extra details or your opinions about the accident, as anything you say to the adjuster may be used against you later on. If you have an attorney, it’s best to simply refer the adjuster to them. If you don’t have an attorney, a lawyer can still provide useful advice about what to say and what not to say to the insurance company.
Should I accept a motorcycle accident settlement?
In many cases, insurance companies make lowball initial settlement offers in the hopes that desperate accident victims will accept far less than they deserve. Don’t fall for this underhanded tactic.
If you don’t feel comfortable negotiating yourself, an attorney can demand fair compensation during settlement talks on your behalf. Attorneys have the experience needed to estimate the full value of your claim and the negotiating skills needed to fight for full compensation.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Dallas?
After a motorcycle accident, you may be understandably concerned about the cost of hiring an attorney. At The Wilhite Law Firm, we provide our services on a contingency basis, which means we don’t get paid unless you do. We also offer free initial consultations and charge no upfront costs to start work on your case.
