With summer approaching, the warmer weather brings out more motorcycle riders than any other time of year. The increase of motorcycles on the roadways also brings more motorcycle accidents. The Texas Department of Transportation, TxDOT, has declared May as Motorcycle Awareness Month.
According to TxDOT, over 500 motorcyclists were killed, and more than 2,000 were injured last year in Texas accidents. A TxDOT spokesperson says that other drivers need to become more aware of riders.
Look Twice for Motorcycles
The TxDOT initiative is called “Look Twice for motorcycles.” The campaign is designed to bring more attention to motorcycles on the roads. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, they are often unnoticed by other drivers. This makes them more susceptible to accidents.
A motorcyclist might suffer serious injuries and even fatalities when an accident occurs.
Drivers are encouraged to take extra precautions to ensure they are aware of motorcycles on the roads. Always check at intersections and avoid following too closely behind a motorcycle. Motorists should not try to share a lane with a motorcyclist.
Drivers should always check for blind spots because motorcycles can be easily out of view.
Intersections are Where Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen!
According to TxDOT, intersections are the most common for motorcycle accidents. About a quarter of motorcycle crashes happen when a vehicle makes a left-hand turn in front of a motorcyclist. This might occur because the driver failed to see the motorcycle.
Helmets Are Not Always Required in Texas
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents often result in very serious injuries. Motorcyclists should always wear a helmet. Texas Administrative Code §21.5201 (c)(1)(2) allows riders to be exempt from wearing a helmet if they carry health insurance that includes motorcycle health.
However, riders should protect themselves from harm in any way possible. Always wear proper shoes and clothing to protect the body in an accident.
Serious Injuries and Deaths From Bike Wrecks
The most serious injuries occur at speeds over 40 MPH. However, even a low-speed accident can result in severe injuries or fatalities. Injuries often include broken bones, lacerations, contusions, and neck and back injuries.
Here are the steps to take after being hurt in a motorcycle crash.
Head trauma is likely the most serious injury to motorcyclists in accidents. Head trauma occurs when the rider’s head impacts the roadway or another vehicle.
Head trauma may require surgical treatment and is always considered a medical emergency. Some motorcyclists will recover from their injuries, while others may require months or years of treatment.
Some injuries might be life-threatening, and others might result in a lifelong disability. These injuries are serious, and the negligent party should be held responsible for the damages. Given the traffic congestion in Houston, motorcycle riding on major highways is especially hazardous.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, your first concern is to receive medical care. Then, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss the situation. The law limits the time to file a claim, so do not delay.
You should talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston when you are injured in a motorcycle accident. Call the legal team at Baumgartner Law Firm today to learn how we can protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77069
Call (281) 587-1111.
Related Posts:
The Dangers of Riding a Motorcycle in Houston
8 Essential Factors to Consider When Hiring a Motorcycle Lawyer
Motorcycle Passenger Rights After an Accident in Texas
Resources:
Texas Department of Transportation, https://www.txdot.gov/
