News Channel Six recently reported on injury-causing and fatal motorcycle crashes in Wichita Falls over the past 12 months. At least three motorcycle fatalities have occurred in the city this year, and all three deaths have something in common. The riders were not wearing helmets at the time of their crashes. In Texas, riders under the age of 21 are required to wear helmets, but riders over the age of 21 can choose to ride unprotected. Although the State of Texas requires motorcycle riders to take a foundation safety course, where helmet use is heavily emphasized, many riders across the state still choose to ride without a helmet.
Motorcycle Crash Facts
- In 2013, 4,668 motorcyclists were killed in crashes.
- An estimated 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in crashes in 2013.
- Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 26 times more frequently than passenger car occupant fatalities in 2013 crashes.
- Motorcycle helmets saved an estimated 1,630 lives in 2013.
- In states without universal helmet laws, 59 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2013 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 8 percent in states with universal helmet laws.
Improving Rider Safety in Texoma
Riders in Texoma and across the nation are encouraged to increase their personal safety through the use of protective gear. Helmets, gloves, boots, jackets and safety vests are all great ways to reduce your chances of potentially catastrophic or fatal injuries in the event of a crash. When shopping for helmets, it’s also important to choose a safety-rated helmet with full jaw and facial coverage. Try to avoid the skullcap style, which doesn’t offer much protection to vulnerable facial and jaw bones in the event of a crash.
Share The Road in Wichita Falls
Wearing a helmet and practicing safe riding techniques aren’t the only ways to keep motorcyclists safe in Wichita Falls. Riders are counting on other drivers to Share the Road and lookout for them. Whether you’re getting ready to make a left turn at an intersection or changing lanes on the highway, remember to check your mirrors and blind spots and always be on the lookout for motorcycle riders.
If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident due to somebody else’s dangerous or negligent driving, contact the skilled team at the Altman Legal Group at 940-761-4000 for a free case consultation.