Texas Motorcycle Fatality Reinforces The Importance Of Road Safety For All
An arrest recently made in a Texas motorcycle fatality reminds us of the dangers that motorcyclists and other drivers face daily. It is a stark reminder to share the road and always look twice, especially when it comes to motorcycle riders.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), nearly 600 motorcyclists were killed in crashes last year, with more than 2400 riders being injured.
Arrest Made In Texas Motorcycle Fatality
On July 6th, 2023, motorcycle rider Nathaniel Ralph Wayne of Baird lost his life after being hit by another driver and left to die in the middle of the street in Abilene, Texas.
The report states that a man was found by first responders lying in the street near Old Anson Road and Lowden. The man, later identified as Wayne died from his injuries as the crash was investigated.
According to KTXS, Brenda Wise was arrested by the Abilene Police Department in connection to the death of Nathaniel Ralph Wayne. Taylor County Jail records show Wise was arrested and booked on May 10th, 2024.
While I won't speculate on exactly what happened in this case, one thing is for sure; another motorcyclist has lost their life at the hands of another Texas driver. This has to stop.
Motorcycle Fatalities On The Rise
According to TxDOT, the number of motorcyclists killed in 2023 went up by 7% with intersection fatal crashes rising by 21%.
It can be hard to judge the distance, size and speed of a motorcycle, which is why we need to pay extra attention when sharing the road,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “We want everyone to get home safe, and that means drivers should be on the lookout for motorcycles and give them adequate space, especially when turning.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month so now is the perfect time to learn and practice how to help stop this rising trend.
With the warmer temperatures, there will be more riders on the road. So think about that as you travel the beautiful Texas landscape. Remember: share the road. Look twice. Nobody deserves to lose a loved one because of someone else's poor decision.
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Gallery Credit: Cindy Campbell