Negligent Driving and Motorcycle Accidents

The sense of freedom and adventure motorcycle riders experience comes with unique risks. Motorcycles are less crashworthy, less stable, and less visible to other drivers than four-wheeled passenger vehicles. Many motorcycle accidents are the result of negligent driving by other vehicle operators.

man on motorcycle

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The following are some key facts about motorcycle accidents in the U.S.:

  • Although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles in the U.S., motorcyclists accounted for 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries in a recently reported year, per the National Safety Council
  • The number of nonfatal motorcycle accident injuries increased by 2.6% from 2021 to 2022. 
  • The majority of motorcycle fatalities in 2022 occurred on urban roads, in good weather, during the daytime, while wearing helmets, and in crashes involving two vehicles. 
    72% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were NOT alcohol-impaired. 

How Are Motorcycle Accidents Different from Car Accidents?

Motorcycle accident cases differ from car accident claims in the following key ways:

  • Severity of injuries: Motorcyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries in a crash as they lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. Common injuries include traumatic brain injury, fractured bones, spinal cord injury, and severe road rash. These types of injuries may require extensive medical treatment and result in long-term disabilities. 
  • Complex liability issues: Determining liability in a motorcycle crash can be more complicated than with a collision involving two or more cars. Factors such as motorcycle maintenance, road conditions, and the actions of other drivers play a role in establishing fault. 
  • Bias against motorcyclists: It is a common misconception that motorcyclists are more reckless and likely to cause accidents than passenger vehicle drivers. This bias against riders can affect how police reports are written, how insurance companies evaluate claims, and how jurors in civil court perceive cases. A seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer who understands these biases can advocate more effectively on your behalf.
Banner media

What Are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Collisions?

Many factors can contribute to motorcycle accidents, including weather and road conditions and the actions of other drivers. The following are some of the most common causes:

Distracted driving

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than passenger vehicles. A driver who is texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may fail to register a motorcycle in the roadway.

Negligent left turns

Many motorcycle accidents happen when a vehicle turns left into the path of an oncoming motorcycle because the driver failed to see the bike or misjudged its speed.

Aggressive driving

Speeding, tailgating, and other reckless driving behaviors can make it difficult for a driver to see a motorcycle and react in time to avoid a collision.

Failure to yield

Riders may be seriously injured when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections or when changing lanes.

Road hazards

Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, and other road hazards can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident.

How Can a San Antonio Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help?

Our board-certified personal injury trial lawyers can thoroughly investigate your motorcycle accident. We can gather evidence to support your claim, identify all liable parties, and build a strong case based on the facts. Our seasoned trial lawyers can negotiate aggressively with insurance companies on your behalf for the best available settlement.

Tyler and Hella Scheuerman are Board-Certified Specialists in Personal Injury Trial Law—a rare qualification, revealing extensive experience, additional training, and a track record of positive case outcomes. If necessary, we are fully prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve in court. Contact Scheuerman Law Firm in San Antonio to discuss your legal options after a serious motorcycle accident. 

Tyler Scheuerman - Super Lawyers 2023 Board Certified - Texas Board of Legal Specialization Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rated logo AV Preeminent 2016 award Super Lawyers Tyler Scheuerman - 15 years American Board of Trial Advocates logo Texas Bar College logo State Bar of Texas logo
Tyler Scheuerman - Super Lawyers 2023
Board Certified - Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rated logo
AV Preeminent 2016 award
Super Lawyers Tyler Scheuerman - 15 years
American Board of Trial Advocates logo
Texas Bar College logo
State Bar of Texas logo

Ready to Discuss Your Case?Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (210) 469-1980.
Contact Us