Motorcycle Accident Statistics 2019 – City vs. Highway
Texas is known for its quality roads and beautiful scenery. Better still, the Lone Star state does not experience much cold weather, so it naturally attracts thousands of motorcyclists all year round. With roughly 420,000 registered motorcycles in Texas sharing roadways with millions of cars, the odds of getting injured (or even killed) in a motorcycle accident are much higher. Data from The Texas Department of Transportation shows that at least one motorcyclist dies in a crash every day. Continue reading to get the latest Texas motorcycle accident statistics.
Latest Texas motorcycle accident statistics
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), motorcycle crashes form a serious problem in Texas.
According to 2019 motorcycle accident statistics data:
- There were 412 motorcyclists (riders and passengers) killed in the Lone Star state.
- The number of motorcyclists who were seriously injured in motorcycle accidents exceeded 1,800.
- Forty-five percent (45%) of motorcyclists who died in the crashes were not wearing helmets when the accident happened.
- Thirty (30%) of Texas motorcycle fatalities were intersection-related or occurred in an intersection.
- Sixty-one (61%) of the crashes occurred in the summer months, between May and October, due to increased traffic.
- Corpus Christi, Houston, Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Dallas were among the cities that recorded the highest number of fatal motorcycle crashes.
- Interstate 45 (I-45), Interstate 10 (I-10), and Interstate 37 (I-37) – the highway that connects Corpus Christi and San Antonio – are among the most dangerous roads in Texas.
What causes motorcycle accidents in Texas?
A motorcycle can be dangerous on the road. Unlike four-wheeled cars, they are less stable and often less visible to other motorists and pedestrians.
And for that reason, accidents between other motorists and motorcyclists will occur for a wide range of reasons. These may include a driver misjudging the motorcycle’s distance or speed and making left turns in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
Distractions while on the road and increased traffic, especially during summer months, are among the causes of motorcycle accidents in Texas. Other causes may include drunk driving and motorcycle lane splitting.
Preventing motorcycle accidents
Prevalent as motorcycle accidents are in Texas, they are preventable. However, riding a motorcycle requires a unique combination of physical and mental skills.
Whether you are a new or experienced biker, it is critical to wear proper safety gear, including a Dot-approved helmet.
Other things motorcyclists need to do to stay safe on the roads include:
- Having proper motorcycle safety training before you hitting the road
- Maintaining a safe speed.
- Wearing bright colors at night to let other road users know that you are on the road.
- Inspecting your motorcycle before riding to ensure there are no maintenance issues.
- Riding defensively by looking ahead for possible safety issues and remaining on high alert.
- Obeying traffic rules while on the road
- Avoid riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Watching for road hazards like debris, potholes, and oil.
- Always assuming other motorists can’t see you.
Were you injured in a motorcycle accident? Consult a personal injury lawyer today!
Preventing crashes, so they don’t occur is what everyone wants. Sadly, motorcycle accidents still happen regardless of how careful a rider is.
If you have been injured (or a loved one was killed) in a Texas motorcycle accident, our Corpus Christi motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim. At the Burkett Law Firm, we have helped many clients recover compensation for injuries or deaths suffered in motorcycle accidents.
Talk to us today at 361-223-6862 to schedule a free initial consultation and learn how we can help you pursue full and fair compensation.
