Motorcycle Accidents: Causes, Consequences & Legal Help

Motorcycle crashes can change lives in seconds. Whether it’s a major collision on I-20 or a side-impact accident along Cooper Street, the injuries riders suffer are often severe and long-lasting. At Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, we’ve seen the toll these crashes take on Arlington residents. That’s why we fight for injured motorcyclists and their families. If you’re coping with injuries from motorcycle accidents, it’s important to understand the common causes, how Texas law applies, and how our legal team can support your recovery.

Typical Injuries & Fatality Trends

Riders have far less protection than drivers. There’s no steel frame to absorb the shock, no airbags to cushion the blow, and no crumple zones to distribute impact. In a collision, the motorcyclist often takes the full force of the crash, which explains why these injuries are typically more catastrophic than those seen in car accidents. Broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage are all too common. In Texas, motorcycles account for a much higher percentage of fatal accidents than their registration numbers suggest. While they make up a small fraction of vehicles on the road, they’re involved in a disproportionate number of deadly collisions each year, especially in fast-growing urban areas like Arlington, where traffic density increases risk.

National Stats vs. Arlington’s Rates

According to the National Safety Council, motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41% effective for passengers. These numbers highlight just how critical proper head protection is in a crash. Helmet use among all riders increased to 73.8%, a promising trend that reflects growing awareness about safety and the effectiveness of DOT-compliant gear. The increase marks a 7.3 percentage point improvement and a 9.5 percentage point increase over the last ten years. However, Arlington continues to lag behind in compliance. Riders often ignore helmet use during short commutes or neighborhood rides, not realizing that most fatal crashes occur close to home. As a result, the city’s fatality rates remain stubbornly high compared to regions with higher compliance levels.

What Types of Injuries Are Most Common?

In a motorcycle crash, a rider may be thrown from their vehicle or pinned beneath another car. Either scenario results in multiple points of impact. Here are the most frequently seen injuries:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, head trauma can occur during violent impacts.
• Spinal Cord Damage: These injuries may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
• Fractures: Collarbones, ribs, wrists, and legs are especially vulnerable.
• Road Rash: Severe abrasions that sometimes require skin grafts or lead to infection.
• Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage: Not always obvious at first, these injuries require immediate medical attention.

Who Gets Hurt the Most? Demographics & Risk Factors

Young males under 35 are most frequently injured in motorcycle accidents, according to national data. Their preference for high-speed riding, less experience on the road, and a lower likelihood of using protective gear all contribute to this trend. But Arlington presents unique concerns that further elevate these risks:

• Urban Traffic Density: Motorcyclists weaving through traffic or being cut off in congested zones increases risk, especially during peak hours along routes like I-20 or Division Street.
• Weather: Sudden rain, heat bursts, or high winds on Arlington’s open highways can lead to reduced traction and instability, especially for new or less confident riders.
• Distracted Driving: Many motorcycle accidents involve a driver failing to see the rider while texting, eating, or adjusting GPS—split-second distractions that have devastating consequences for exposed riders.

Why Head Injuries Dominate—and How to Prevent Them

Texas helmet laws and practices

In Texas, riders over 21 may legally ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course and carry proper insurance. However, not wearing a helmet increases your chance of death or serious head injury by a wide margin. Texas doesn’t require police to verify a rider’s exemption, which means enforcement is limited.

Tips for effective helmet fitting

Proper helmet fit can make all the difference. Follow these steps:

• Ensure DOT certification is clearly labeled
• The helmet should sit snugly without causing discomfort
• Fasten the chin strap securely
• Replace helmets after any major impact or every 5 years, whichever comes first

A well-fitted helmet not only protects your brain, it helps reduce facial trauma and neck strain during an accident.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Arlington

The aftermath of a crash is chaotic, but quick action protects your health and your legal rights:

1. Seek immediate medical attention even if you feel fine.
2. Report the crash to Arlington police and request a copy of the accident report.
3. Document the scene with photos, names of witnesses, and insurance info.
4. Avoid discussing fault at the scene or with the other driver’s insurer.
5. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer who understands Texas injury law.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Supports Injury Recovery

When you’re dealing with high medical bills and weeks of missed work, legal guidance makes a huge difference. Here’s how we can help:

• Investigate fault: We reconstruct the scene, gather witness statements, and analyze road conditions.
• Handle insurance negotiations: We push back when insurers try to downplay injuries or shift blame.
• Maximize compensation: From hospital stays to physical therapy and lost wages, we ensure nothing is left off the table.
• Support long-term care planning: Serious injuries may require life-care experts and specialists. We factor these costs into your claim.

Motorcycle accidents aren’t like typical car crashes. We know how to frame your case for judges and insurance adjusters who may not understand the unique trauma involved.

Ready to Get Legal Help That Makes a Difference?

If you or someone you love is recovering from injuries from motorcycle accidents, we’re ready to help. Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn has deep roots in the Arlington community and a long track record of standing up for injured motorcyclists.

Don’t wait to find out your rights or risk missing a critical deadline. Our team is here to listen, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 817-920-9000 to schedule your free consultation today.