May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time dedicated to promoting the safety and well-being of motorcyclists. Unfortunately, many vehicle drivers don't view motorcycle riders as equals on the road, often neglecting to treat them with the same caution and respect as other vehicles.
This neglect can lead to dangerous situations, serious motorcycle accidents, and severe injuries. To combat the problem, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reminds drivers to look twice and remain vigilant for motorcycles.
Texas motorcyclists are at risk
Motorcyclists face heightened risks of fatal accidents compared to those in passenger vehicles due to several factors. Their smaller size makes them less visible to other drivers, increasing the likelihood of being overlooked or unnoticed on the road. Additionally, motorcycles lack the protective features of cars, leaving riders more vulnerable to severe injuries in the event of a collision.
Recent statistics illustrate this vulnerability. Just last year, 600 motorcyclists were killed in motorcycle accidents, and more than 2,400 were severely injured, according to crash data from TxDOT. Both the number of motorcyclists killed and the total fatal accidents in Texas increased from the previous year.
Tips for preventing motorcycle accidents
When you get behind the wheel, keep motorcycles in mind and follow these tips to help prevent accidents:
Be vigilant
Constantly scan your surroundings for motorcycles. Their smaller size makes them harder to spot, so always stay alert and aware of their presence on the road.
Double-check before changing lanes
Use your turn signals and check your blind spots not just once but twice to ensure there are no motorcycles in your intended path. This extra caution can prevent sideswipe accidents.
Exercise caution when turning left
Avoid turning in front of oncoming motorcycles, as judging their speed and distance can be challenging. Let them pass first, and use your turn signal to indicate your intentions clearly.
Approach intersections with care
Intersections are high-risk areas for motorcycle accidents. Take extra care to look out for motorcycles approaching or waiting to turn, and give them space and time to maneuver safely.
Maintain a safe following distance
Keep a reasonable distance between your vehicle and the motorcycles in front of you. Remember that motorcyclists may reduce their speed without activating brake lights, so maintaining a safe distance allows you to react in time.
Follow speed limits
Respect posted speed limits and adjust your driving speed based on road conditions. Speeding increases the risk of accidents and reduces your ability to react to unexpected situations, including encounters with motorcycles.
Stay focused on the road
Avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting music while driving. Keep your attention fully on the road ahead. It only takes a split second of inattention for a serious motorcycle accident to occur.
Get a lawyer who fights hard for injured motorcyclists in East Texas
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Henderson County or anywhere in East Texas, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. Consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the challenges of the legal system and give you a clear understanding of your legal rights.
At Weinstein Law, we understand the seriousness of motorcycle accidents and the impact they can have on victims' lives. Our dedicated legal team is committed to advocating for motorcycle accident victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve from insurance companies that may try to minimize their injuries or outright deny their claims.
Don't hesitate to reach out to our Athens, TX, law firm for compassionate and experienced legal representation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We want to listen to your story, hear about your injuries, and have a conversation about how we can help you.