Texas Motorcycle Accidents: Dallas Drivers Encouraged to Share the Road with Motorcyclists

Learn how you can help prevent Serious motorcycle Wrecks

Texas is known for its vast open roads and breathtaking scenic drives, making it a prime location for motorcycle enthusiasts. Unfortunately, these same roads can also pose significant dangers to motorcyclists. As the number of bikers on Texas roads continues to increase, so does the number of motorcycle accidents and rider fatalities. Motorcycle safety is of paramount importance, and it is a responsibility that all road users must take seriously.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, at least one motorcyclist dies in a crash on Texas roads every day. This sobering statistic highlights the importance of sharing the road with bikers and understanding the risks motorcyclists face when other drivers are negligent.

Motorcycle accident statistics

The Lone Star State has one of the highest rates of motorcycle wrecks in the nation. According to TxDOT, in 2022, 562 riders lost their lives, and 2,422 were seriously injured in crashes. In addition, more than half of the state's fatal motorcycle crashes result from collisions with other vehicles.

Urban areas and intersections are where most accidents occur. TxDOT reports nearly one in three motorcycle fatalities happens at a roadway intersection. This is due in part to the increased likelihood of driver error at intersections and the difficulty of seeing motorcycles in traffic.

Nationally, motorcycle riders continue to be disproportionately affected by fatal traffic crashes, with the latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) painting a grim picture. In 2021, 5,932 motorcyclists died on American roads, making up 14% of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities since at least 1975.

Why are Texas roads so dangerous for bikers?

There are several reasons why motorcycle accidents are so prevalent in Texas. One primary reason is the high traffic volume on the state's roads. The Texas Triangle has some of the busiest highways and interstates in the country, making it more likely for negligent drivers to cause motorcycle accidents.

In response to the alarming number of motorcycle wrecks in the state, TxDOT has launched its "Share the Road" campaign. The initiative urges motorists to look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections, where motorcycle collisions most commonly occur.

Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles

Unlike cars and other larger vehicles with a protective enclosure, motorcycles offer little protection to riders in the event of a collision. Unfortunately, this means motorcyclists are more susceptible to severe injuries or even death when involved in an accident.

Tips for drivers to prevent motorcycle accidents include:

• Always use turn signals: Use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns to alert motorcyclists of your intentions.
• Check your blind spots: Before changing lanes, turning, merging, or passing, make sure to check your blind spots for motorcyclists who may be in your path.
• Keep a safe distance: When driving behind a motorcyclist, keep a safe following distance of at least 3 to 4 seconds to allow for sudden stops or turns. Motorcycles can stop much faster than a car, truck, or SUV, and if you're following too closely, you could cause a rear-end collision that ejects the rider from the bike.
• Be aware of intersections: Intersections are a common site of motorcycle accidents, so make sure to approach them with caution and be aware of any motorcyclists in the area.
• Avoid distracted driving: Avoid any activity that can take your attention away from the road, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. The only way to remain aware of your surroundings and watch for bikers is to stay focused on the task of driving.

Ultimately, the safety of bikers is a responsibility that falls primarily on other drivers. By following the tips outlined above, drivers can take steps to prevent motorcycle accidents and protect the safety of everyone on the road.

Contact an experienced Dallas, TX motorcycle accident lawyer

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, it's important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your rights and options as soon as possible.