Share the Road – May Is Motorcycle Awareness Month

As the weather gets warmer here in Dallas, there will be a significant rise in the number of motorcyclists cruising along the roads. With over 340,000 registered motorcycles in Texas, the importance of understanding how to coexist with motorcyclists has become a critical concern.

To reduce the risk of accidents and save lives, drivers are strongly advised to exercise extra caution, especially when making lane changes, navigating intersections, and driving on highways. Being mindful and sharing the road responsibly with motorcyclists can make a huge impact on ensuring everyone’s safety.

Texas Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The Texas Department of Transportation organizes an annual campaign called “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” to emphasize the precautions that drivers should take to protect both motorcyclists and themselves. Last year, Texas witnessed a total of 7,481 motorcycle crashes, resulting in 1,856 motorcyclists sustaining serious injuries and 482 unfortunate fatalities. These statistics highlight the urgent need for increased vigilance and caution when sharing the road with motorcycles.

According to the Texas Transportation Institute (TTI), there is a concerning trend of fatal accidents involving motorcyclists and drivers. These accidents frequently happen when drivers underestimate the distance and speed of motorcycles, leading them to make left turns in front of oncoming motorcyclists. Shockingly, nearly one-third of motorcycle fatalities in Texas last year took place at intersections or were related to intersections. TTI also highlights driver inattention as a significant factor contributing to these unfortunate motorcycle crashes.

Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents in Texas are often influenced by the behavior of other drivers sharing the road. The actions of these drivers can have a major impact on the occurrence of such accidents. It is important to consider that there are several common factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents.

1. Neglecting to check blind spots is a major factor in motorcycle accidents, as drivers often fail to see motorcycles due to their smaller size. This oversight can lead to dangerous collisions when changing lanes or making turns.
2. Unsafe lane changes, especially when done suddenly or without signaling, can put motorcyclists at risk of accidents. Drivers who fail to properly check for nearby motorcycles before changing lanes increase the chances of unexpected collisions.
3. Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone, diverts a driver’s attention from the road and can result in delayed reactions to motorcycles. This distraction increases the likelihood of accidents occurring.
4. Failing to yield the right of way to motorcycles, whether at intersections or when merging, can lead to accidents. Ignoring traffic signals or signs can result in collisions with motorcyclists who have the right of way.
5. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to changing road conditions and increases the severity of accidents. Exceeding the speed limit can prevent drivers from stopping in time to avoid collisions with motorcycles, resulting in catastrophic outcomes.
6. Following motorcycles too closely reduces the driver’s reaction time and raises the risk of rear-end collisions. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial to prevent accidents, especially those involving motorcycles.
7. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a significant danger to motorcyclists and other road users. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times and are more likely to cause accidents.

Motorcycle Safety and Training

Sometimes a motorcycle rider is to blame for an accident. This is often due to the rider’s negligence or lack of adequate training.

To get a regular driver’s license, you have to meet certain requirements. But if you want to ride a motorcycle, you need to apply for a Class M license. To get this license, you have to take a motorcycle safety course that is approved by the authorities. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. Don’t forget to bring this certificate with you when you go to the driver’s license office. However, if you already have a valid motorcycle license from another state, you won’t have to take the safety course. Just keep in mind that the certificate is only valid for 24 months from the date it was issued.

To apply for a Class M license, you have to be at least 15 years old and you might only be allowed to ride a motorcycle with an engine size of 250 cubic centimeters or less. However, once you turn 16, this restriction can be lifted and you’ll have the freedom to ride any motorcycle you want.

IF YOU’VE BEEN INJURED IN A WRECK INVOLVING A MOTORCYCLE, CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF BRIAN BRUNSON TODAY.

Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.

We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.