EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is urging drivers to prioritize motorcycle safety as National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month begins in May.
According to TXDOT, El Paso ranks sixth in Texas for motorcycle crashes, with 751 incidents reported from 2022 to 2024.
TxDOT’s Lauren Macias-Cervantes emphasized that motorcycle visibility is critical, especially during warmer months when more riders are on the road. “Unfortunately, we are one of the cities in the state with the highest number of motorcycle fatalities,” she said.
In Texas, motorcycle crashes have resulted in the deaths of 2,751 riders in the past five years. Key contributing factors include speed, driver inattention, and failure to yield, with most crashes occurring in county areas along 35-45 mph zones.
Major high-risk areas in El Paso include IH 10 near the Spaghetti Bowl and US 54 between Fred Wilson and BU54A Dyer, with a majority of incidents occurring on weekends during evening peak hours from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
As of September 1, 2023, House Bill 4122 prohibits lane splitting in Texas, making it illegal for motorcycles to pass between lanes, although two motorcycles can ride side-by-side.
TxDOT advises drivers to watch for motorcycles, look twice before turning, and avoid tailgating. Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear helmets, ride defensively, and use headlights.
The “Look Twice” TxDOT campaign, featuring a mobile exhibit and virtual reality experience, will be at the El Paso Chihuahuas game on Thursday, highlighting motorcycle safety challenges.