417 motorcyclists died in 2018 in crashes on Texas roads
AUSTIN – TxDOT’s statewide “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” motorcycle safety and public awareness campaign urges motorists to look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections, where motorcycle collisions most commonly occur.
Why should drivers be aware of motorcyclists when traveling Texas roads?
On average, a motorcyclist dies in a crash on Texas roads every day. In 2018, 417 riders lost their lives and 920 were seriously injured in crashes. More than half of fatal motorcycle crashes result from collisions with other vehicles. Drivers simply don’t see the motorcycle or misjudge its distance and speed. The small size of motorcycles can make them appear farther away when they’re actually closer. The combination of congested roadways, distracted driving and the difficulty of seeing motorcycles in traffic has led to many preventable fatalities each year.
What are some tips for safely sharing the road with motorcycles?
- Look twice for motorcycles, especially at intersections.
- Always assume motorcycles are closer than they appear to be, and avoid turning in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
- Use your turn signals and check your blind spot before changing lanes.
- Don’t follow a motorcycle too closely.
- Give motorcyclists a full lane.
- Obey posted speed limits.
To learn more about the “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” statewide campaign, visit TxDOT’s website.
For media inquiries, contact TxDOT Media Relations at [email protected] or (512) 463-8700.