Del Rio Motorcycle Accident Fatalities

Motorcyclists in Del Rio face a number of challenges when they take to local roads and highways. Their ability to outperform standard automobiles and trucks, in addition to having less stability and visibility than other vehicles, poses significant safety challenges for motorcycle enthusiasts. While drivers of cars have the protection of their vehicles in accidents, motorcyclists are immediately exposed increasing the risk of serious injury or loss of life. When this happens, it’s important to consider speaking with an experienced Del Rio motorcycle accident death lawyer for counsel.

Texas law exempts motorcycle operators from wearing helmets if they are 21 years of age or older and have completed a state approved motorcycle operator’s course or they can give proof of carrying a minimum of $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. This is especially troubling because the most common cause of fatality among motorcyclists is head trauma.

Last year alone, there were close to 500 fatalities as the result of motorcycle accidents. Many of these deaths were the result of the negligence on the part of the driver of a passenger vehicle. Many car and truck operators are unaware of the challenges faced by motorcyclists and will assume they are no more prone to serious injury or death than any other drivers. Sadly, Del Rio motorcycle accident fatalities are often avoidable.

Some drivers crowd out motorcycles with their vehicles, forcing them off the road. Others may fail to yield the right of way. Still other drivers simply aren’t paying attention to what’s going on around them and cause a serious accident with a motorcyclist.

When a loved one has become the victim of a Del Rio motorcycle accident fatality, there are both immediate and lifelong effects on the surviving family members. Initially, there are medical and funeral expenses to cover, but there are also long-term effects involving the loss of income to the family, as well as the loss of the relationship itself.

When an individual dies as the result of another party’s negligence in Del Rio, Texas law allows the surviving spouse and/or children to pursue a wrongful death claim either individually or jointly. A consultation with a knowledgeable Del Rio motorcycle accident death lawyer can lay out the best option for your situation.

Wrongful death claims in Del Rio seek payment in compensation for Del Rio motorcycle accident fatalities resulting from the negligent actions of another driver. These claims will cover definite expenses such as lost incomes, but they will also address less definite monetary losses. Such less-tangible losses could be future earning capacity, potential lost inheritance, and the emotional anguish and loss of companionship resulting from a motorcycle fatality.

Texas does place a two year statute of limitations on filing any Del Rio wrongful death claim, so time is of the essence. Again, the skill of a Del Rio motorcycle accident death lawyer can be of great benefit to those who have been affected by such a tragedy.

After an accident of this type, it’s not uncommon to be contacted by the insurance company of the driver at fault for the accident. On the advice of attorneys working on behalf of the insurance company, their representatives may want to discuss a potential settlement offer with the surviving family members. It’s in your best interest to speak first with an attorney of your own to ensure you don’t jeopardize your rights.

You may also be contacted by less scrupulous lawyers who may make attractive promises to you, but may not be able to actually deliver on those promises. These ambulance chasers are often trying to take advantage of people when they are emotionally vulnerable.

The lawyers of Carabin Shaw have extensive experience dealing with wrongful death claims. Our attorneys will work hard to ensure your rights are protected. Your first meeting with us is free of charge, and we work strictly on a contingency basis, which means we don’t collect any fees unless we win your case.

To schedule an appointment and free consultation with one of our attorneys in Del Rio, call us today at 800-862-1260.