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Motorcycle Accidents in Lubbock County, Texas: High Plains Hazards, Urban Risks, and Legal Guidance

by | Oct 15, 2021 | Auto Accident, Firm News

Lubbock County, located in the High Plains region of West Texas, presents a unique set of challenges for motorcyclists. With a combination of urban traffic in Lubbock city, expansive rural areas, and frequent wind and dust conditions, the risks of motorcycle accidents are significant. This article will cover the key factors contributing to motorcycle accidents in Lubbock County, common types of injuries, and legal options for those affected.

Key Risk Factors for Motorcycle Accidents in Lubbock County

Several factors make Lubbock County a challenging environment for motorcyclists, contributing to the risk of accidents:

  1. High Plains Wind and Dust: Lubbock County is known for its strong winds, especially in the open plains surrounding the city. High winds can destabilize motorcycles, particularly at higher speeds or when passing large vehicles. Additionally, dust storms are common and can significantly reduce visibility for both motorcyclists and other drivers.
  2. Urban Traffic in Lubbock City: As the hub of the county, the city of Lubbock experiences significant traffic congestion, especially around major intersections, Texas Tech University, and during events such as football games. Heavy urban traffic increases the risk of collisions due to sudden stops, lane changes, and distracted driving.
  3. Long, Straight Rural Roads: The county features many rural roads that are long and straight, which can lead to speeding and inattentive driving. Motorists may not be prepared for the sudden appearance of a motorcycle, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.
  4. Agricultural Vehicles: The surrounding agricultural industry means that motorcyclists may frequently encounter tractors, combines, and other farm equipment on rural roads. These vehicles can travel at slower speeds and may unexpectedly enter the roadway from fields.
  5. Wildlife Crossings: Rural areas in Lubbock County have a higher likelihood of wildlife crossing the road, especially deer. Collisions with animals pose a serious risk to motorcyclists, who may be thrown from their bikes in such incidents.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in Lubbock County

Motorcycle accidents in Lubbock County can result in a variety of injuries, often exacerbated by the unique local conditions:

  • Head Injuries from Dust and Debris: With frequent dust storms, motorcyclists are at an increased risk of eye injuries or head trauma if visibility is reduced or they lose control. Even with a helmet, dust and flying debris can be hazardous.
  • Lower Body Injuries: The likelihood of collisions with large agricultural vehicles or wildlife can lead to severe injuries to the legs, feet, and pelvis. These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Spinal Injuries from Falls: Given the prevalence of long, straight roads, sudden stops or collisions can cause riders to be thrown from their motorcycles, resulting in back or spinal injuries.
  • Road Rash on Gravel or Unpaved Shoulders: In rural areas, many road shoulders consist of gravel or dirt. If a motorcyclist goes off the road, the rough terrain can cause severe abrasions or road rash.

Legal Considerations for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Lubbock County

Navigating the legal landscape after a motorcycle accident in Lubbock County involves some specific challenges:

  1. Accidents Involving Agricultural Vehicles: If an accident involves a farm vehicle, determining liability may require assessing whether the vehicle was legally on the road and whether appropriate safety measures were in place, such as reflective markings or lights.
  2. Comparative Fault Law: Under Texas law, victims can recover compensation if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. The amount of compensation is reduced by the victim’s percentage of fault, making it important to carefully document the circumstances of the accident.
  3. Dust Storm-Related Accidents: If a dust storm played a role in causing the accident, establishing liability can be complex. Drivers may argue that the storm was an “act of God” to avoid liability. Legal representation is crucial to demonstrate negligence if another driver failed to take appropriate precautions in poor visibility.

Safety Recommendations for Motorcyclists in Lubbock County

Motorcyclists can take several steps to reduce the risk of accidents and protect themselves in Lubbock County:

  • Be Prepared for Wind and Dust: Wear protective gear, including a full-face helmet and eye protection, to guard against dust and flying debris. Check weather reports for wind conditions before setting out on a ride.
  • Use Caution Around Agricultural Equipment: When riding on rural roads, be aware of farm vehicles and give them plenty of space. If passing, do so only when it is safe and legal.
  • Slow Down on Rural Roads: Even though long, straight roads may be tempting for speeding, it’s important to maintain a reasonable speed, especially in areas where wildlife is common or where road conditions may suddenly change.
  • Increase Visibility in Urban Areas: In Lubbock city, use high-visibility clothing and auxiliary lights to make yourself more noticeable to other drivers, particularly in heavy traffic or at night.
  • Avoid Riding During Dust Storm Warnings: If a dust storm warning is in effect, it is safer to postpone riding. If you are caught in a dust storm while on the road, pull over to a safe location and wait for visibility to improve.

Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm for Help with Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and learn how we can help you.  The experienced accident attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 to learn more about your legal rights.