Motorcycle accidents result in some of the most catastrophic and life-altering injuries on the roads today. While these smaller, more exposed vehicles do come with their own increased level of danger, the reality is that it is often the failures of other drivers that result in motorcycle collisions in Texas.
As you drive from point A to point B, consider the safety of your fellow travelers who are trying to do the same. No matter the vehicle you choose to drive or ride, consider some important safety tips to reduce the likelihood of disastrous motorcycle-involved accidents.
Everyone on the road has a role
Thousands of people in Texas sustain injuries or die due to motorcycle collisions every year. The majority of these crashes involve another vehicle, which means others on the road can make a major impact on the safety of motorcyclists through a few safety precautions.
It is up to every person in every vehicle to contribute to the safety of their fellow travelers, no matter what they drive or ride. As the driver of a car, truck or other large vehicles, consider some safety reminders to mitigate the likelihood of collisions with more vulnerable travelers.
- Give motorcyclists their space. A motorcycle should have the full width of a traffic lane the same as any larger vehicle. Don’t crowd in next to a motorcyclist or force them to split lanes.
- Avoid tailgating and following too close behind a motorcycle. If you need to make a sudden stop, it is important that you leave enough distance to do so effectively. Leave about four seconds of space between your car and any vehicle in front of you.
- Always use a turn signal to indicate your intended movements. Let the signal run for a few seconds before you change lanes or turn across lanes of traffic.
- Take another look before you move. Looking at blind spots and your car’s surroundings is important, but one look is not enough. Check again before changing lanes and at an intersection to be sure you didn’t miss a small vehicle.
Riders should maintain safety
Not only do other drivers need to consider the safety of motorcyclists, but riders themselves also need to take proper safety precautions. Always check on the weather conditions, maintain proper care of your vehicle, wear safety gear and follow related laws where you ride.
Your safety should be a top priority every time you ride, which means keeping with up safety measures and driving defensively. It would be great if other drivers always watched for small vehicles, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. Motorcycle safety is a group effort, so every person needs to do their share.
Motorcycle accidents often have life-changing and disastrous consequences. Consider safety precautions and reminders as you hit the road, no matter what kind of vehicle you choose to drive.