Maintaining Roadway Safety

As gas prices continue to increase, so does the need for some motorists to find other means of transportation. This need has given rise to one of the more dangerous hobbies: motorcycle riding. Whether or not the sun is shining and regardless of the temperature, motorcycle riders or “un-caged” drivers can be found out riding their prized possession. Unfortunately, the Emergency Department at Texas Health Fort Worth generally encounters a number of individuals who fall victim to injuries sustained while riding out on local streets and highways. Many of the injuries can be avoided by implementing a few preventative measures.
Most people can tell you, “I heard the bike”, and can mentally imagine the bike, usually due to the distinctive and discernable sound of these vehicles. Even with the audible noises, sadly, the rider and bike are never actually seen until after an accident has occurred, in a usually less than recognizable state. Statistics tell us that hearing simply isn’t enough. Some of the worst crashes have occurred because the opposing driver simply did not have sight of the motorcyclist.
The simplest and most cost efficient thing any rider can do to help prevent an accident is to add reflective devices and wear reflective clothing. They can help increase rider visibility. State law requires all motorcycle bikes to maintain an active, lit headlight while the ignition is on. This helps to increase motorcycle visibility by attracting additional attention.
Each driver, whether a two or four wheeled vehicle, has the same responsibility: ensuring roadway safety. Simple and inexpensive devices and gadgets can help improve visibility and audibility, which can help to decrease the occurrence of an incident. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, nearly two-thirds of vehicle vs. motorcycle accidents are caused, not by the motorcyclist, but by the driver. The driver either does not see the oncoming motorcyclist at all or does not see the motorcyclist in time to avoid an accident.
One summer day in 2010, a motorcycle collision and lack of efficient safety and protective devices put my life at risk. As a motorcycle enthusiast, it is important that I do my part to help others understand the importance of driver safety.

Tim Farris
Nursing Student