How to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents

Few things are as satisfying as riding your motorcycle on a clear day with an expanse of open road in front of you. Motorcycles are exciting, but they can also be extremely dangerous. Texas is one of the most dangerous states for motorcyclists, and according to the Texas Department of Transportation, one motorcyclist dies on the road in Texas every day.

Safety should be every motorcyclist’s priority when on the road, so below are some tips on how to avoid motorcycle accidents and how to stay safe on the road. 

Obey the Speed Limit

The law treats motorcycles the same as cars on the road, so riders must follow all the rules that other vehicles must follow, including obeying posted speed limits. Speeding is a factor in nearly a third of all traffic accidents, and collisions at high speeds are exponentially more dangerous than at lower speeds. 

Stay Aware

Always maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially when you are stopped at intersections, and there is a risk of a car rear-ending you. When stopped near an intersection, pull over slightly to the edge of the road and keep your bike ready to move in case you need to roll out of the way of a car coming from behind. 

Don’t Lane Split

Riding between traffic lanes or alongside traffic in the same lane might seem like a smart idea to save time on a motorcycle. However, lane splitting is illegal in Texas (Tex. Transp. Code 545.0605) and can incur fines and license penalties. If you need to pass traffic, use a separate passing lane like other vehicles.  

Wear Colorful Clothing

Motorcycle riders should avoid wearing dark colors when on their bikes. Brightly colored jackets and helmets and reflective materials will make riders more visible to drivers. You should always wear brighter colors, even when riding your bike during the day. 

Use a Helmet

You should never get on your bike without a helmet, even if you only plan to drive for a few miles. Helmets don’t reduce the risk of being in an accident, but they reduce the chance of head injuries and death from an accident by 69% and 42%, respectively. 

Keep Your Bike Maintained

The last thing you want is for a bike part to fail while you are on the road. Regular maintenance will keep your bike in good condition and prevent equipment failures that could lead to catastrophic accidents. 

Never Ride Under the Influence

Riding a motorcycle while drunk or on drugs is a DUI, which can carry heavy fines, license restrictions, and criminal charges. Drugs and alcohol lower your reaction time, and even a small difference in reaction time can mean the difference between a safe trip and a horrible accident. 

Law Tigers – America’s Motorcycle Lawyers

Following these safety tips is crucial for reducing your risk on the road, but accidents can still happen, even when you’re being cautious. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, Law Tigers can help.

Whether you were obeying all the rules or made a mistake, like breaking one of these safety guidelines, our experienced motorcycle attorneys understand the unique challenges riders face and will work tirelessly to fight for your rights.

Want to know more about rider safety, like how to avoid motorcycle accidents? Contact Law Tigers today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road with confidence.

Ride safe, and remember—Law Tigers has your back!