As spring brings more people outdoors across Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation is reminding drivers in Lubbock to slow down and watch for those most at risk on the road.
According to TxDOT, more than 1 in 5 traffic deaths in Texas involve a pedestrian or bicyclist. In 2024 alone, 852 pedestrians and cyclists were killed statewide, with thousands more injured in over 8,800 crashes.
So far in 2025, the trend continues. There have already been nearly 1,900 crashes involving pedestrians and bicyclists across Texas, resulting in 186 deaths.
Read More: How Minor Driving Mistakes Can Lead To Road Rage Incidents
Why This Matters In Lubbock
Locally, Lubbock continues to see serious crashes each year, including those involving pedestrians. With busy roads like Loop 289 and growing traffic across the city, the risk increases as more people walk, bike, and drive at the same time.
TxDOT says most of these crashes are preventable and often come down to simple mistakes like failing to yield, speeding, or not paying attention.
Read More: Do You Follow the Lubbock Traffic Beat?
Motorcyclists Face Similar Risks
Motorcyclists are also considered vulnerable road users and face many of the same dangers as pedestrians and cyclists.
Across Texas, hundreds of motorcyclists are killed every year, often in crashes involving another vehicle. In many cases, drivers simply do not see the rider or misjudge their speed.
In Lubbock County, motorcycle crashes have also been on the rise, highlighting the need for extra awareness. Riders have little protection, which means even a minor collision can turn deadly.
How To Stay Safe
TxDOT’s “Drive like a Texan” campaign encourages everyone to take responsibility on the road.
Drivers should yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, give cyclists space, check carefully before turning, and follow speed limits.
Pedestrians are urged to use crosswalks and stay visible, while cyclists should ride with traffic, obey signals, and use lights at night.
Motorcyclists should wear helmets, stay visible, and assume drivers may not see them.
The Bottom Line
Whether you are driving, walking, biking, or riding, safety depends on everyone paying attention.
With more people out on the roads this time of year, one extra second of awareness could save a life.
Cha-Ching! Every Lubbock Lotto Winner Who Won A Million Or More According to a database kept by data.texas.gov, Lubbock County has had 12 winners take home a million dollars or more since the Texas Lottery began in November 1992. The highest prize so far is over 17 million dollars!
Gallery Credit: Renee Raven