Texas Accident & Injury News
Do you know what to do if you lose control of your motorcycle?
Motorcyclist Dies After Slamming Into a Light Pole in Late-Night Accident
According to a KSAT News report, a young man was killed after crashing his motorcycle late last night.
Police reported the accident happened at around 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday, June 4th, near the intersection of Steubing Parkway and Katma Lane, not too far away from De Zavala and Babcock. A man in his 20s lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a light pole for unknown reasons. He was pronounced dead at the scene when EMS arrived, and it was not made clear if he was wearing a helmet at the time. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. The investigation into the accident is ongoing.
Did You Know?
Fatal motorcycle accidents in Texas increased 43% in five years from 2018 to 2023, according to San Antonio Express-News.
What to Do If You Lose Control of Your Motorcycle in San Antonio
One of the most terrifying experiences you will face as a motorcyclist is losing control.
There are many things that are out of a motorcyclist’s control that can cause them to crash. Some of those things are more common in San Antonio in recent years, such as:
- Reckless Driving,
- Sudden Changes in Road Grade,
- Construction Debris,
- And Heavy Traffic.
With motorcycle accidents on the rise and conditions worsening across the city, it’s imperative that you know what to do in the event you lose control of your motorcycle.
Steps to Take If You Lose Control of Your Motorcycle
If you feel yourself starting to skid and want to avoid a total crash, follow these tips:
- Stay Calm — Panicking will increase your risk of crashing. You will understandably feel a rush of adrenaline but try to take a breath and steady your emotions.
- Eyes Forward — Look where it is you want to end up, not at the danger ahead (i.e., a tree, pole, or oncoming vehicle).
- Steer Into Your Skid — Just like when driving a car, steering into a skid will help your tires regain traction.
- Ease Into the Brake — It will feel shuddery, but gently engage your brake without using the clutch. Then, shift into lower gear to slow down.
- Straighten Up — Adjust your body weight to the back tire as much as possible.
Success! You have learned how to control a motorcycle skid. You don’t necessarily need to come to a complete stop, but if you do, make sure it’s never in the middle of traffic. Remember to always call 9-1-1 if you or anyone else is hurt in a motorcycle accident.
What If Someone Else Caused Me to Lose Control?
Reckless drivers and construction hazards can and do contribute to loss of control motorcycle accidents in San Antonio. When negligence causes your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to substantial compensation for your injuries.
Always call your insurance ASAP to report the accident, regardless of whose fault it was. You should also fully cooperate with the police at all times. However, you should never admit fault or sign any waivers until you have spoken to a motorcycle accident attorney.
If you believe your loss of control motorcycle accident was not your fault, or if you have questions about your motorcycle accident, call Carabin Shaw for a free case evaluation at 800-862-1260. We look forward to serving you.
Contacting a Carabin Shaw attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.
²San Antonio Express-News Data
See Also: Common Reasons Motorcyclists Skip the Helmet and Why Should Always Wear One