Motorcycles: How Dangerous Are They Really?

Many people consider riding to be their favourite activity, yet very few people do it regularly. This appears to be due in part to the perceived danger associated with riding a motorcycle. However, is this activity as dangerous as people make it out to be? To answer this question, people need to look at facts and figures rather than the opinions of others. Furthermore, they need to learn how to keep themselves safe while out on the open road.

People often lose focus and let their brains wander when they are behind the wheel of a car. They cannot do this when riding a motorcycle. In fact, riders will tell you that operating a motorcycle is physically and mentally draining when compared to operating a vehicle with four wheels. Although it doesn’t require the skill, brainpower, and physical endurance required of race car drivers, it is taxing. Riding involves more variables and increased opportunities for errors. If something goes wrong when you are riding a motorcycle, the consequences can be devastating.

While there is no way to remove the risks of riding completely, people can reduce them. If used irresponsibly, motorcycles are very dangerous. When used correctly by a trained rider, a motorcycle accident might still happen. Nevertheless, the right training and responsible use of the bike significantly decrease the risk. Objectively, how dangerous are bikes?

The Facts

According to the NHTSA, 4,976 people lost their lives in 2015 while riding a motorcycle. This represented an 8.3 percent increase from the previous year which saw 4,594 deaths. However, at that time, 8.6 million motorcycles were on the road. This means a rider that year had a 1 in 1,728 chance of losing their life. Nevertheless, people need to examine other statistics to get an accurate picture of the dangers associated with riding a motorcycle.

When compared to the fatality rate for occupants in a passenger car in 2014 to the fatality rate for motorcycle riders, it’s easy to see why many people consider motorcycles to be dangerous. The fatality rate for riders was six to seven times higher. In addition, they were 27 times more likely to die than occupants in a passenger car when looking at the number of vehicle miles traveled and almost five times as likely to suffer an injury.

The NHTSA reports 33 percent of riders killed in 2015 died as a direct result of speeding. Forty percent of riders who lost their lives that year didn’t have a helmet on when they crashed. Certain riders were driving while intoxicated, and they made up a significant number of those killed while on their bike. These statistics show a person can reduce their risk of injury or fatality when operating a bike.

Risk Factors

Riders cannot avoid certain riding hazards, such as bad drivers and gravel. However, riders must remain alert at all times to minimise their risks. Oil and salt are two risks to watch for. All roads collect oil over time. When it rains, these oils come out and make the road surface slippery. Salt during the winter months minimises the freezing of the roads but negatively affects traction at the same time. People should never ride when they are tired, and drivers must use eyewear to protect against sunlight and glare.

Many accidents happen when groups ride together. For instance, a rider might mimic the actions of the rider in front of them. They may also push themselves beyond their skill level to keep up with others. This often leads to accidents.

Men and women need to choose a bike that is within their skill level. The United States doesn’t put limitations on the type of bike a person can ride once they get their motorcycle permit. However, other countries, such as the UK, put restrictions on which bikes a person can ride based on their skill level.

Other vehicles pose a risk to riders. Always ride under the assumption that other drivers cannot see you. It’s better to be safe than right when on a bike. Regardless of who is at fault for the accident, the rider suffers the consequences.

Minimising the Danger

Always wear the correct protective gear when riding, such as hi-viz gear to increase visibility on the road. Get the proper training before you ever get on a bike and invest in a set of good tires. In addition, consider making upgrades to the bike to improve its safety. For example, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted a study in 2013 which found that an anti-locking braking system on a bike reduces the risk of a fatal accident by 31 percent. Finally, maintain the bike properly at all times.

The Role of the Rider

Each rider must determine how much risk they will take on. Bikers cannot avoid accidents at all times. For this reason, some men and women limit their riding to the track or off-road. Others, however, find they will accept any level of risk as long as they can keep riding. This includes individuals involved in multiple accidents when riding. They feel the pleasure of riding outweighs the risks.

Furthermore, some people ride for years or decades and never have an accident. These individuals likely use the proper gear, have undergone training to increase their safety on the road, and pay attention when they are out on the road. If you do the same, you reduce your risk of accidents as well.

Keep in mind every activity comes with some level of risk. People have an accident simply taking a shower in their home or stepping outside to go to the mailbox. An accident can happen when a person goes grocery shopping to get food as well. As life is full of hidden hazards, a person must determine what they feel comfortable with. If you find you don’t feel safe riding a motorcycle, then please don’t ride. A worried rider is a danger to themselves and others. Find different ways to enjoy life and leave the riding to others. For those who love the feel of the wind on their face as they travel the open ride on a bike, engage in this activity as often as possible. Your life will be better as a result.