CHENANGO COUNTY – Have you ever checked both directions, and proceeded to enter an intersection or the highway, only to see a motorcycle that you did not observe? Have you ever been distracted or daydreaming and not observing traffic?
Today is a fast-paced society where thoughts of family or work draw our attention away from the task at hand – driving.
Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable in the motoring public. In any collision with a four-wheel vehicle, a motorcyclist is at a severe disadvantage. A motorcycle crash with a car or truck can mean death or serious injury for the motorcyclist. Injuries sustained can potentially result in loss of limb, damage to internal organs, paralysis or other types of life-changing disabilities.
Chenango County statistics for 2012 reflect that of the 1,018 motor vehicle crashes, 27 involved motorcycles. Of those 27 crashes, five resulted in fatalities and the other 22 crashes caused personal injury to the motorcycle operators. New York State statistics for the same period reflect a similar proportion of total motor vehicle crashes (294,757) to those involving motorcycles (5,916). The majority of those motorcycle crashes took place between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Here are some tips for safe motorcycle riding:
• Wear a helmet
Research shows that large numbers of motorcyclists escape death by wearing helmets. Head injuries, even those sustained at low impact, can be fatal, further substantiating the case for wearing a helmet.
• Wear brightly-colored, protective clothing
Motorcyclists should always wear appropriate gear for protection, and be clearly visible to other drivers.
• Keep awake and stay sober
Drowsiness and fatigue can seriously impair a motorcyclist’s reflexes and reaction time. Bikers should avoid riding when fatigued and plan for regular short breaks. Alcohol and other drugs should be strictly avoided when riding a motorcycle.
• Abide by traffic laws
A substantial number of motorcycle riders involved in accidents are driving without licenses or are improperly licensed. Motorcyclists should ensure their license is always up to date and take care to obey the traffic laws.
• Bike safety and planning
Motorcyclists should perform a bike safety inspection before each ride. Accidents often occur as a result of mechanical problems. Plan ahead when riding in a group. Determine your route in advance and make sure it is coordinated with other riders.
• All drivers-Continuous learning and improvement
A large percentage of drivers involved in accidents have had no driver training or have become complacent. Enrolling in a driver’s training course is a good way of developing basic driving skills. Once the basic techniques are acquired, drivers can sharpen their skills for street riding by taking a defensive driving course or an advanced program for motorcyclists.
Remember to always be courteous and respectful to other motorists who use the roads. Do not tailgate the vehicle in front of you, and retain a safe reactive driving distance. Avoid riding a motorcycle when you are under the influence of alcohol. Do not ride between slow-moving vehicles, and recognize and follow all traffic laws.