Motorcycle riders are in a unique position on the road in that they are exposed to dangers that are not met by automobile drivers and other motorists. For they are less stable and less visible than other vehicles on the road. As a result, motorcyclists must be aware of the risks and remedies available if they are involved in a traffic accident.
Statistics
- Motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in a collision than someone riding in a passenger car and 5 times as likely to be injured.
- In two-thirds of motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle, the driver of the other vehicle violated the motorcyclist’s right of way and cause the accident.
- The fatality rate for motorcycle accidents has more than doubled since 1999.
Problems Unique to Motorcyclists
- Visual Recognition: Motorcyclists are smaller visual targets which are often times obscured by other vehicles, road, and weather conditions. 70 percent of motorcycle vs. vehicle collisions occur at intersections.
- Road Hazards: Potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris, ruts, uneven pavement, and railroad tracks can all be minor irritations for a car, but a major hazard to motorcycles.
- Speed Accidents: The front of a motorcycle can become very unstable and begin to shake or wobble at high speeds. This may be due to a misalignment of the front and rear tires. If this is the cause of an accident, the motorcycle manufacturer may be held responsible for injuries.
- Riding Skills and Familiarity: It requires more skill and coordination to operate a motorcycle versus a car. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by a rider’s lack of basic riding skills or failure to appreciate the inherent operating characteristics and limitations of the motorcycle.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
- Always wear a helmet
- Don’t buy more bike than you can handle: Buy a bike that fits you. When seated, you should easily be able to rest both feet flat on the ground without having to tiptoe and handlebars should be easy to reach.
- Invest in antilock brakes: Antilock brakes are a proven lifesaver. Motorcycles equipped with antilock brakes are 37 percent less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without them.
- Hone your skills: Take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation riding course in your area. These courses range from free to about $350.
- Wear the right gear: For maximum protection, wear leather or reinforced jacket, gloves, full pants, and over-the-ankle footwear, even in summer. You need to wear gear that will protect you from wind chill, flying bugs and debris.
- Be defensive: Be extra alert, keep an eye out for cars suddenly changing lanes, avoid people who are texting and driving, and don’t tailgate so you have plenty of time to react.
- Avoid adverse weather conditions: Rain cuts your visibility and reduces your tires’ grip on the road. If you have to ride in the wind, be proactive in anticipating the potential push from the side by moving to the side of the lane the wind is coming from.
- Watch for road hazards: A motorcycle has less contact with the pavement than a car. Because of this, it’s important to watch for sand, wet leaves, pebbles, bumps, potholes and other hazards that may cause your bike to slide unexpectedly.
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