Texas Motorcycle Rally Safety: Reducing Bike Accidents Without Compromising Good Times

Galveston, Texas welcomed an estimated 500,000 motorcycle riders this November for its annual Lone Star Motorcycle Rally. While the vast majority of bikers had a fun and safe weekend, three people were killed and three people were seriously injured in five separate accidents over the three-day rally.

How can we make motorcycle rallies in Texas even safer – for both riders and for community members? Here are a few tips:

• Be ready for congestion and traffic. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of bikers into a city means dealing with significant increases in traffic. To prevent accidents, try not to follow other vehicles too closely and be prepared for sudden stops.
• Be on the lookout for drunk drivers. While it is possible to drink responsibly at a bike rally, you should be very aware of drunk driving – especially since studies have shown that even a beer or two can be dangerous for those on motorcycles. Just because you are at a bike rally does not mean you should ride home from the bar.
• Be visible. Many motorcycle rally accidents take place because other cars aren’t on the lookout for motorcycles. Wear bright colors and reflectors at night. Use your headlight – and don’t hesitate to use your horn if you believe someone doesn’t see you coming.
• Shrug off peer pressure. Unfortunately, riders are more likely to speed or drive recklessly at a bike rally – and are less likely to wear their helmet. In some cases, this is because they see other riders acting similarly. Don’t forget your usual safety regiments just because others are less cautious.

Texas bike rallies can be extremely enjoyable – and even for those who aren’t bikers, they can be very good for the local economy. Taking a few extra safety measures during these bike rallies can save lives and prevent injury.

Have you or a loved one been injured in a Galveston motorcycle accident? Contact the Texas injury attorneys at Vujasinovic & Beckcom today to speak with a lawyer about your case.