Motorcycle accidents in Texas can be extremely serious. Motorcycle drivers and their passengers don’t receive the same physical protection during accidents as drivers and passengers of cars and trucks. Although motorcycle drivers are certainly not always at fault in an accident, they still face a higher risk of serious injury and death. More than 15% of all vehicle fatalities in Texas involve motorcycles. Here’s how motorcyclists in Texas can reduce their risk of an accident.

Avoid Lane Splitting

Although Texas is considering statutes that would legalize lane splitting at least under some circumstances, it is a dangerous practice. Lane splitting is a common cause of motorcycle accidents because of how close motorcycles are to other vehicles as they drive between the slower or stopped vehicles in two lanes. Motorcycle drivers don’t have as much time to react in the face of a hazard.

Never Drink and Drive

It may seem like an obvious tip, but it’s important. Almost one-third of all fatal motorcycle accidents in the United States happen because the driver was drinking according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Further, drinking and driving is the primary cause of roughly half of motorcycle accidents in the US. Since motorcycles don’t provide riders with as much protection as passenger vehicles, drinking and driving is even more deadly for motorcycle riders.

Obey Speed Limits

When you’re driving a motorcycle in Texas, obeying speed limits becomes even more important. A passenger vehicle can swerve to avoid certain objects or even hit certain objects and continue on their way with no or little damage. Yet, motorcycles don’t always have this luxury. Swerving at a high rate of speed increases the chance that you’ll lose control of your motorcycle and be involved in a wreck. Hitting certain objects can be more dangerous as well. This danger increases if you’re speeding.

Always Wear the Proper Safety Equipment

While wearing the proper safety equipment won’t necessarily help you avoid being involved in a motorcycle accident, it can reduce the chance of severe injuries or even death. Although motorcycle drivers and riders over the age of 21 do not have to wear a helmet in Texas, it’s important to note that a helmet can help protect you from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or other type of head injury.

Wearing the right type of jacket, boots, and pants as a motorcycle rider can help protect you from road rash. While road rash may not seem serious, it can lead to permanent scarring, permanent nerve damage, and deadly infections.

Ride Safely

Before riding your motorcycle, be sure to check for the most likely causes of a motorcycle crash, such as low tire pressure, thin tire treads, malfunctioning hand or foot brakes, faulty headlights or signal indicators, or low fluid levels. If you are carrying cargo, make sure it is balanced on the scooter. And if you are carrying a passenger, ensure they are familiar with all aspects of motorcycle safety.

Almost half of all motorcycle accidents in the United States happen when a car is making a left-hand turn. Often the motorcyclist tries to pass the vehicle or believes that they can beat the vehicle through the intersection. Because motorcycle accidents can be extremely serious, it’s important that motorcyclists take extra precautions in order to protect themselves.

Were You Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in Texas, contact Thompson Law. We understand Texas laws surrounding motorcycle accidents in Texas. We provide free initial consultations and we can help you protect your legal rights. Don’t wait. THE FOURS ATTORNEYS are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in Dallas at 214-444-4444 or Fort Worth at 817-444-4444. Or call us toll-free now at 844-308-8180.