What began in heartbreak has become a mission of hope, as Cori Kidwell now vows to spare others the pain she carries.
WHITEHOUSE, Texas — A tragic motorcycle crash in East Texas has sparked a growing push for change — and a grieving mother is leading the charge.
Nearly three months after losing her 19-year-old son Clark Prather in a crash, a Whitehouse mother is pushing for better driver awareness and motorcycle safety to help prevent future tragedies.
“It’s like a part of you was just all of a sudden, just like half your heart’s gone,” Cori Kidwell, Prather’s mother, said.
Prather died at the scene of the crash. Kidwell first learned about the accident through a post on social media.
“It was a shock, and you’re praying that it’s not them at the time,” she said.
Now, nearly three months later, Kidwell and loved ones have launched a petition pushing for improved vehicle and GPS systems for driver awareness and the safety of motorcyclists.
“Some of these accidents are just senseless and don’t need to happen anymore,” Kidwell said.
According to TXDOT spokesperson Jeff Williford, last year alone there were nearly 300 motorcycle crashes in East Texas. Twenty-six of them were deadly.
“We always say that one fatality is too many. And again, motorcyclists are an important part of our roadways and transportation,” Williford said.
Each spring, TxDOT launches its “Share the Road” campaign, urging drivers to look twice for motorcyclists.
“We try to get that message out, not just during our campaign in the spring, but every part of the year,” he said. “Be safe and drive smart. Always check your surroundings, make sure that you’re sharing the road with our most vulnerable out there.”
With help from his three brothers and loved ones, Prather’s family has gathered nearly 1,000 signatures on their petition.
“I feel him when we go out and we spread the word,” Kidwell said. “I can feel his spirit with us, knowing that he is helping us and spreading the word to get it out for other people to be safe.”
What began in heartbreak has become a mission of hope, as Kidwell now vows to spare others the pain she carries.
“If I can help another mom not have to go through what we went through by losing their son or their loved one, then it’s worth it to me,” she said.
Nicknamed “Superman” for his heart, strength and instinct to help others, Prather’s legacy continues through efforts to raise awareness and improve motorcycle safety.
To find the petition, click the link here.
