Motorcycles are fun and fuel efficient. That’s not news to anyone who’s ridden one. But neither is the fact that they’re also more dangerous than a car. Here are some sobering national statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for 2013:
42% of all motorcycle deaths occurred in single-vehicle crashes;
In 40% of motorcycle single-vehicle fatality crashes the motorcycle rider had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above 0.08%;
48% of motorcycle fatalities involved speeding;
75% of fatalities were not wearing a helmet in States with no mandatory helmet law; 56% of fatalities were not wearing a helmet in States with a partial law (ie..under 18); 6% of fatalities were not wearing a helmet in States with a universal helmet law (like Washington).
Still, many enthusiasts enjoy a lifetime of riding with out injury. The key to optimizing your odds is to be prepared and to avoid risks. Below are some tips to help you stay safe on two wheels.
Don’t buy more bike than you can handle. When shopping for a bike, start with one that fits you. Choose a model that’s easy for you to get on and off the center stand; if it feels too heavy, it probably is.
Invest in antilock brakes. Antilock brakes are a proven lifesaver. IIHS data shows that motorcycles equipped with ABS brakes were 37% less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without it.
Hone your skills. ESC would not be doing our job if we did not stress the importance of finding and taking a riding course in your area. That is absolutely critical. These courses can teach you the basics, as well as advanced techniques such as how to perform evasive emergency maneuvers. These courses may make you eligible for an insurance discount and they may also save your life.
Use your head. Yes, helmets are an emotional topic for some riders – there are groups that try every year to remove Washington’s universal helmet law. Don’t listen to them. The facts show the risk. When Texas and Arkansas repealed their helmet laws, they saw a 31% and 21% increase in motorcycle fatalities, respectively. Helmets save lives! In our opinion, a full-face helmet that’s approved by the Department of Transportation is the best choice. (Look for a DOT certification sticker on the helmet.)
Wear the right gear. Instead of light clothing, you want gear that will protect you from wind chill, flying bugs and debris, and, yes, road rash if you should slide out. You’ll also want effective eye protection; don’t rely on eyeglasses or a bike’s windscreen – use a helmet visor or goggles. Keep in mind that car drivers who have hit a motorcycle rider often say they just didn’t see them, so you may want to choose gear in bright colors.
Be defensive. You aren’t the only one on the road – and you have the least amount of protection. You need to be extra alert, especially in this age of epidemic phone use and texting behind the wheel. Keep an eye out for cars making sudden movements. Don’t tailgate – keep a safe following distance to ensure you have enough stopping distance and so you have time to react to obstacles in the road.
Eliminating these foreseeable risks is the first major step in dramatically reducing your risks. The weather of late has been great for riding and learning and we wish you all a safe riding season. Be safe and enjoy! Check out courses at
evergreenmotorcycletraining.org or feel free to contact me, Monty E. Lish, Motorcycle Program Manager, S/TEP Program Mananager, Evergreen Safety Council.
Contributed by Monty E. Lish, Motorcycle and S/TEP Program Mananager, Evergreen Safety Council
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