Motorcycle Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Lawyers Who Mean Business
Fighting for Texas riders facing paralysis, nerve damage, and traumatic brain injuries
Motorcycle crashes in Houston often leave riders with life-changing injuries that affect both body and mind. A split second on I-45, the Katy Freeway, or Beltway 8 can result in devastating spinal cord or brain trauma that alters every part of a victim’s life. These aren’t short-term injuries. They demand long-term care, ongoing therapy, and significant financial support.
For more than 30 years, Smith & Hassler has fought for Texas motorcyclists whose lives were permanently changed by catastrophic crashes. Our Houston motorcycle accident lawyers know how to prove the full impact of paralysis, nerve damage, and brain injuries so clients recover compensation that truly reflects what they’ve lost and what they’ll need for the rest of their lives.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Houston area motorcycle accident, contact us now for a free consultation to protect your right to maximum compensation and learn more about your legal options.
FAQs about Texas Motorcycle Accident Spinal Cord and Brain Injuries
- Why do motorcycle accidents so often result in injuries to the spine and brain?
- What are common types of catastrophic motorcycle injuries?
- What are the symptoms of a spinal cord injury after a motorcycle crash?
- What is the difference between complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries?
- Can I have a spinal or brain injury even if I was wearing protective gear?
- Where do the most serious motorcycle crashes happen in Houston and nearby areas?
- Who can be held liable for a motorcycle accident that caused paralysis or brain damage?
- How do insurance companies push back in paralysis and TBI cases?
- What factors influence compensation for spinal cord and brain injury victims in Texas motorcycle accidents?
- How long does recovery take after a spinal cord or brain injury from a motorcycle accident?
- Does health insurance cover long term treatment or rehabilitation after a motorcycle crash?
- How much time do I have to file a spinal cord or brain injury claim in Texas?
- Can I recover compensation for home or vehicle modifications after paralysis?
- What evidence helps prove the full impact of a spinal cord or brain injury?
- Why should I choose Smith & Hassler for a spinal cord or brain injury motorcycle case?
Why do motorcycle accidents so often result in injuries to the spine and brain?
The human body is not built to withstand the forces involved in a motorcycle collision. When a rider is thrown or lands awkwardly, the spinal column can twist, fracture, or compress, damaging the nerves that carry signals between the brain and body. The result can be partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, or chronic pain that does not fully resolve.
Brain injuries often occur at the same time. A violent impact with pavement or another vehicle can cause concussions, brain bleeds, or diffuse axonal injuries that disrupt memory, balance, and emotion. Riders who appear alert immediately after a crash may later develop confusion, slurred speech, or vision problems, all signs of hidden TBI.
These complex conditions require coordinated care and extensive documentation. Our legal team works with neurologists, neurosurgeons, and rehabilitation experts to make sure every symptom and limitation is accurately reflected in your case.
What are common types of catastrophic motorcycle injuries?
Spinal cord and brain injuries vary in severity, but all can carry permanent consequences. The following are among the most serious injuries seen in Texas motorcycle accidents:
- Cervical or thoracic spinal cord damage: Injuries to the neck or upper back that may cause quadriplegia, loss of movement, and impaired breathing.
- Lumbar spinal cord injury: Damage to the lower spine that can result in paraplegia, limited mobility, or severe nerve pain.
- Incomplete spinal cord injury: Some movement or sensation remains below the injury site, but recovery depends on early treatment.
- Traumatic brain injury: Caused by violent shaking or direct impact to the skull; symptoms include confusion, headaches, and memory problems.
- Concussion from impact or dooring: Even a mild concussion can trigger dizziness, nausea, and concentration issues.
- Nerve damage and chronic pain: Compression or stretching of spinal nerves can lead to lasting weakness or loss of coordination.
Signs are not always immediate. Any loss of balance, numbness, or difficulty focusing after a motorcycle crash warrants emergency evaluation and a call to a lawyer who can preserve evidence before insurers step in.
What are the symptoms of a spinal cord injury after a motorcycle crash?
- Loss of sensation: Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or extremities.
- Loss of movement: Difficulty walking, gripping, or controlling limbs.
- Neck or back pain: Sharp, radiating pain that worsens with movement.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control: A sign of severe spinal nerve damage.
- Paralysis: Complete loss of movement or sensation below the injury site.
- Difficulty breathing: Common with high spinal cord injuries near the neck.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after a crash on I-45, Beltway 8, or the Katy Freeway should seek emergency care immediately. Early medical documentation also becomes key evidence when pursuing compensation for long term paralysis or disability.
What is the difference between complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries?
A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of movement and sensation below the injury site, while an incomplete injury leaves some motor or sensory function intact. Riders injured in high speed crashes on I-10 or Loop 610 often suffer cervical or thoracic injuries that determine whether paralysis is partial or total. The distinction affects prognosis and case value since lifelong care costs are higher for complete injuries. An experienced catastrophic injury lawyer will document this difference and fight for full, long term compensation.
Can I have a spinal or brain injury even if I was wearing protective gear?
Yes. Helmets, jackets, and reinforced suits reduce some impact, but they cannot fully protect against the violent forces in a motorcycle crash. Riders thrown from their bikes often suffer brain trauma or spinal compression from hard landings or secondary impacts. Even with top quality gear, internal structures cannot absorb the energy of a high speed collision. Seek medical care and legal help right away. Hidden injuries can worsen without prompt treatment and documentation.
Where do the most serious motorcycle crashes happen in Houston and nearby areas?
- I-45 North and Gulf Freeway: Frequent high speed collisions and lane change crashes.
- Katy Freeway (I-10): Congested interchanges and aggressive drivers increase risk.
- Westheimer Road and FM 1960: Dense traffic, pedestrians, and poor lighting.
- Loop 610 and Beltway 8: Heavy commuter traffic and merging lanes lead to sideswipes and rear ends.
- US 59 Southwest Freeway: Rapid speed changes and chain reaction collisions.
These corridors generate police reports, surveillance footage, and crash data that can help prove liability. A local attorney who knows Houston’s most dangerous stretches can secure evidence before it disappears.
Who can be held liable for a motorcycle accident that caused paralysis or brain damage?
- Negligent drivers: Speeding, distraction, failure to yield, or intoxication.
- Commercial carriers: Trucking or delivery companies responsible for employees.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers: Defective brakes, tires, or helmets that worsened injuries.
- Government entities: Dangerous road conditions or missing signage.
- Bars or establishments: Overserving an intoxicated driver that contributed to a collision.
Determining fault in a catastrophic injury case requires thorough investigation, accident reconstruction, and legal strategy to hold every party accountable.
How do insurance companies push back in paralysis and TBI cases?
These claims carry high stakes, so insurers fight aggressively. Common tactics include questioning the severity of paralysis, disputing the need for lifelong care, or shifting blame to the rider.
Smith & Hassler prepares every case for trial. We use medical imaging, expert testimony, and life care plans to project future costs for surgeries, rehabilitation, home modifications, and mobility equipment. When insurers minimize or delay payment, our attorneys push back until clients get the compensation they need.
What factors influence compensation for spinal cord and brain injury victims in Texas motorcycle accidents?
- Severity of injury: Complete paralysis or severe TBI increases settlement value.
- Extent of medical care: Surgeries, inpatient rehab, and ongoing therapy add measurable costs.
- Future losses: Diminished earning capacity and lifelong care needs.
- Insurance coverage and liability: Multiple at fault parties or commercial policies can expand recovery.
- Legal representation: Trial ready counsel with proven results often secures stronger outcomes.
Recoverable damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, long term disability, home and vehicle modifications, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium.
How long does recovery take after a spinal cord or brain injury from a motorcycle accident?
Recovery can take months or years, depending on severity and location of injury. Many victims require extensive physical, occupational, and neurological therapy at facilities such as TIRR Memorial Hermann or Baylor St. Luke’s. Some regain partial mobility, while others live with permanent paralysis or cognitive impairment. Because timelines are unpredictable, your claim must account for future care, adaptive equipment, and lifelong support.
Does health insurance cover long term treatment or rehabilitation after a motorcycle crash?
Health insurance generally covers hospital care and initial treatment, while long term rehabilitation, specialized equipment, and in home care may face limits or denials. Providers may bill both health and motorcycle insurers, then seek reimbursement from your settlement through subrogation. A skilled lawyer can negotiate bills, challenge excessive charges, and protect your net recovery.
How much time do I have to file a spinal cord or brain injury claim in Texas?
Texas law gives you two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. That window can close quickly while you focus on treatment. Evidence like traffic camera footage or witness statements can vanish if not preserved early. Retaining counsel promptly helps meet deadlines and protect your right to maximum compensation.
Can I recover compensation for home or vehicle modifications after paralysis?
Yes. Necessary modifications such as wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, widened doorways, and adapted vehicles are recoverable. These costs often reach tens of thousands of dollars and are essential for independence. Insurers may undervalue or exclude them. A lawyer can prove they are medical and functional necessities and secure full reimbursement.
What evidence helps prove the full impact of a spinal cord or brain injury?
- Medical imaging and records: MRI, CT, and X ray results documenting spine or brain damage.
- Accident reports: Police documentation outlining fault and conditions.
- Expert testimony: Neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and life care planners.
- Employment and financial records: Proof of lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
- Personal documentation: Journals, photos, and family statements showing daily challenges and emotional effects.
Coordinated evidence demonstrates the true cost of a catastrophic injury and counters insurer efforts to undervalue the claim.
Why should I choose Smith & Hassler for a spinal cord or brain injury motorcycle case?
For more than 30 years, Smith & Hassler has fought for Houston motorcyclists whose lives were changed by catastrophic injuries. Our attorneys have recovered over $1 billion for clients across Texas. We partner with top medical experts and life care planners to calculate the full lifelong cost of spinal and brain trauma and we are prepared to try cases when insurers refuse to pay fairly. With free consultations and no fee unless we win, you can focus on healing while we fight for your recovery.
Your road to recovery starts here
Smith & Hassler has recovered more than $1 billion for injured Texans, including riders living with paralysis and brain trauma. Our attorneys know the stakes and fight to make sure every client receives full justice, not partial compensation.
If a motorcycle crash caused spinal cord or brain injuries to you or someone you love, contact us for a free consultation today. You pay no fee unless we win your case. Our Houston legal team is passionate, professional, and prepared to fight for your recovery.