So, how often do motorcycle crashes happen? And what can you do to prevent them?
How Many Motorcycle Crashes Happen?
According to the most recent data, just under 83,000 motorcycle accidents resulted in injury in 2020, marking a two percent decrease from the year before. These numbers have remained relatively steady over the years, only slightly rising and falling. Around 5,580 motorcyclists were killed during that same year, accounting for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities.
Many of these accidents were caused by driving under the influence. Motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes had a higher percentage of alcohol impairment than drivers of other vehicles. Others were injured after trying to ride a bike without a license.
How to Prevent Motorcycle Crashes
The best way to avoid getting into a motorcycle crash is to wear the proper safety gear when driving or riding as a passenger. You should wear long pants, a long sleeve shirt, a jacket, boots, gloves and a full-face or half-face helmet to protect your head. Use goggles when using a half-face helmet or skull cap to shield your eyes from dirt and debris.
You might be tempted to reach for your phone while riding your motorcycle, but under no circumstances should people text and drive. Many accidents occur when drivers are not paying attention. This is why it is crucial to use a helmet communication device to wirelessly connect to your phone or GPS while riding. Just speak into one of Cardo’s receivers to access all the features you need to communicate. The device will automatically reconnect when you are in range of your companions, so you don’t have to keep resetting the device. If you need to see the screen, mount your phone or GPS on or near the handlebars to keep it in view. Keep your hands on the handlebars and your eyes on the road at all times to avoid getting into a crash.
Make sure the headset is compatible with your helmet. It should clip onto the side easily without obstructing your view. If you are using a half-face helmet or skull cap, use a half-face Bluetooth motorcycle headset instead to keep the receiver in range.
Use a Half-Helmet Motorcycle Bluetooth Headset with a Skull Cap
You should also be fully trained on how to ride with a valid license before trying to operate the vehicle. Never drive your motorcycle while you are over the legal drinking limit. Never ride when using marijuana and other drugs, including prescription medications, that can impair your judgment.
Avoid riding during dangerous conditions. It’s never safe to ride when there is snow or ice on the ground. Motorcycles don’t provide as much traction as cars, and you won’t have anything to fall back on if you fall. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, pull over and wait for the storm to pass before continuing onto your destination.
Just because motorcyclists account for more than their fair share of accidents on the road, you don’t have to risk your health and safety when you ride. Use these tips to stay safe wherever the journey takes you.
