Single-vehicle motorcycle accidents injure a substantial number of people every year. While it may initially seem like single vehicle crashes generally would not entitle victims to compensation, in reality, many people who are involved in these kinds of wrecks are to able recover for their losses.
Like any other accident, in order to be actionable, a single-vehicle crash must have been caused by someone other than that victim himself or herself. As a result, in many cases, it is necessary to investigate the way in which the accident occurred so that victims can identify the person or party that caused their wreck. Some of the more common causes of single-vehicle crashes that entitle victims to compensation are discussed below.
Motorcycle Defects
After a single-vehicle crash, victims should always consider whether a problem with the way that their bike was designed, manufactured, or marketed was a factor in causing the wreck. Some of the more common defects that can cause accidents include the following:
- Faulty brakes
- Tire defects
- Design flaws that make the bike unstable
- Problems with the steering mechanism
- Accelerator flaws
Defectively Designed or Maintained Roadways
Roadway defects are another common cause of single-vehicle motorcycle accidents. Because motorcycles have only two points of contact with the road and are significantly lighter than cars and trucks, they are often much more affected by roadway defects than other vehicles. Some road hazards that can cause serious accidents are as follows:
- Potholes
- Inadequate drainage
- Missing signs
- Overgrown trees or bushes
- Defective stop lights
It is important for victims of accidents caused by defective roadways to be aware of the fact that claims against government agencies are subject to a specific set of rules found in the Texas Tort Claims Act that can substantially limit the amount of time they have to file a claim. For this reason, it is critical for anyone hurt in a single-vehicle accident to speak to an attorney as soon as they can. Waiting even a few months could result in not being able to file a claim.
Contact a Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today to Discuss Your Case
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should speak to an attorney immediately. Houston motorcycle accident attorney Stewart Guss is dedicated to helping accident victims get the compensation to which they are entitled and holding negligent drivers responsible for their actions. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 713-766-5883 or contact us online.
1 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/CP/htm/CP.101.htm
