Texas Drivers Reminded to ‘Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles’
Safety campaign aims to reduce Texas motorcycle accidents
Motorcyclists are a common sight on Texas roads, but riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, with riders exposed to a greater risk of injury or death than those traveling in enclosed vehicles. This is one reason the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has launched a statewide motorcycle safety campaign called “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles.”
The campaign aims to raise public awareness about the dangers faced by motorcycle riders and to encourage drivers to be more cautious and attentive when sharing the road with them. With an average of one rider dying in a motorcycle accident on Texas roads every day, the importance of this campaign cannot be overstated.
Motorcycle accidents in Texas
With a high number of motorcycle collisions resulting in fatalities and serious injuries every year, Texas remains a dangerous place for motorcyclists. TxDOT statistics reveal that in 2021, 519 motorcycle riders lost their lives on Texas roads, with another 2,318 suffering severe injuries.
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is drivers failing to see the motorcycle or misjudging its distance and speed. This is particularly likely to happen at intersections, which are a hotspot for motorcycle collisions.
Distracted driving is another major contributing factor to motorcycle accidents in Texas. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or simply not paying attention to the road are more likely to miss a motorcycle rider sharing the road with them. When they do see the rider, they may not give them enough space or time to maneuver out of danger.
A motorcycle’s small size also means it’s easier for a biker to end up in a driver’s blind spot or be overlooked when a motorist makes a turn or changes lanes. Too many motorists don’t check twice for motorcycles, and the consequences can be deadly. The combination of these factors has made motorcycle safety an ongoing concern for safety advocates in Texas.
TxDOT’s awareness campaign
TxDOT’s “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign has been running across the state for several years. At its core, the campaign seeks to reduce the number of motorcycle crashes and fatalities on Texas roads. Efforts to achieve this include social media campaigns, public service announcements, and educational materials distributed through TxDOT’s website and at local events.
One of the most visible aspects of the campaign is its “Look Twice for Motorcycles” messaging. This slogan is designed to encourage drivers to take an extra moment to check for motorcycles before turning or changing lanes. The campaign also encourages drivers to give motorcycles plenty of room on the road and to avoid distractions that could interfere with their ability to drive safely.
Tips for drivers to share the road with motorcycles
When it comes to sharing the road with motorcyclists, drivers must exercise caution and attentiveness at all times. Intersections, as mentioned above, are a hotbed of activity for motorcycle collisions, with nearly one in three motorcycle fatalities occurring at these locations. To help reduce the risk of a collision, safety experts recommend taking extra care when turning left and allowing motorcycles to pass through the intersection before proceeding.
Other tips for safely sharing the road with motorcycles include:
- Looking twice when changing lanes
- Giving motorcyclists plenty of room when passing
- Maintaining a safe following distance
- Being aware of the motorcycle’s size and taking care to avoid crowding them, as they are entitled to the full width of their lane
At times, motorcyclists may downshift instead of using their brakes to slow down. A bike also has a much shorter stopping distance than a car. That’s why it’s crucial for drivers to maintain a safe following distance, giving themselves ample time to react and prevent a crash.
Drivers need to avoid distractions, keep their full attention on the road, and always signal their intentions when changing lanes or merging with traffic. Moreover, they need to yield the right of way to motorcycles just as they would to any other vehicle and recognize that bikers have just as much right to use the road as any other operator.
Motorcycle accident lawyers serving Houston, TX
If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident due to another driver’s negligence, it’s important to protect your rights. Don’t let the insurance company or other parties push you around and deny you the justice and financial compensation you deserve.
At Smith & Hassler, our Houston, TX motorcycle accident attorneys understand the unique challenges injured motorcycle riders face and can aggressively advocate for your best interests. With decades of experience representing clients in motorcycle accident cases, we have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the legal system and recover the compensation you’re entitled to under Texas law.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.