If you ride a motorcycle in Texas, you know just how exhilarating, convenient, and cost-effective it can be to cruise the open road on your bike. But you also probably know that with that freedom comes inherent risk, especially when riding in the summer.
In a single recent year, 5,579 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents throughout the U.S, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That year, motorcyclists were roughly four times more likely to be injured and 28 times more likely to die in traffic accidents than vehicle occupants. Additionally, 61 percent of motorcyclist fatalities that year occurred during the summer months of May through September, reaching their peak during August, NHTSA reports.
In light of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, our team at Goldenzweig Law Group, PLLC, will discuss the factors that increase the risk of motorcycle accidents during the summer and how to stay safe.
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Increase During The Summer?
Here are some of the top reasons why motorcycle accidents tend to happen more frequently during the summer:
- More motorcycles on the road – Many motorcycle enthusiasts take advantage of the sunny weather and long days that make up the summer season. Unfortunately, this means motorcycle traffic increases along with the temperature, resulting in more congestion and a higher risk of traffic accidents.
- Increased rates of tourist traffic – Between the Johnson Space Center, Six Flags, and hundreds of miles of coastline, Texas attracts plenty of tourist traffic come summertime. But more tourist traffic means more drivers making abrupt lane changes or stops because they’re unfamiliar with local roads, so beware.
- Summer break for teen drivers – When school is out, countless young, inexperienced high school and college-age drivers take to the streets and highways. Drivers with limited experience are likelier to make reckless maneuvers, commit basic driving errors, and cause accidents.
- Seasonal construction projects – Many large construction and maintenance projects get underway during the summer, so work zones are commonplace on many Houston highways. These zones increase congestion and driver frustration, both of which can contribute to preventable motorcycle accidents.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Even the most conscientious riders can fall victim to devastating crashes resulting from the actions of careless or distracted drivers. Here are some common injuries that occur as a result of Houston motorcycle accidents:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Facial injuries and dental trauma
- Scarring and permanent disfigurement
- Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
- Partial or total paralysis
- Shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, and hand injuries
- Dislocated or broken bones
- Traumatic amputation and loss of limbs
- Bruises, burns, lacerations, and puncture wounds
- Abdominal injuries and internal bleeding
- Hip, leg, knee, ankle, and foot injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Other psychological and emotional injuries
- Wrongful death
How To Stay Safe This Summer In Houston
To avoid becoming a victim of the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” which begin Memorial Day weekend and end after Labor Day weekend, here are some simple safety tips to stay safe as a motorcyclist in Houston this summer:
- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet every time you ride.
- Observe all traffic laws, signal devices, and speed limits.
- Wear bright or reflective safety gear to keep yourself visible.
- Keep your motorcycle well-maintained and in good condition.
- Put your phone away and avoid distractions while you ride.
- Avoid riding if you’ve been drinking or taking any drugs.
- Complete a motorcycle safety education course.
Contact Our Experienced Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today!
Remaining careful and vigilant of the risks can help prevent motorcycle accidents, but some collisions can’t be avoided. If you have been injured in a Houston motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact the dedicated and compassionate attorneys of Goldenzweig Law Group, PLLC, to learn more about your legal options in a free initial consultation.
