Blind Spots Kill Motorcyclists
Summertime is here and that means more motorcycles are buzzing on our highways and roadways. The warmer weather naturally draws people to take to the road and that is especially true regarding motorcyclists. Unfortunately, that is when motorcycle accidents peak each year and blind spots are one of the main causes.
In 2019, TXDOT reported 410 motorcyclist operators and passengers were killed and 45% of those killed were not wearing a helmet at the time of the fatal accident. TXDOT launches its Share the Road, Look Twice for Motorcycles campaign in April or May each year. This is a statewide safety and public awareness campaign cautioning motorists to “look twice” for motorcycles in traffic, especially at intersections where most motorcycle accidents occur.
The main cause of motorcycle accidents with other vehicles is blind spots that occur whenever a motorcycle is not seen in standard rearview mirrors. Drivers of cars and trucks can greatly prevent those crashes by adding “blind spot mirrors” to their side rear mirrors on their vehicle’s front doors. This gives drivers a much wider rearview. You can also find blind spot mirrors with an embedded video display. The device helps drivers see people or objects in their blind spots using a tiny camera mounted to the back of the car. It is worth doing some research to learn about the best mirrors available to help with deadly blind spots.
Driving Safely Alongside Motorcyclists
Fatal motorcycle crashes result from collisions with other vehicles. Drivers cannot always see the motorcycle or can misjudge their distance and speed. The motorcycle can appear farther away than it actually is. Congested roadways, distracted driving, and the difficulty of seeing motorcycles have all led to many preventable fatalities each year.
Good safety tips to use while sharing the road with motorcycles:
- Always look twice for motorcycles, at intersections in particular.
- Always realize motorcycles, because of their small size, are closer than they appear
- Avoid turning in front of an oncoming motorcycle
- Always use the turn signal and turn only after looking both ways twice in front and back
- Don’t follow too closely behind a motorcycle
- Give motorcyclists a full lane when possible
- Honor speed limits
As for the motorcyclist, wear a properly fitting safety helmet and colorful, bright clothing so your head will be protected and you will be more visible to drivers in traffic. Also, if you often change from right to left in your lane so that the driver in from of you can see you in their blind spots, that will be helpful in preventing crashes.
Injured in an Accident? Call Cesar.
Most traffic accidents can be prevented and many lives saved if drivers would stay focused on what is around them at all times. However, no matter how careful you might be, you never know what the other driver is going to do. Accidents happen every day, and if you or someone you know has experienced one, know that you can call Cesar Ornelas, a successful attorney who knows exactly how to help you, to get you compensation for your injuries and medical bills.
Let Cesar explain to you how he can fight on your behalf at your FREE CONSULTATION. You can find peace of mind when you are in the hands of Cesar and his team at Cesar Ornelas Law Firm. Call today toll-free at 855-339-1166 or 210-405-6503 or fill out our contact form.