Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents across Texas — and for riders, the consequences can be life-altering or fatal. While any motorist is at risk when someone isn’t paying attention behind the wheel, motorcyclists are especially vulnerable. With no frame, seatbelt, or airbag to protect them, even a momentary lapse in another driver’s focus can result in devastating injuries.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help protect your rights and hold the responsible party accountable.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the road. These distractions are typically grouped into three categories:
- Visual – Taking your eyes off the road
- Manual – Taking your hands off the wheel
- Cognitive – Taking your mind off driving
Common examples include texting, using GPS, eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to passengers. In Houston and across Texas, texting while driving is not only dangerous — it’s illegal under state law.
Why Motorcyclists Are at Higher Risk
Motorcycles are harder to see than larger vehicles, especially in traffic or poor weather conditions. A driver who glances at their phone for just two seconds may completely overlook a nearby motorcycle when changing lanes or turning at an intersection.
Here’s how distracted driving commonly causes crashes with motorcyclists:
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Sudden lane changes without checking mirrors or blind spots
- Rear-end collisions due to delayed braking
- Side-swipes from drifting out of a lane
- Cut-offs when turning or merging
Because motorcycles offer so little protection, these seemingly minor impacts can cause catastrophic injuries.
Common Injuries in Distracted Driving Motorcycle Accidents
Injuries in these types of crashes are often severe. Common outcomes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (especially when helmets aren’t worn)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and skin abrasions
- Spinal cord damage or paralysis
- Internal bleeding and organ trauma
Many riders face long-term recovery, expensive medical treatment, or permanent disability.
Texas Law on Distracted Driving
Texas prohibits texting while driving statewide. However, proving distracted driving after a crash isn’t always straightforward. Cell phone records, dash cams, eyewitnesses, and accident reconstructions may all play a role in building a case.
If you’re the injured rider, your attorney must show that the other driver failed to operate their vehicle safely — and that distraction was a contributing factor. In some cases, a third party (such as an employer) may also be held liable if the driver was on the clock at the time of the crash.
What to Do If You’re Hit by a Distracted Driver
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Houston or anywhere in Texas and suspect the other driver was distracted, take the following steps:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
- Do not admit fault or engage with the other driver beyond exchanging basic info.
- Take photos or videos of the scene, damage, and road conditions.
- Ask witnesses for their contact information.
- Contact a Houston motorcycle injury attorney to begin an investigation.
The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving critical evidence and pursuing fair compensation.
Call a Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we represent injured victims throughout Texas. We’ll investigate your case, handle the insurance companies, and fight to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
📞 Call 713-804-9306 today for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer. We don’t charge fees unless we win.