Preventing Fatal Motorcycle Accidents in Texas
Texas doesn’t see much cold weather, so the state naturally attracts motorcycle enthusiasts. There are nearly 420,000 registered motorcycles in Texas. But with that many bikes and millions of cars, motorcycle fatalities average one a day on state roads, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported.
In 2019, 412 riders died, and 1,812 others were seriously injured in motorcycle crashes, TxDOT statistics showed. Of those fatalities, half occurred after another vehicle was involved.
Prevention so accidents don’t occur is what everyone wants, but sometimes no matter how careful a driver is being, a crash happens. If you’re involved in a motorcycle crash, the personal injury attorneys at Begum Law Group Injury Lawyers can help. The Texas Law Giant has handled many motorcycles cases and have helped secure compensation for those injured or the family of someone tragically killed.
Share the Road
Because fatal crashes often occur when other vehicles don’t see motorcycles, the state launched a safety campaign called “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles.” Everyone needs to stay alert to prevent crashes that can leave parties involved grieving for the loss of life or dealing with serious injuries.
Other issues leading to serious accidents include distracted driving and congested roadways. State officials believe many of the fatal motorcycle accidents that occur are preventable and the Share the Road program is focused on educating the driving public on safety tips.
Follow these safety tips when sharing the road with motorcycles:
- Don’t drive distracted and stay alert for motorcycles, especially at intersections.
- Remember that due to their size, motorcycles may appear further away so take care not to misjudge distance and turn in front of one.
- Be diligent about turn signals! Use them every time, including changing lanes.
- Back off. Tailgating a motorcycle is dangerous for everyone. And let motorcycles have a full lane, too.
- Don’t speed! Driving fast gives you less time to react.
Motorcycle Drivers Do Your Part
Other drivers need to be alert for motorcycles, but bike riders need to do their part to stay safe. By being properly trained, licensed, and outfitted, the chance of serious injury can be lessened.
Motorcycle drivers can take a variety of safety and certification courses administered by the Motorcycle Safety Unit of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). A basic course is required to receive a Class M motorcycle driver’s license.
To stay safe while riding motorcycles, remember to:
- Wear a helmet and other protective gear. Texas state law requires riders under 21 to wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle. Those over 21 can legally ride without one if they completed a safety course and are insured, but it is not recommended.
- Ride defensively by remaining alert and looking ahead for possible safety issues. Turn on your headlights.
- Don’t speed and never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Watch for road hazards like oil and debris.
- Inspect the bike before every ride to make sure there are no maintenance issues.
- Obey all traffic laws.
- Assume other vehicles CAN’T SEE YOU.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the open road and lessen the risk your bike ride will end badly.
Keep Yourself Safe, But Call if You Need Us
Motorcycle riding is a fun activity that hundreds of thousands of Texans enjoy. But with it comes inherent risks. Making safety a top priority while riding should be your objective every time you get on the bike. Even with the state working hard to educate other drivers to “share the road” sometimes you can’t avoid the bad behavior of other drivers. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, or a loved one was killed, the Texas personal injury lawyers of Begum Law Group Injury Lawyers can help get you the compensation you deserve.
Call The Texas Law Giant at (866) 523-4167 for a free consultation.
