Expert Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Bethany, Oklahoma

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Bethany

Bethany, a vibrant community within Oklahoma County, witnesses its share of vehicular incidents. While specific motorcycle accident statistics for Bethany are not readily available, statewide data provides insight into the prevalence and severity of these incidents. In 2020, Oklahoma reported 1,231 motorcycle accidents, with 661 resulting in injuries and 62 in fatalities. 

These figures underscore the inherent risks motorcyclists face and highlight the importance of having experienced legal representation in the event of an accident.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents – Legal Help for Riders in Bethany, Oklahoma

Motorcycles offer a thrilling sense of freedom on the road, but they also come with increased risks. Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles lack protective barriers, leaving riders more exposed to severe injuries in the event of an accident.

At Hawkins Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and are committed to helping accident victims secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Bethany, Oklahoma, our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents & Their Causes

Motorcycle accidents happen in many ways, each presenting distinct challenges in proving fault, gathering evidence, and pursuing compensation. Below are the most common types of motorcycle accidents, their causes, and how our legal team can help victims recover damages.

1. Left-Turn Collisions – A Major Risk at Intersections

Left-turn collisions are among the most frequent and dangerous types of motorcycle crashes. These accidents typically occur when a car or truck attempts to turn left at an intersection or into a driveway, failing to see an oncoming motorcyclist.

Why Left-Turn Accidents Happen:

✅ Driver Fails to See the Motorcyclist – Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them less noticeable to distracted or inattentive drivers.
✅ Misjudging Speed – Drivers often miscalculate how fast a motorcycle is approaching.
✅ Failure to Yield Right-of-Way – Many drivers turn in front of motorcycles despite traffic laws requiring them to yield.

Common Injuries in Left-Turn Crashes:

🚨 Broken Bones & Fractures – Riders are often thrown from their bikes upon impact.
🚨 Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or brain trauma.
🚨 Internal Organ Damage – The force of impact can cause internal bleeding and organ damage.

How We Help: Our legal team gathers traffic camera footage, eyewitness statements, and accident reports to prove that the driver failed to yield and was at fault.

2. Head-On Collisions – One of the Deadliest Motorcycle Accidents

Head-on motorcycle collisions are among the most severe and fatal accidents. These crashes occur when a vehicle crosses into the opposite lane or a motorcyclist is struck head-on by an oncoming car.

Common Causes of Head-On Collisions:

✅ Distracted Driving – A driver looking at their phone or adjusting the radio may drift into oncoming traffic.
✅ Drunk or Impaired Driving – Intoxicated drivers lose control of their vehicle, crossing into opposing lanes.
✅ Speeding & Reckless Driving – Vehicles attempting to pass on two-lane roads often cause deadly head-on crashes.

Injuries from Head-On Collisions:

🚨 Fatalities – These accidents have the highest fatality rate for motorcyclists.
🚨 Spinal Cord Damage & Paralysis – High-impact crashes can cause permanent disabilities.
🚨 Multiple Fractures & Internal Bleeding – The force of impact can cause severe trauma throughout the body.

How We Help: We reconstruct the accident scene, collect forensic evidence, and pursue wrongful death claims if a loved one was tragically killed in a head-on collision.

3. Lane-Switching Accidents – When Motorcycles Are in a Driver’s Blind Spot

Lane-switching accidents occur when a car or truck changes lanes without noticing a motorcycle nearby. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, they can easily be hidden in a driver’s blind spot.

Common Causes of Lane-Switching Accidents:

✅ Failure to Check Blind Spots – Many drivers forget to look for motorcycles before merging.
✅ Distracted Driving – Texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems can prevent drivers from noticing motorcycles in adjacent lanes.
✅ Aggressive Merging – Some drivers change lanes without signaling or checking traffic properly.

Potential Injuries:

🚨 Severe Road Rash & Skin Abrasions – A motorcyclist forced off the road can suffer extensive abrasions and burns.
🚨 Broken Collarbone & Shoulder Injuries – Falling onto the pavement can cause fractures and dislocations.
🚨 Spinal Cord Injuries – Riders can be thrown from their bike, leading to permanent disabilities.

How We Help: We collect dashcam footage, accident reports, and traffic data to prove the other driver was negligent in failing to check for motorcycles.

4. Rear-End Collisions – When Drivers Follow Too Closely

Unlike cars, motorcycles stop much faster, and when a driver is tailgating, they may not have enough time to stop safely, leading to a rear-end collision.

Why Rear-End Motorcycle Crashes Happen:

✅ Distracted Driving – Drivers looking at their phones or GPS may fail to stop in time.
✅ Speeding & Tailgating – Following too closely gives drivers little reaction time.
✅ Sudden Stops – If a motorcyclist slows for a traffic light, a negligent driver may slam into them.

Serious Injuries from Rear-End Crashes:

🚨 Spinal Cord Damage & Paralysis – Rear-end crashes often result in severe spinal trauma.
🚨 Whiplash & Neck Injuries – Even a minor impact can cause lasting neck and back pain.
🚨 Brain Injuries – Riders thrown forward may suffer severe head trauma.

How We Help: We investigate driver phone records, traffic camera footage, and witness statements to prove negligence in rear-end crashes.

5. Cornering Accidents – Losing Control on Curves

Cornering accidents occur when a motorcyclist misjudges a turn or encounters poor road conditions, leading to a loss of control.

Common Causes of Cornering Accidents:

✅ Excessive Speed – Riders entering a turn too fast may be unable to correct in time.
✅ Gravel, Oil, or Slippery Roads – Loose debris or rain can cause skidding.
✅ Lack of Experience – New riders may struggle to lean properly into turns.

Injuries from Cornering Crashes:

🚨 Broken Wrists & Arms – Riders bracing for impact can suffer fractures.
🚨 Severe Leg & Knee Injuries – The force of hitting the pavement can crush bones and ligaments.

How We Help: We investigate road conditions, speed reports, and visibility factors to determine liability.

6. High-Speed Motorcycle Accidents – The Most Dangerous Crashes

High-speed motorcycle accidents often result in fatal injuries due to the extreme force of impact.

Why High-Speed Crashes Happen:

✅ Reckless or Aggressive Driving – Some riders weave through traffic at dangerous speeds.
✅ Excessive Speed on Highways – High speeds reduce reaction times.
✅ Street Racing or Stunts – Engaging in dangerous riding behaviors can be fatal.

Common Injuries:

🚨 Severe Burns & Road Rash
🚨 Multiple Fractures & Internal Organ Damage
🚨 Fatalities in High-Impact Collisions

How We Help: We gather accident reports, speed analysis, and witness statements to build a strong case.

Contact Hawkins Law Firm Today

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Bethany, Oklahoma, you deserve justice and compensation.

📞 Call us now for a FREE consultation.
💻 Visit our website to learn more about your legal rights.

At Hawkins Law Firm, we fight for motorcyclists – because your safety matters.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents – Understanding Risks & Protecting Riders in Bethany, Oklahoma

Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection that motorcycles provide compared to passenger vehicles. Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles lack seat belts, airbags, and enclosed frames, making riders more vulnerable in the event of a crash.

At Hawkins Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing injured motorcyclists in Bethany, Oklahoma. We understand that many motorcycle accidents are not the rider’s fault but rather caused by negligent drivers, hazardous road conditions, or reckless driving behaviors.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, our legal team is here to help you secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents & How They Happen

Motorcycle crashes happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Below are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents, along with their risks and how Hawkins Law Firm can help hold negligent parties accountable.

1. Driver Inattention – When Motorists Fail to See Motorcyclists

One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is driver inattention. Many motorists fail to see motorcycles, either because they are not paying attention, are distracted, or do not check their blind spots properly.

Why Driver Inattention Causes Motorcycle Crashes:

✅ Blind Spots – Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see compared to other vehicles, making them more likely to be hidden in a driver’s blind spot.
✅ Distracted Driving – Drivers who are texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS may fail to notice a nearby motorcycle.
✅ Failure to Yield Right-of-Way – Many motorcycle accidents occur when a driver turns left at an intersection without noticing an oncoming rider.
✅ Lane-Switching Errors – A driver changing lanes without signaling or checking for motorcycles can cause a sideswipe accident.

Injuries Resulting from Inattentive Driving Crashes:

🚨 Head Trauma & Concussions – When a rider is thrown from their bike, they may suffer serious brain injuries.
🚨 Broken Bones & Fractures – Side-impact crashes can lead to shattered ribs, arms, or legs.
🚨 Internal Organ Damage – High-impact collisions may cause internal bleeding or fatal injuries.

How We Help: Our attorneys collect traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimony, and police reports to prove that the driver was distracted or failed to see the motorcyclist.

2. Speeding – A Major Factor in High-Impact Motorcycle Crashes

Speeding is one of the deadliest causes of motorcycle accidents. Whether the motorcyclist or another driver is speeding, the risk of severe injury or death increases significantly due to reduced reaction times and increased stopping distances.

Dangers of Speeding for Motorcycles:

✅ Limited Control on Curves & Intersections – Speeding riders may misjudge a turn, leading to cornering accidents.
✅ Longer Stopping Distances – A motorcyclist traveling at high speeds may not have enough time to brake if traffic suddenly stops.
✅ Increased Impact Force in Collisions – High-speed crashes result in more severe injuries and higher fatality rates.

Injuries from Speed-Related Motorcycle Crashes:

🚨 Spinal Cord Damage & Paralysis – High-speed crashes often cause permanent disabilities.
🚨 Severe Road Rash & Burns – Sliding across the pavement at high speeds can cause skin and muscle damage.
🚨 Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even when wearing a helmet, head trauma can be life-threatening.

How We Help: Our legal team works with accident reconstruction experts to analyze speed data from black box recorders, skid marks, and impact damage.

3. Impaired Driving – When Alcohol or Drugs Lead to Tragic Accidents

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most reckless and preventable causes of motorcycle accidents. Both motorcyclists and other drivers put themselves and others at risk when they operate a vehicle while impaired.

Why Impaired Driving is Dangerous:

✅ Slower Reaction Times – Alcohol and drugs reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly to sudden road changes.
✅ Poor Judgment & Decision-Making – Impaired drivers may take reckless risks, such as running red lights or speeding.
✅ Lane Drifting & Swerving – Intoxicated drivers often struggle to maintain proper lane positioning.

Injuries from Drunk Driving Motorcycle Accidents:

🚨 Multiple Broken Bones & Fractures – High-speed DUI crashes can cause devastating injuries.
🚨 Fatalities – Many drunk driving motorcycle crashes end in wrongful death claims.

How We Help: We obtain police reports, toxicology test results, and eyewitness statements to prove that the driver was impaired at the time of the crash.

4. Road Hazards – Dangerous Conditions for Motorcycles

Motorcycles are more vulnerable to road hazards than cars or trucks due to their smaller tires and lower stability. Even minor potholes, road debris, or uneven pavement can cause a rider to lose control.

Common Road Hazards for Motorcyclists:

✅ Potholes & Cracked Pavement – These can cause a rider to be thrown from their bike.
✅ Loose Gravel & Debris – Small objects in the road can cause motorcycles to slide or tip over.
✅ Oil Spills or Wet Surfaces – Slick roads reduce traction, making sudden braking dangerous.
✅ Poorly Marked Construction Zones – Road construction areas without proper warnings can be deadly.

Injuries from Road Hazard Accidents:

🚨 Severe Leg & Knee Injuries – Riders who fall may suffer crushed limbs or torn ligaments.
🚨 Road Rash & Skin Abrasions – Skidding across pavement can cause painful burns and scars.

How We Help: If a government agency or construction company was responsible for failing to maintain safe road conditions, we pursue a claim against them for negligence.

5. Weather Conditions – The Impact of Rain, Fog & High Winds

Unlike passenger vehicles, motorcycles have less stability and traction, making them more susceptible to weather-related crashes.

Weather Conditions That Increase Accident Risk:

✅ Rain & Wet Roads – Water on pavement reduces traction, leading to more slip-and-slide crashes.
✅ Fog & Reduced Visibility – Riders and drivers may have difficulty seeing each other.
✅ High Winds – Strong gusts can cause motorcycles to veer off the road or into traffic.

How to Minimize Weather-Related Risks:

🚨 Use Proper Riding Gear – Helmets with visors and waterproof clothing help riders maintain visibility and control.
🚨 Avoid Sudden Movements – Gradual braking and lane changes help prevent skidding.
🚨 Slow Down in Bad Weather – Reducing speed allows for better reaction times.

How We Help: If another driver failed to adjust for weather conditions and caused a crash, we hold them legally responsible for the accident.

Why Choose Hawkins Law Firm for Your Motorcycle Accident Case?

At Hawkins Law Firm, we know that motorcyclists often face bias from insurance companies that try to shift the blame onto the rider. Our attorneys are committed to fighting for injured motorcyclists in Bethany, Oklahoma and securing the maximum compensation possible.

✅ We Gather Evidence to Prove Fault
✅ We Fight Against Insurance Companies Trying to Undervalue Your Claim
✅ No Fees Unless We Win – You Pay Nothing Until We Secure Compensation

Contact Hawkins Law Firm Today

📞 Call us today for a FREE consultation.
💻 Visit our website to learn more about your legal options.

At Hawkins Law Firm, we fight for motorcyclists – because your safety and recovery matter.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Motorcycle accidents often involve complex legal and insurance issues. Having experienced legal representation is crucial to navigate these challenges effectively. An attorney can:

• Investigate the Accident: Collect and analyze evidence to determine liability.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
• Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Verify adherence to traffic laws and safety regulations.
• Litigate if Necessary: Represent your interests in court to secure just outcomes.

Why Choose Hawkins Law Firm?

At Hawkins Law Firm, we bring over 20 years of experience in personal injury law, with a focus on motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle-related incidents. Our commitment to the Bethany community is unwavering, and we offer:

• Personalized Attention: We understand that each case is unique and provide tailored legal strategies to meet your specific needs.
• Proven Track Record: Our history of successful case outcomes reflects our dedication to achieving justice for our clients.
• Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation through resolution, we guide you through every step of the legal process.
• Contingency Fee Basis: You pay no legal fees unless we secure compensation for you.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Bethany, Oklahoma, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact Hawkins Law Firm today for a free consultation. Let our experienced team advocate for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Remember, at Hawkins Law Firm, we care about you, not just your case. Trust us to be your steadfast ally in the pursuit of justice.