Dirt bike accidents are a common source of injuries in Dallas. In some cases, dirt bike riders suffer harmful accidents because of negligent behavior exhibited by other parties. For example, harmful crashes may occur because of careless behavior exhibited by trail and park owners, rental companies, and other drivers.
Furthermore, some dirt bike accidents happen when drivers of standard cars are struck by negligent riders. These crashes regularly occur on private properties and at locations where trails cross public roads. Thankfully, victims of dirt bike accidents may be able to pursue compensation from at-fault parties.
If you were hurt as the result of a dirt bike accident in Dallas, seek support from our experienced dirt bike accident and injury attorneys at The Queenan Law Firm by dialing (817) 476-1797.
Time Limit to File a Dirt Bike Accident Lawsuit in Dallas
The time window for filing a dirt bike accident lawsuit in Texas is governed by Tex. Civ. Prac & Rem. Code § 16.003. Generally, you will have two years from the date of your crash to file your case against another party.
You should begin working on your potential lawsuit as soon as possible after your accident. If you wait too long to bring your claim to court, then you may miss your opportunity to recover financial compensation. Furthermore, the evidence needed to support your case may become difficult to preserve or gather as time goes by. The more quickly you connect with our dirt bike accident and injury attorneys, the more efficiently we can collect the information we need to win your case.
Are Dirt Bikes Street Legal in Dallas?
Yes, you may ride dirt bikes on the street in Texas. However, in order for these vehicles to be considered street legal, certain requirements must be met.
First, a street legal dirt bike has to be equipped with a headlight and a headlight indicator light. Also, they must have battery-powered tail lights and brake lights that are approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT-approved equipment will be marked with “DOT” stamps or stamps from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
Furthermore, before taking their dirt bikes on public roads, riders must register their bikes with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and obtain an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) permit.
Operating an off-road vehicle on public roads where it is not permitted can be considered a form of negligence. Accordingly, a rider who operates a non-street-legal dirt bike on a public road may bear a significant portion of the liability for any accidents they are involved in.
Common Types of Injuries Caused by Dirt Bike Accidents in Dallas
Dirt bike accidents have a high propensity to cause serious injuries. Thankfully, if you suffered any of the following as a result of your crash, then you may be entitled to substantial compensation:
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious injuries related to dirt bike accidents. This type of injury can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting motor function and sensation below the site of injury. Treatment for spinal cord damage may involve surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and assistive devices may also be necessary to improve mobility and manage daily living activities for victims.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Dirt bike accidents also regularly cause traumatic brain injuries. These occur when a powerful force causes the brain to impact the skull, resulting in bruising, bleeding, or tearing of brain tissues.
TBIs can vary in severity. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and cognitive impairment. Treatment for TBIs depends on their severity but may involve rest, medication, and rehabilitation therapy. In especially severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reduce swelling or repair damaged brain tissue.
Fractured Bones
Many dirt bike accident victims sustain fractured bones. Victims often experience fractured arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones. These fractures may require casting or even surgery to realign the damaged bones. Further, physical therapy and rehabilitation can be essential for victims to regain strength and mobility.
Soft Tissue Damage
Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments. A sudden jolt or impact during a dirt bike accident can strain, sprain, or tear these tissues. These types of injuries regularly involve pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatments for soft tissue damage can include rest, pain management, and physical therapy. In serious cases, surgical operations may be necessary to repair such damage.
Burns
Burn injuries may occur if a victim comes into contact with hot engine parts, exhaust pipes, or fuel during their dirt bike accident. Burns can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns.
Treatment for burns involves wound care, pain management, infection prevention, and ongoing follow-up to monitor healing progress. However, those with third-degree burns may require skin grafting or reconstructive surgery.
Internal Injuries
Finally, internal injuries are another common type of harm caused by dirt bike crashes. These injuries can involve internal bleeding, organ damage, or other life-threatening conditions. However, they may not be noticeable until days after a collision. If you suspect that you may have incurred an internal injury as a result of your crash, then you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What if You Share Fault for Your Dirt Bike Accident in Dallas?
If you share blame for your dirt bike accident, then you may still pursue payment for your injuries. However, the amount of monetary damages you are awarded can be limited.
Texas courts abide by the rules of “modified comparative fault” when apportioning damages in dirt bike accident cases. This means that damages are determined based on each party’s percentage of fault. For instance, if you are 15% to blame for your crash while the defendant in your case is 85% at fault, then they will have to pay for 85% of the damages you sustained while you are left to account for the remaining 15%.
However, if you are over 50% to blame for your crash, then you will be unable to recover damages from another party.
Call Our Dirt Bike Accident and Injury Attorneys for Help with Your Case in Dallas
Get assistance from our experienced dirt bike accident and injury lawyers by calling The Queenan Law Firm at (817) 476-1797.