Vehicle Accidents Attorney in Tyler, Texas

Accidents on The Road Can Knock Your
Life Off Track

Year after year, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has listed car accidents among the top causes of premature deaths of Americans. In 2014, Texans suffered 92,000 vehicle accidents with 91,833 attributed to driver inattention.

The Texas Department of Transportation reported 3,423 accidents directly attributed to cell phone use, 51 of which were fatal and another 718 led to severe injuries. Impaired driving, caused by drugs or alcohol, accounted for roughly 19,000 more accidents on Texas roads that year. 

These accidents can happen to anyone, bringing about devastating consequences, no matter how competent you are behind the wheel. The effects can be long-term injuries costing you and your family thousands in medical treatment bills and possible lost wages.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas

Cruising across Texas’ highways on two wheels is a great way to experience the expanse and beauty of our state, but the carelessness of bad drivers can cause serious and life-altering injuries to motorcyclists. In 2014, there were 8,819 accidents involving motorcycles.

Motorcycle accidents are often the result of driver inattention coupled with a lack of awareness and sensitivity toward sharing the road with motorcyclists.

One of the best ways to protect yourself on a motorcycle is by wearing a helmet. Nearly half of the reported motorcycle fatalities involved motorcyclists not wearing helmets. Texas values personal freedom and is among the states that have repealed the "universal helmet law." This, unfortunately, has led to an increase in motorcycle collision fatalities.

Big rigs Accidents mean big consequences

The average tractor trailer rig is a hulking, 80,000-pound machine that dwarfs the average passenger car, which weighs around 4,000 pounds. According to a 2014 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety report, passenger vehicle occupants are more likely to die in a collision with a large truck as opposed to a collision with a passenger vehicle. In that year, around 68% of passenger vehicle occupant fatalities involved collisions with18 wheelers. Another 15% of those fatalities involved pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcycles.  

Many 18 wheeler accidents involve fatigue on the part of the tractor trailer operator. Many drivers are pushed to deliver through bonuses or expectation to meet nearly impossible deadlines, leading to more hours illegally logged behind the wheel and less sleep.

Dealing with The Aftermath of A Vehicle Accident

The first step you need to take after a vehicle accident caused by someone else is to remain calm. Take note of your surroundings and document the damage. If emergency personnel arrive, do not refuse treatment.

Do not speak with an adjuster or sign any documents without consulting with an attorney. The at-fault party's insurance company's definition of "fair" may be a far cry from what you are legally entitled to. You need an experienced attorney to make sure that you are fully compensated for your injuries.

Tyler, Texas attorney Brent J. Spinks provides personal attention to personal injury cases. He handles cases throughout Texas and has a proven track record for helping injured clients for more than 20 years.

If you are injured through someone else's carelessness, whether it involved a motorcycle, 18-wheeler or the fault of a drunk driver, Brent can ensure that the insurance company handles your claim with the seriousness that it deserves.

He will ensure you receive appropriate medical treatment, assist you with your property damage and review and explain your personal automobile insurance coverage.