Texas Is Seeing An Increase In Motorcycle Fatalities
When you spot a motorcycle on the street, remember that it’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a means of transport for someone’s loved one, whether that’s a best friend, a child, a parent, or a partner. In Texas alone, almost 600 motorcyclists lost their lives in accidents last year, and over 2,400 riders suffered serious injuries.
Motorcycles are often less visible and more compact, making it crucial to take a moment to look for them before making any moves on the road. In 2023, the number of motorcyclists who lost their lives rose by 7% compared to the previous year, and fatal accidents at intersections surged by 21%. To combat this alarming trend, drivers should make it a habit to check for motorcycles more thoroughly, as doing so could save a life.
Focus on Motorcycle Awareness
Watch out for riders. It’s important to constantly be aware of any motorcycles that might be around you. By doing this, you’ll train your eyes and brain to spot them more easily while you’re driving.
Practice safe lane changes. It’s important to signal your intentions and look for any vehicles in your blind spots before you switch lanes.
Communicate your turning intentions. When you’re driving, it’s important to be cautious about turning in front of a motorcycle that’s coming towards you. Motorcycles can be tricky to gauge in terms of how fast they’re going and how far away they are, so it’s best to let them go by before you make your turn. Also, remember to use your turn signal to let the motorcyclist know what you’re planning to do.
Take extra caution at intersections. Over one-third of all motorcycle deaths occur at intersections on the road. Slow down when you approach an intersection and be aware of oncoming traffic in all directions.
Keep your distance. It’s important to maintain a safe distance when you’re driving near motorcycles. Unlike cars, motorcyclists can slow down by shifting gears without using their brakes, so their brake lights might not always signal a slowdown. When you’re on the road, remember to treat motorcycles like any other vehicle by allowing them a complete lane, whether you’re driving alongside them or passing by.
Don’t speed and be alert. It’s important to follow the speed limits and adjust your driving based on the road conditions. Always keep your focus on the road while driving. Just a brief distraction can lead to serious accidents.
To raise awareness about the challenges motorcyclists encounter and how easily drivers can overlook them, TxDOT is bringing its Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles campaign to various locations. This traveling exhibit will include a virtual reality experience that allows participants to see things from a driver’s viewpoint, highlighting the difficulties in noticing motorcyclists during risky traffic scenarios. It will also showcase the close calls and perilous situations that motorcyclists often face on the road.
Motorcycle Safety and Training
Sometimes, a motorcycle accident can be attributed to the rider’s actions. This usually happens because the rider may not be paying enough attention or hasn’t received proper training.
To ride a motorcycle, it’s necessary to obtain a Class M license. This involves enrolling in a motorcycle safety course that has been sanctioned by the relevant authorities. After finishing the course, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion. Make sure to take this certificate with you when you visit the driver’s license office. On the other hand, if you already possess a valid motorcycle license from a different state, you can skip the safety course altogether.
To get a Class M license, you need to be at least 15 years old, and initially, you can only ride motorcycles that have engines of 250 cubic centimeters or smaller. But when you reach 16, that limit goes away, and you can ride any motorcycle you choose.
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.
