Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes are often caused by the negligence or recklessness of other drivers. Many motorists fail to notice motorcycles or underestimate their speed and distance. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Oklahoma City include:

• Failure to yield at intersections
• Unsafe lane changes and blind-spot collisions
• Distracted driving, including texting or phone use
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Left-turn accidents involving oncoming motorcycles
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Road hazards, such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement

Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible, even a momentary lapse in attention by a driver can have catastrophic consequences for a rider.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents frequently result in severe and life-altering injuries. Even riders wearing helmets and protective gear can suffer significant harm. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and complex fractures
• Road rash and severe skin abrasions
• Internal organ damage
• Neck and back injuries
• Amputations or crush injuries

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer can help ensure all current and future medical needs are considered when seeking compensation.

Oklahoma Motorcycle Laws

Understanding Oklahoma motorcycle laws is essential when pursuing a personal injury claim. Some key motorcycle regulations in Oklahoma include:

• Helmet laws: Oklahoma requires helmets for riders and passengers under the age of 18. Riders 18 and older are not required to wear helmets if they meet insurance and licensing requirements.
• Eye protection: Riders without windshields must wear eye protection.
• Licensing requirements: Motorcyclists must have a valid motorcycle endorsement or license.
• Lane splitting: Lane splitting is illegal in Oklahoma.

While compliance with these laws is important, failing to wear a helmet does not automatically bar an injured rider from recovering compensation. Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which may reduce damages if a rider is partially at fault but does not necessarily eliminate recovery.

Where Do Motorcycle Crashes Often Occur in OKC?

Motorcycle accidents in Oklahoma City frequently occur in areas with high traffic volume or complex traffic patterns. Common crash locations include:

• Busy intersections along I-35, I-40, and I-44
• Downtown Oklahoma City streets
• NW Expressway and major arterial roads
• Construction zones and roadwork areas
• Areas with poor lighting or visibility

Intersection accidents are especially dangerous for motorcyclists, as drivers may fail to see riders when turning or merging.

Liability for Motorcycle Accidents

Determining liability in a motorcycle accident requires a careful investigation of the facts. Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may be held responsible, including:

• Negligent drivers
• Employers of at-fault drivers
• Motorcycle or parts manufacturers
• Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions

At Martin, Jean, Jackson, Martin & Peach, our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident attorneys work to gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction analysis to build a strong claim on your behalf.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages. Depending on the severity of the injuries and circumstances of the crash, compensation may include:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage to the motorcycle
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Oklahoma?

In most cases, Oklahoma law allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Oklahoma follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may still recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault, though your damages may be reduced.

Do insurance companies treat motorcycle claims differently?

Unfortunately, yes. Motorcyclists often face unfair bias. Insurance companies may attempt to portray riders as reckless, even when the driver was clearly at fault.

Should I speak to the insurance adjuster?

It is generally best to consult an Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer before providing statements or accepting a settlement offer.

Get Skilled Representation for Your Motorcycle Accident Case Today

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident or tragically lost a loved one due to the careless, reckless, or wrongful actions of another motorist, pedestrian, bicyclist, or any other party, contact our motorcycle accident lawyers in Oklahoma City as soon as possible to learn how we can help. With over a century of combined experience and an impressive track record of winning results, our award-winning attorneys are fully prepared to help you navigate the legal process. We offer contingency fees, so there are absolutely no costs to you unless/until we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.  

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Oklahoma City, contact us online or call our office at (405) 221-9699 to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation.