Brian White | May 6, 2021 | Motorcycle Accidents

For a dedicated motorcyclist, a motorcycle is always going to be worth the cost. Riding a motorcycle is more than just enjoying the open road. Many riders own a motorcycle because they are fuel-efficient and can be less costly to maintain than an automobile. 

However, there are numerous costs that come with riding a motorcycle. Some of those costs are monetary. Other “costs” include the risk of injury in a motorcycle accident. Before purchasing a motorcycle, it is wise to consider all of the costs and risks of riding a motorcycle.

Cost of Motorcycle Insurance in Texas

Motorcycles are treated as automobiles for insurance purposes. Riders must purchase minimum amounts of liability insurance for their motorcycles. 

Required motorcycle insurance in Texas includes:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury to one person in an accident caused by the motorcyclist
  • $60,000 for bodily injury for two or more people in an accident caused by the motorcyclist
  • $25,000 for property damage in an accident caused by the motorcyclist

A motorcyclist is encouraged to purchase other types of insurance to protect their investment in the motorcycle and themselves in the event of an accident. Riders may want to consider underinsured motorist coverage, collision insurance, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured motorist insurance. 

Title, Registration, and Motorcycle Licenses

Motorcycles must be titled and registered just like an automobile. There will be costs to renew registrations each year.

Additionally, riders must have a motorcycle license to operate a motorcycle. Individuals are required to complete an approved motorcycle safety course to obtain their motorcycle license. Therefore, you have the initial cost of obtaining a motorcycle license and periodic costs of renewing the motorcycle license. 

Motorcycle Helmets and Protective Gear

Riders in Texas are required to wear a motorcycle helmet if they are under the age of 21 years. However, adults over 21 years of age can choose not to wear a motorcycle helmet if they meet one of the exceptions. 

A motorcyclist can opt not to wear a motorcycle helmet if they meet one of two exceptions:

  • They are at least 21 years old and successfully complete a motorcycle training and safety course, OR
  • They are covered by a health insurance plan that provides medical benefits for motorcycle accident injuries

A motorcyclist may choose not to wear one, but motorcycle helmets and other protective gear reduce the risk of severe injuries in a motorcycle crash. Therefore, the cost of the motorcycle helmet and protective gear is worth the investment to potentially avoid a life-threatening motorcycle injury.

In addition to a motorcycle helmet, a rider may want to invest in quality motorcycle boots and gloves. Specialized motorcycle apparel reduces the risk of some types of injuries, such as fractures and abrasions. The gear can be expensive, but your life is worth much more.

Risk of Injuries from a Motorcycle Crash

Motorcyclists are 28 percent more likely to be killed in an accident than other motorists. Riders are at higher risk for severe injuries in a collision since motorcycles do not have a frame and other safety features of cars.

Common injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes include:

The damages caused by a motorcycle accident can be extensive. If another party caused your motorcycle crash, you could be entitled to compensation for your damages. 

What Damages Can I Recover for a Motorcycle Accident?

You may be the safest rider you know. Still, you could still be involved in a motorcycle crash. A distracted, speeding, or careless driver may cut you off at an intersection or rear-end you in traffic. An at-fault driver can be held financially liable for your damages.

The types of damages in a motorcycle accident claim include:

  • Medical bills and expenses of treatment
  • The cost of personal care and in-home health care
  • Physical pain and suffering 
  • Permanent impairments, scarring, disabilities, and disfigurements
  • Loss of income, including decreased earning potential
  • Mental anguish, emotional distress, and psychological injuries
  • Decreased quality of life and loss of enjoyment of life

Documenting and valuing damages is crucial if you want to receive reimbursement for financial losses and compensation for non-economic damages. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you document your damages and calculate the accurate value of your personal injury claim.

Your time to file a motorcycle accident claim is set by the Texas statute of limitations. Protect yourself by seeking legal advice as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident. You do not want to lose the right to sue the driver who caused your injuries because of a missed deadline. 

Contact the Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help

For more information, contact the Houston motorcycle accident law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 224-4878. 

Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers
3120 Southwest Freeway, Suite 350
Houston, TX 77098
United States

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11811 East Fwy, Suite 630-06
Houston, TX 77029
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Houston, TX 77054
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