Riding a motorcycle is truly one of life’s special pleasures. But, the roads around Houston are crazy, which means riding is extremely dangerous. And, because of the lack of protection available to motorcyclists, motorcycle accidents are often fatal or have serious medical consequences. This, unfortunately, was the case in a recent west Houston motorcycle accident.
The fatal accident
According to the Houston Police Department, the fatal accident occurred during the early morning hours of Saturday near the Westheimer exit on Highway 6. A driver, who was reportedly driving under the influence, tried to make a U-turn on Highway 6 directly in the path of a motorcyclist.
The aftermath
As a result of the U-turn, the rider collided with the vehicle. He was pronounced died at the scene by first responders. The driver of the vehicle was not injured in the crash, and drunk driving charges are pending, though not officially charged yet. HPD did not indicate whether the driver was arrested, only that he was suspected of drunk driving.
Options after a fatal motorcycle accident
For those in Houston, Texas, that have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, there are options. First, one’s options are not dictated by whether the negligent driver is charged with a crime. While getting justice through the criminal justice system can happen, often it does not. This is why accident victims can hold negligent drivers accountable through a personal injury lawsuit. Even if the rider dies, their family can bring a wrongful death lawsuit against that driver as well. And, if alcohol or drugs were involved, victims and their families may be entitled to additional punitive damages from the negligent driver.