In Texas, as a motorcycle owner and operator, you’re legally obligated to ensure your vehicle is safe to operate. Failure to maintain your motorcycle properly could lead to an accident, for which the court could hold you liable.
Here are four ways that might occur.
Brake failure
Neglecting the somewhat soft feel of your brakes is not a good idea while driving. Brake failures happen when, possibly due to their condition, they don’t perform as expected. This issue could compel the court to hold you liable if you were aware of the brake issue but chose not to address it.
Tire issues
If you keep riding knowing you have worn tires, reconsidering might be wise. Worn tires can fail and cause a crash. If you ignored your tire’s condition and had an accident, the court could hold you responsible under Texas law.
Malfunctioning lights
If your taillight is flickering and you delay fixing it, think again. If it stops working and a car can’t see and hits you, this could be a liability. If it’s discovered that you didn’t fix the light, others could view you as negligent in fulfilling your duty as a responsible driver.
Mechanical failures
If unusual engine sounds have been noticeable and you’ve decided not to investigate, you might want to rethink your decision. A motorcycle that unexpectedly stalls is dangerous and could lead to a collision. If you ignored engine noise and subsequently got into a crash, the state of Texas could potentially hold you liable for the accident, provided they determined that you failed to maintain your motorcycle properly.
Poor upkeep of your motorcycle can potentially hold you liable for causing an accident. Disregarding regular repairs and maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failure, tire blowouts or steering issues, which can result in accidents. If it is determined that the accident was caused by a mechanical failure due to your poor upkeep, you may be held responsible for any resulting injuries or damages.
Ultimately, regular motorcycle maintenance is a best practice to prevent serious accidents, safeguard your safety and avoid potential liabilities.