Motorcycle Safety Tips Every Texas Rider And Driver Should Know

Here in South Texas our wonderful weather allows motorcyclists to enjoy the roads almost every day. But taking your bike out for a ride is not without risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports some sobering statistics:

 - 4,668 motorcyclists were killed in motorcycle accidents in the U.S. in 2013 and 88,000 were injured.
 - 34% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding – compare this with only 21% for passenger car drivers killed in fatal accidents.
 - A whopping 25% of bikers involved in fatal crashes were riding without valid motorcycle licenses.
 - DWI is a continuing problem – 28% of those motorcycle drivers killed in accidents had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher.

Here’s one more interesting fact: Texas had 457 motorcyclist deaths during 2013 – second only to Florida. Texas even beat out California which has 11 million more residents. Texas, however, far outranked both Florida and California in the percentage of bikers killed with a BAC of .08 or higher – a huge 37%!

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Although many accidents are caused by irresponsible driving including speeding and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, others are caused by factors beyond the control of the driver:

• Drivers of other vehicles who violate the bike’s right of way
  
• Other drivers who don’t see the motorcycle in traffic
  
• Poor weather conditions
  
• Roadway defects like uneven pavement, potholes and oil slicks
  
• Vehicle failure
  

Serious Injuries May Result from Motorcycle Accidents

• Bike accidents are particularly dangerous because the vehicle offers little protection for its riders and other vehicles are much heavier and larger. Typical injuries from motorcycle accidents include: 
  
• Abrasions or road rash
  
• Broken bones
  
• Facial fractures
  
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  
• Temporary or permanently disabling back and neck damage
  

The costs of recovering from these types of injuries can be devastating, reaching far beyond immediate medical care. Other expenses can last a lifetime and can include physical therapy, rehabilitation, lifestyle changes and home modifications. These costs don’t even include lost wages. We’d be happy to meet with you to discuss possible compensation for injuries if you’ve been in a motorcycle accident.