Motorcycles might be considered by some as inherently dangerous vehicles. Compared to a car or truck, the rider has almost no protection from even the slightest collision. While an automobile has a roof, doors, windshield, seat belts, airbags and a steel structure surrounding it, a motorcycle has open air and an unforgiving road surface.
Motorcycles compensate for this inequity by being more maneuverable to avoid accidents by swerving out of harm's way. While riders may try to make sudden moves, often these accidents happen before they have time to react. Nearly 80 percent of all motorcycle accidents result in injuries or death compared to just 20 percent for automobiles. The odds are not in a rider's favor whenever he or she ventures out on the road.
Motorcycles can be safely driven if the rider follows some basic assumptions. For example, riders must assume that other motorists cannot see them, and must be prepared to be cut-off by other motorists. Motorcyclists need to always drive defensively by anticipating any possible confrontations with automobiles and by not riding in a driver's blind spot.
Riding in inclement weather can be hazardous to riders. Roadways are more slippery during and immediately after rainfall, so riders should wait about 30 minutes before riding after the rain stops to minimize motorcycle accident risks.
Protective clothing and a full helmet are essential. Accessories include leather gloves, leather boots, brightly colored upper-body clothing and other protective gear that can protect a rider from severe abrasions in case of a fall.
Motorcycle accidents can be avoided by riders not tailgating and by being particularly cautious at intersections, where 70 percent of motorcycle-passenger vehicle accidents occur. In residential areas, riders must be aware of vehicles exiting driveways, and also be on the lookout for pedestrians or bicyclists.
Riders should also only be on motorcycles on which they feel comfortable and familiar with handling. Finally, they should consider taking a motorcycle safety or refresher course in which they can learn cornering, stopping and other techniques on how to ride safely and avoid accidents. Most of all, riders need to be courteous to other motorists and maintain a safe speed at all times.
