TxDOT Launches Motorcycle Safety Awareness Campaign

AUSTIN – In an effort to curb an increase in motorcycle fatalities on Texas roads, the Texas Department of Transportation is launching its “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign as part of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in May. The campaign implores drivers to watch closely for motorcycles, especially at intersections and when changing lanes.

“Part of our responsibility as motorists is to always be aware of other vehicles on the road and to give them plenty of space,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable because they can be difficult to see and don’t have the standard safety features found in cars and trucks. On a motorcycle, even a relatively minor collision can be fatal, so we’re urging drivers to please keep an eye out for their fellow motorists.”

Motorcyclists are nearly 5 times more likely to be injured and 29 times more likely to be killed in a crash than car or truck occupants.[i] More than half (54 percent) of fatal motorcycle crashes result from a collision with a car or truck.[ii] From 2015 to 2016, Texas motorcycle fatalities increased from 464 to 493 (6 percent), and crashes resulting in seriously injured motorcyclists increased from 1,902 to 2,006 (5 percent). The summer months have the highest incidences of motorcycle crashes.[iii] TxDOT’s “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign reminds drivers to:

  • Always use turn signals.
  • Give motorcycles plenty of space and don’t follow too closely.
  • Check mirrors before changing lanes.
  • Give motorcyclists a full lane.

This year’s “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign will conduct outreach events inviting visitors to participate in activities that highlight motorcycle safety. Campaign tour stops are:

    • April 27 – Austin (statewide launch)
    • April 29 – San Antonio
    • April 30 – Houston
    • May 6 – Waco
    • May 18 – El Paso
    • May 27 – Dallas

To learn more about the campaign, visit LookTwiceTexas.com or visit TxDOT’s website at txdot.gov. You can also follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/TxDOT and on Twitter at twitter.com/txdot.

ksst ksstradio.com

Author: Staff Reporter

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