TxDOT Reminds Drivers to ‘Share the Road’ with Motorcycles
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), there were 460 fatalities of people riding motorcycles or scooters in accidents on Texas roads in 2012. That was done from the 488 fatalities in 2011. But that is still too many losses.
Texas has implemented the ‘Share the Road’ campaign as a way to remind all drivers to be aware of motorcyclists and urges everyone to ‘Look Twice’ while on the road. TxDOT urges drivers to keep checking your mirrors for motorcycles and always use turn signals. And if you are driving near a motorcycle, remember to give them enough space, allowing them enough time to react if traffic situations should arise.
The TxDOT also offers safety tips for motorcyclist. The agency urges all riders to wear a helmet and other protective gear. They recommend driving with your headlights on at all times and at safe speeds. Also try to avoid the center of a lane as this is where oil and debris build up, which could be dangerous. Whether you are a brand new rider or an experienced one, take a motorcycle riding course to help reinforce safety rules and techniques.
Texas A&M Transportation Institute conducted a survey which revealed that in more than half of motorcycle crashes that occurred last year, the other driver never even saw the motorcycle. The two most common places where motorcycle accidents occur are at intersections and while changing lanes.
Another statistic revealed in the survey was that 89 percent of motorcycle crashes that occurred last year ended with either the death or injury of the motorcyclist. Cities and urban areas proved to be more dangerous places than rural areas, with more than half of the motorcycle fatalities occurring in cities. And more than half of all motorcyclists killed last year were not wearing helmets.
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s carelessness, contact an experienced New Braunfels personal injury attorney today to find out what damages you may be entitled to for pain and loss.
