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Biggest Dangers for Motorcycle Riders

Biggest Dangers for Motorcycle Riders

Motorcycle riding can be an exhilarating experience — the wind in your hair, cruising down a highway, and enjoying the freedom that comes with owning a motorcycle.  That said, there are dangers involved in riding motorcycles in Texas.  In this post, we are highlighting the biggest dangers for motorcycle riders in Texas.

  • Other Drivers on the Road – One of the most common dangers for motorcycle riders are the other drivers on the road.   Motorcycles are small, and other drivers are less likely to see them when they are changing lanes.  This may cause a driver to move into a lane where a motorcycle is riding and hit it.   In addition, motorists may be distracted because they are eating, drinking, or texting, which may cause an accident with a motorcycle.
  • Not a lot of protection – Motorcycle riders have increased risks when on the road because they are on two wheels and not four.  In addition, there are less protections for motorcycle riders because they are out in the open and not inside a vehicle.
  • Reckless Driving and Speeding – Both other vehicles and motorcyclists increase their odds of getting into an accident if they are speeding or driving recklessly.   Motorcycles that are involved in racing or weaving between traffic can cause accidents because other vehicles do not anticipate these maneuvers.  Motorcyclists who drive under the influence of drugs can also cause accidents because this causes drivers to make bad decisions as well as have reduced reaction times.
  • Following a Motorcycle Too Closely – Whether due to road rage or other issues, sometimes drivers in vehicles tailgate motorcycle riders.  This is dangerous because the motorcycle can stop short and the car can rear-end the motorcycle, causing an accident.   Also, this may happen if the motorcycle is following a car too closely.
  • Hazardous Roads – Because motorcycles are on two wheels instead of four, hazardous road conditions can be increasingly dangerous to motorcycles.  Conditions like loose rocks or potholes will cause motorcycle accidents as well.  Also, horrible weather conditions can also be a contributing factor to motorcycle accidents in Texas.
  • Lane Splitting – Lane splitting — driving between two cars on a highway — is also a common cause of motorcycle accidents in Texas.  Lane splitting is illegal in Texas, but some motorcyclists still do it, usually in order to avoid sitting in traffic.  This move can be a dangerous practice because the motorcycle is so close to the vehicles as it tries to pass in between them.
  • Wearing Proper Safety Equipment – Wearing the proper safety equipment while riding a motorcycle will not help in avoiding a motorcycle accident, it will probably reduce the possibility that severe injuries (or death) will result from accidents.  While not wearing a helmet in Texas is not illegal for those over the age of 21, not wearing one will help prevent traumatic brain injuries when involved in an accident. If you or a loved one has been affected by a motorcycle accident and is in need of legal assistance, consider reaching out to an Austin brain injury lawyer for guidance.
  • Turning a Corner Too Fast – Motorcyclists know that turning a corner too fast can have dangerous results.  Turning a corner too fast can result in going into oncoming traffic too quickly and could result in a head to head accident with a vehicle.  In addition, turning a corner too fast can sometimes make the motorcycle fall to the ground, resulting in injuries.
  • Car Doors – Motorcycle accidents can occur when you least expect them.  Parked cars can be dangerous to motorcyclists if the driver opens their car door without noticing that a motorcycle is coming up behind them.  Also, if a motorcyclist is not paying attention, he could also slam into an opening door, which can cause injuries.
  • Defects in the Motorcycle – While not the fault of the driver, motorcycle defects can also cause accidents on the road.  A defect may cause a motorcycle to suddenly turn off, which may result in an accident with the vehicle behind it.  Defects in motorcycles should be brought directly back to the dealership to be fixed.

What is the Greatest Risk to You as a Motorcyclist?

There are many risks associated with riding a motorcycle in Texas.  From using protective equipment to watching out for others on the road, motorcycle riders need to be extra careful when they strap on the gear and hit the road.

As we have mentioned before, other drivers pose the greatest risk to motorcycles in Texas.  You can be the safest biker in the state, but you do not have any control over the other cars on the road.  Other drivers may be distracted while eating or talking on the phone.  Also, motorcycles are smaller than cars so you might not be seen as easily on the road.

If you are on your motorcycle behind a car, it is important to create a safe distance.  If the vehicle in front of you slams on the brakes, you will not have sufficient time to react.  If a motorcycle suddenly brakes, the rider may be thrown off the seat or may be catapulted over the bike onto the roadway.

Also, as we’ve mentioned, car doors that are suddenly thrown open can be a risk to motorcycles that are passing them.  Motorcyclists need to remain diligent when passing vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road.

Last, it is always important that you wear protective equipment so that, in the event of an accident, you will not be injured as badly as if you were not protected.  Enjoy the open road, but safety is first.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Texas to Help With Your Claim

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Texas, you will need a lawyer to guide you through the claim filing process.  You may be entitled to compensation for your physical and emotional injuries, and you will want lawyers who know the ins and outs of the legal system in Texas.

The attorneys at Evans/Reilley have the experience and knowledge to get you the compensation you deserve.  We will fight for your rights as a motorcycle accident victim.  We will work with the insurance companies and their lawyers to negotiate a settlement or, if necessary, go to trial.  Our experienced lawyers have done it all, representing the injured in all sorts of situations.

Reach out to our Austin motorcycle accident lawyer today at (512) 732-2727 for a free consultation.

Attorney Chip Evans

Austin Attorney Chip EvansChip Evans is a partner at Evans & Herlihy. Chip brings to the firm more than 20 years of experience as a trial lawyer representing Plaintiffs. It is the desire to help individuals, not corporations, that attracts Chip to this side of the docket. [ Attorney Bio ]