4 Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Texas
Driving a motorcycle can be a fun and exhilarating means of transportation, but it is no secret that motorcycles can be very dangerous. Compared to drivers in closed, four-wheel vehicles, drivers and passengers on motorcycles are left much more vulnerable to hazards in the event of an accident. With over 5,000 motorcyclists dying annually in motorcycle crashes, staying alert and practicing safe driving methods while operating a motorcycle is crucial.
Motorcycle crash injury attorney Dale R. Rose has been helping victims in the state of Texas for nearly 25 years. While a crash can occur for an infinite number of reasons, there are four common causes often to blame for Texas motorcycle crashes.
The 4 Common Causes of Texas Motorcycle Crashes
Over the years, the number of motorcycle crashes has dropped significantly, but it does not change the fact that motorcycle crashes are still common in Texas. Texas is known for dangerous roadways, and motorcyclists are left exposed and at mercy to the multitude of hazards on the roads. Motorcycles are less visible to other drivers and are far less stable. The following are the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Texas:
Failure to See the Motorcyclist
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that more than 40 percent of motorcycle accidents occur when a driver turns left without checking or not seeing a motorcyclist in their path. In this scenario, a motorcyclist may be going straight, passing, or overtaking another vehicle. It is imperative to always check your surroundings and be alert when making a left turn.
Because motorcycles are smaller than other cars or trucks, when a driver checks their blind spot, they may not see the motorcycle and cause a severe accident. This is why it is always so important to do a check of any blind spot when making turns or changing lanes.
Dangerous Weather Conditions
Texas drivers are prone to be caught in dangerous weather conditions that make roads slick or hazardous to drive on. However, due to motorcycles having only two wheels—making them far less stable than other vehicles—motorcyclists are left vulnerable when severe weather catches them out on a drive. Dangerous weather can cause motorcyclists to become disoriented or even spin out, causing an accident.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is when motorcyclists ride along the line that divides two lanes of traffic and often occurs during slowly moving traffic to save time. Due to motorcyclists getting dangerously close to vehicles during this maneuver, it can often lead to crashes. While there is no explicit law prohibiting lane splitting, the law states that drivers must remain in a single lane, essentially making lane splitting illegal.
Failure to Obey Traffic Signs and Signals
Traffic signals and signs are there to help keep all drivers safe. When a driver runs a red light, speeds past a stop sign, or turns right when they are in a left turn only lane, there is a risk for an accident. Always be sure to be alert when you are driving so as not to fail to obey traffic signals.
Get Help from a Skilled Texas Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Whether you have incurred medical costs from your injuries, lost wages, or property damages, you should not have to pay out of pocket for an accident you did not cause. Dale R. Rose is an experienced Texas injury attorney helping victims of motorcycle accidents get the compensation they are owed.
Dale R. Rose is an award-winning injury lawyer with extensive experience handling motorcycle injury claims. Complete our contact form or call (972) 737-1333 for a free consultation.
