ODESSA, Texas —
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2023 the number of motorcycle traffic crashes in the Odessa District, which includes Midland, Ector and 10 other counties, totaled 163.
These crashes resulted in 12 bikers' deaths and 44 more being seriously injured.
TXDOT says that both motorcyclists and drivers have a responsibility to be mindful of the other and do what they can to avoid any mishaps while on the road.
“When you're on a motorcycle, you're less likely to be seen, so people have to look twice, even three times to see if there's someone in their blind spot. If there's a motorcycle there, when you see a motorcycle, you want to make sure to give them enough space to maneuver, to make changes, to slow down, speed up as you know, the way other travelers would do,” said Maryann Cedillo, public information officer for the TXDOT Odessa District.
It's important for both motorcyclists and drivers to be extra alert while on the road and to check their blind spots before changing lanes, as well as keep a safe following distance.
TXDOT also says to pay special attention at intersections since more than a third of all motorcycle fatalities happen at roadway intersections.
And if you’re on a motorcycle, don’t forget to wear protective gear.
“When you're on a motorcycle, you're less covered by machinery. So, when you're in a car, you're at least protected by your seat belt, you're protected by lots of different things. When you're on a motorcycle, you have less of those things to really take care of you, you have to have your helmet, your leathers on. Those kinds of things to help you when something does happen,” Cedillo continued.
And even if you consider yourself a safe driver or motorcyclist and follow all the rules on the road, you shouldn’t become complacent and always expect the same from others.
“You've heard this from your parents growing up when you were learning to drive, to be a defensive driver and not an offensive driver, and that means you have to watch out for others. You can be the safest driver possible, and if someone else is not being a safe driver or a good motorist, then something could happen,” Cedillo added.
Cedillo also says for everyone to obey the posted speed limits and drive according to road conditions.