• 21
  • May
    2010

As spring becomes summer, we begin to see more motorcycles on our roadways. North Carolina's mild climate makes it an ideal place to enjoy motorcycles, but the enjoyment must also be tempered with caution. Although motorcycles represent only 2 percent of registered motor vehicles in North Carolina, they generally account for more than 10 percent of traffic fatalities, including more than 150 in both 2008 and 2009.

Because it is worthwhile to think about safety as we start the summer driving season, this is the ideal time to talk about some of the dangers of motorcycle riding and about some things that motorcyclists, and other drivers, can do to help avoid accidents.

According to the most recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,290 motorcyclists were killed and as many as 96,000 injured in 2008. Of the North Carolina fatalities, 28% had a blood-alcohol concentration of .08 or higher, just under the national average of 30%.

While motorcycle riding itself will always retain a certain degree of danger, there are a number of things that both motorcyclists and other drives can do to help avoid motorcycle-related accidents. The following are just a few tips that could help avoid accidents and save lives.

Tips for Motorcyclists

  • Always wear a helmet. Even though a helmet won't prevent all injuries, they have been shown to dramatically lower the risk of suffering a traumatic brain injury.
  • Wear visible, bright or reflective clothing. Lack of visibility is one of the main causes of accidents, and even if another driver should be able to see you, it is better stand out and ensure they notice you.
  • Practice braking. Many accidents occur when a motorcyclist is forced to brake quickly. Being prepared may help avoid serious injuries.
  • Avoid alcohol use while riding. As the statistics above show, alcohol use is very common factor in motorcycle accidents.

Tips for Other Drivers

  • Share the road. A motorcyclist has every right to road that another car would have.
  • Check your blind spot. A motorcyclist can easily be hidden from view.
  • Don't follow too close. Motorcycle riders can suffer severe injuries in slow speed crashes. What might be a minor fender bender between two cars could seriously injure a motorcyclist.

Related Resources:

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (NCDOT)