Whether you are a motorist or a motorcyclist, everyone should ‘Share the Road’ during May’s Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s goal is to reduce injuries and fatalities on our nation’s roadways while getting motorists to look out for one another.
The latest data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s National Center for Statistics and Analysis revealed there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed in 2022, attributing to 15% of all traffic fatalities. An estimated 82,687 motorcyclists were injured in 2022, a 3% decrease from 84,898 motorcyclists injured the year prior.
The NHTSA reported in states without universal helmet laws, 54% of motorcyclists killed in 2022 were not wearing helmets compared to 11% in states with universal helmet laws. In addition, 35% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes in 2022 were riding without valid motorcycle licenses.
Because motorists often can’t see motorcycles due to them being in their blind spots, the NHTSA has these tips to prevent crashes with riders:
- Always allow a motorcycle the full width of a lane, as its operator has the same rights of the road as any other motorist.
- Always signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic.
- If you see a motorcycle with a signal on, be careful. Motorcycle signals often don’t turn off on their own and could have been forgotten.
- Always ensure that the motorcycle is turning before proceeding.
- Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections.
- Always allow more following distance when behind a motorcycle, giving them more time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.
Motorcyclists should never ride when tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition to knowing and following the rules of the road, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and NHTSA have these tips for motorcyclists when riding:
- Wear a DOT-compliant helmet and other protective gear.
- Wear eye protection.
- Wear leather or other sturdy, protective clothing like a jacket, pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves.
- Wear bright clothing to increase the chances of being seen.
- Obey all traffic laws and be properly licensed.
- Use hand and turn signals at every lane change or turn.
- Ride in the middle of the lane, where you will be more visible to drivers and not in a vehicle’s blind spot.
- Ensure your headlight works and is on – day or night.
With MAPFRE Insurance, Motorcycle Experience, and Safety Course Discounts are available for licensed drivers who have more than one year of motorcycle driving experience. Additional savings could be available if you’ve participated in a motorcycle safety course. Contact your independent agent for more information.
We hope you found these tips on motorcycle safety helpful. While driving safely is important, so is having the right coverage, so make sure you have your independent agent review your auto insurance policies. If you are not a MAPFRE customer yet, you can always get a fast, free quote today on your Massachusetts car insurance to get outstanding coverage at a great price.
