Morris County, TX — August 23, 2024, Amanda Riley was injured in a motorcycle accident at approximately 10:00 p.m. along Farm to Market 250.

According to authorities, 39-year-old Amanda Riley was traveling on a northeast bound Harley-Davidson motorcycle along F.M. 250 in the vicinity northeast of the F.M. 3421 intersection when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the Harley-Davidson failed to safely navigate a left-hand curve in the roadway. It reportedly veered right, leaving the roadway, sliding on its right side, and crashing into a culvert. Riley suffered serious injuries due to the accident, according to reports. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a motorcyclist is seriously injured after failing to navigate a curve, particularly at night, people often assume it was just a case of going too fast or misjudging the turn. But in my experience, especially in rural areas like Farm to Market 250, these crashes often stem from a combination of factors that go unaddressed unless someone takes the time to ask the right questions. To understand what happened here and whether it could have been prevented, there are three critical questions that should be asked.

First, did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? At 10:00 p.m., visibility is limited, and rural roads often lack adequate lighting or consistent signage. Investigators should examine whether the curve was clearly marked in advance, whether the pavement showed signs of wear or loose gravel, and whether the geometry of the road gave the rider enough time and space to react. If the investigation didn’t include a detailed look at these road conditions, a more comprehensive, independent review may be necessary.

Second, has anyone considered whether a mechanical issue played a role? A motorcycle veering off the road in a curve could result from a failure in the steering, braking, or suspension systems—or even from a tire blowout or low tire pressure. These kinds of issues rarely leave obvious signs at the scene and require a forensic inspection of the motorcycle. That kind of review can only be done if the bike is preserved after the crash and not immediately discarded or repaired.

Lastly, has all potential electronic data been collected? While most motorcycles don't have traditional black boxes, there are other ways to gather useful information. Some newer models or aftermarket systems may record GPS data or ride telemetry. Additionally, nearby surveillance cameras, helmet cameras, or even phone data might offer insights into the bike’s speed, position, or behavior leading up to the crash. As with any digital evidence, time is of the essence to ensure it’s preserved.

When a crash results in serious injuries and the cause remains unclear, it’s important not to settle for assumptions. Asking these questions is the least that can be done to ensure that those affected by this crash get the clarity and closure they deserve.