Sharing the Road with Motorcycle Riders

DPS has listed May as "Motorcycle Awareness Month." Texas Department of Transportation Spokesperson Amy Rodriguez says every day someone dies in a motorcycle accident across the state.

Here are some safety tips for motorcycle riders, all riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet when operating a bike. Riders over 21 may ride without a helmet only if they have completed a safety course or are covered by an applicable insurance plan..

Riders should also wear other protective gear, it is important that they turn on their headlights and ride defensively. Riders should avoid the center of the lane where debris and oil build up.

Motorist must also respect motorcycle riders on the road. Drivers should look twice for motorcyclists at intersections, entering highways and whenever turning or changing lane. They should always maintain a safe following distance when passing a motorcyclist, move to the other lane and allow a full lane for the motorcycle rider.