Motorcycle crash rates are on the rise in Texas

Motorcycle crash rates are on the rise in Texas

Motorcycles only represent a minority of the vehicles registered in Texas. However, they have disproportionate representation in crash statistics. Motorcycles offer very little protection in the event of a collision. They do not have the built-in safety systems that enclosed vehicles feature. They can also be dangerous in part because people in larger vehicles don’t always notice motorcycles near them in traffic. Combine the difficulty noticing motorcycles in traffic with distraction caused by a phone or chemical intoxication, and that is a recipe for a tragic preventable crash. Motorcycle riders need to make their safety a top priority whenever they head out on the road. Their risk levels may currently be higher than they were just a few years ago according to recent collision statistics.

Hundreds of people died on motorcycles last year

Motorcycle riders are often proactive about maintaining their motorcycles and carefully following all traffic laws. They know how dangerous it can be for them to make a mistake in traffic. Although motorcycle riders tend to be safety-conscious, they have to share the road with people who don’t watch for them. Drivers frequently fail to notice motorcycles even during broad daylight. Visibility issues are likely only one part of why crash rates are on the rise. Drivers who don’t look for motorcycles tend to miss them in traffic. An overall increase in unsafe traffic habits has led to increased risk for motorcycle riders in particular. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, motorcycle fatalities have increased in recent years. 2023 saw nearly 600 fatalities among motorcycle riders. More than 2,400 other riders incurred serious injuries in crashes and collisions. The fatalities in 2023 represent a 7% increase from 2022.

How can riders stay safe?

Defensive driving is important for everyone, especially those on motorcycles. Paying close attention to road conditions can be quite important. So can treating other drivers as a source of risk. Giving bigger vehicles plenty of space and yielding the right of way at busy intersections can sometimes protect a motorcycle rider from a crash that could put them in the hospital or worse. Riders who are familiar with their risk levels can potentially protect themselves from a car-motorcycle collision. Texas riders have more reason to prioritize safety now than they did just a few years ago. And, unfortunately, that means a greater risk of needing legal guidance post-crash than they did a few years ago too.