Motorcycle Safety

According to the US Highway Safety Authority,

some 20.9 cars out of 100,000 ended up in

fatal crashes (2002 statistics). The rate for

motorcycle deaths is 66.7 per 100,000 bikes

on the road. In other words, motorcycle riders

are 209% more likely to be in a fatal crash

than car drivers. Check out these additional

statistics regarding motorcycle accidents:

* An estimated 132,000 motorcyclists have died in traffic crashes since the Highway Safety and National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.
* Only about 2% of all registered vehicles in the U.S. are motorcycles, yet motorcyclists are about 34 times more
likely to die from an accident than passenger car occupants.

That is why we are providing this important information to help you learn about techniques and safety products that can help motorcyclists to save their life.

Be visible:
• Motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles.
• Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night.
• Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
• Do not drive in the blind spots of cars and trucks.
• Flash your brake light when slowing down and before stopping.
• If you believe a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn.

Dress for safety:
• Wear a quality, light-colored helmet and eye protection.
• Wear bright clothing.
• Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing.
• Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots and gloves.

Apply effective mental strategies:
• Constantly search the road for changing conditions.
• Allow plenty of space and time to react to road conditions.
• Use proper lane positioning to be seen, and ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible.
• Always watch for turning vehicles.
• Signal your next move far in advance.
• Do not weave between lanes.
• Always be extra cautious; pretend you’re invisible to other motorists.
• Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Follow the rules of the road, and maintain proper speeds.

Know your bike and how to use it:
• Take a formal motorcycle training course, and enroll in a refresher course every few years.
• Develop your riding skills before going into heavy traffic, highways or challenging road conditions. Be comfortable operating your motorcycle in rain, rough roads, ice and snow and other dangerous situations before riding in these conditions during peak driving times or on a highway.


(Source: www.msf-usa.org)