Most Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

Motorcycles face unique risks on Texas roads, and accidents are often caused by the negligence of other drivers. When a motorcycle crash occurs, the consequences are typically severe, with victims suffering life-altering injuries. The San Antonio motorcycle accident lawyers at Wyatt Law Firm have extensive experience handling bike wreck cases and fighting for the compensation victims deserve. Our case results include a $3.9 million recovery for a motorcycle accident victim.

Below are the most common types of motorcycle accidents, including how they happen and who is typically at fault. Were you injured in one of these common types of Texas bike wrecks?  Contact Wyatt Law Firm for a free consultation to protect your right to compensation and learn more about your legal options for justice.

1. Left-Turn Accidents. These crashes often occur when a driver makes a left turn at an intersection without seeing an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers frequently underestimate the speed of motorcycles or fail to check for them, making left-turn accidents a leading cause of serious motorcycle crashes. The driver making the turn is almost always liable for failing to yield the right of way.
2. Rear-End Collisions. Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable to rear-end crashes, which often happen at intersections or in stop-and-go traffic. When a vehicle hits a motorcycle from behind, the impact can eject the rider, causing severe injuries. Distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden stops are common factors, with liability typically resting on the driver who failed to maintain a safe following distance.
3. Sideswipe Accidents. A sideswipe occurs when a vehicle drifts into a motorcycle’s lane. These accidents often result from drivers not checking their mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes. Because motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, inattentive drivers often fail to notice them. The fault usually lies with the driver who didn’t check their blind spots properly.
4. Head-On Collisions. Head-on collisions are among the most devastating motorcycle accidents, often happening on rural roads when a vehicle crosses the center line. The impact of a head-on crash can be fatal for motorcyclists due to the high speeds involved. Drunk driving, fatigue, and distracted driving are common causes, with liability falling on the driver who failed to stay in their lane.
5. Lane-Splitting Accidents. While lane-splitting isn’t explicitly legal in Texas, many motorcyclists still use this practice to navigate slow-moving traffic. Accidents happen when drivers change lanes without noticing a motorcycle splitting the lane. Liability often depends on whether the driver made an unsafe lane change or wasn’t paying attention.
6. T-Bone Accidents. T-bone crashes, or side-impact collisions, typically happen at intersections when a driver fails to yield and strikes a motorcycle from the side. Running red lights, stop sign violations, or distracted driving are common factors. The driver who failed to yield the right of way is almost always at fault.
7. Dooring Accidents. Dooring accidents occur when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. These incidents are common in urban areas with street parking. Drivers and passengers are responsible for checking for traffic before opening their doors, making them liable when they fail to do so.
8. Drunk Driving Crashes. Accidents involving drunk drivers are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, making it difficult for them to see motorcycles or react in time. In Texas, liability for these accidents almost always rests with the drunk driver.
9. Speeding-Related Accidents. Speeding by other drivers can be deadly for motorcyclists. When cars or trucks exceed the speed limit, it reduces their reaction time and increases the force of impact in a collision. Drivers who speed are typically at fault for accidents caused by their reckless behavior.
10. Distracted Driving Accidents. Distracted drivers are a major threat to motorcyclists. Texting, using GPS, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems can take a driver’s eyes off the road for just seconds, but that’s enough time to miss seeing a motorcycle. Liability generally falls on the distracted driver for failing to pay attention.