The temperatures in Texas are rising as we creep further into May – the summer months are (unofficially) here! With school being out and Texas skies gracing us with such beautiful weather, Texans everywhere are ready to load up the car and head out on an adventure. Among them are motorcyclists, just as eagerly anticipating the freedom summer brings!
We know how exciting these trips can be. However, traveling during the summer brings some risks, especially for motorcyclists. With traffic ready to rise, and in honor of May being Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, we have crafted the ultimate guide to motorcycle safety for both riders and drivers!
Motorcycle Safety for Riders
Riding a motorcycle requires some additional safety precautions that other drivers don’t usually have to consider. While any driver takes a risk when getting into the vehicle, motorcyclists are statistically more vulnerable to serious injury or fatality if involved in a crash. On average, 1.3 motorcyclists die every day on Texas roads. Our hope is to educate riders and drivers on the dangers of carelessness on the roads and give you the tools to protect yourself and others.
Investing in the right gear is the first step towards safe motorcycling. Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet to protect against head injuries. Use abrasion-resistant materials like leather or Kevlar to minimize injury. Protect your hands while ensuring a solid grip on the handlebars. Wear durable boots with non-slip soles to provide critical ankle support and visors or goggles to protect against debris.
Keeping your motorcycle in top condition is crucial for safety, including routine inspections and professional servicing. Check the tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels regularly. Schedule regular maintenance with a certified mechanic, and make sure the brake and clutch are responsive and reliable.
Different weather conditions require different approaches. Reduce speed in the rain and increase distance from other vehicles to avoid hydroplaning. Use low beams in foggy conditions and maintain a consistent speed. When riding during the evening or early in the morning, enhance visibility with reflective gear and extra caution.
Aside from basic safety precautions, Texas has very specific laws protecting motorcyclists and other drivers on the road.
Helmet Laws
In Texas, all riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a DOT-compliant helmet without exceptions. Riders older than 21 can be legally exempted from wearing a helmet if they have completed a motorcycle operator and training safety course or if they hold insurance that specifically covers injuries caused by a crash on a motorcycle. While these groups of individuals may not be required to wear a helmet, it’s still highly encouraged. Helmets save lives. Head injuries are the leading cause of death in motorcycle crashes. Studies by Crash Outcome Data Evaluation System (CODES) show that motorcyclists involved in crashes without helmets were three times more likely to suffer brain injuries than those wearing helmets.
Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing
Before September 2023, lane splitting and lane filtering, or the practice of riding between lanes of moving traffic, were not explicitly addressed in Texas motor laws. Because of this, there was some confusion about whether or not it was legal. However, HB-4122 clarified the situation by outlawing both lane splitting and lane sharing for motorcycles. The law does make an exception to allow two motorcycles to ride side-by-side in the same lane and for police officers performing official duties.
Rules for Passenger Carrying
In Texas, motorcyclists are permitted to carry a single passenger as long as the motorcycle was designed to carry more than the primary rider, and they must have a dedicated seat and footrests. A child must be 5 years or older to be a passenger and are legally required to wear a helmet up until the age of 21.
Tips for Drivers
In 2024, 581 reported motorcyclists were killed a crash, and 2,534 more were seriously injured. One of the biggest hazards for motorcyclists is other drivers, with over half of these reported crashes involving a person in a standard vehicle. Motorcycles are obviously a lot smaller than your average car, so drivers need to be extremely cautious when maneuvering to avoid causing a devastating crash with a motorcycle.
As mentioned above, it is illegal for a motorcycle to pass you in a shared lane, but the same goes for drivers in cars. Texas law states that motorcyclists have the same road rights and responsibilities as any other motorist – this includes their right to the full width of a lane. Never try to push a motorcyclist over to pass them in a single lane and always keep your distance when following behind a motorcycle.
Because of their size, motorcyclists are more likely to be hidden in your blind-spot when using review mirrors. Before making any lane change, it’s crucial that you look over your shoulder to determine if the lane is clear. Look, then look twice to make sure there are no motorcyclists riding alongside your vehicle. It can be difficult to gauge the exact location of a motorcyclist, so always play it safe. If there is a motorcycle approaching in the other lane, wait for them to pass and then switch lanes once it is safe to do so.
Follow all traffic laws and take extra precautions at intersections. TxDOT reports that 40% of fatal crashes involving motorcycles happen in an intersection. Prioritize the health and safety of you and other drivers by carefully approaching an intersection, especially when turning right at a red light. Don’t assume you know how fast a motorcycle is traveling. Remember, it is extremely dangerous to cut off a motorcyclist. While slamming on your brakes in a car has its risks, doing so on a motorcycle could throw the rider off their bike and into the road.
When to Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Unfortunately, even the most cautious motorcyclists can find themselves in a crash that was no fault of their own. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, gather all necessary documentation, such as medical records and police reports, and consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement. They can help you navigate the legal process, making sure you receive the full value you deserve for your injury.
Seeking legal counsel may be necessary if you feel you have a viable personal injury case or if your insurance claim was denied. A lawyer specializing in motorcycle crashes can provide valuable assistance in situations where you were wrongly accused of being at fault, your damages exceed insurance coverage, or you incurred severe physical injuries and associated costs. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case and understand your rights.
By following these guidelines, you can minimize risks and enhance your safety on the road. Always prioritize safety over speed, and make sure you’re equipped with the knowledge and gear to face any challenge as you navigate the roads. Ride safely!
