Indiana Motorcycle Safety as Spring & Warm Weather Beckon

As warm weather beckons, motorcyclists will increasingly roll their motorcycles out of winter storage and ride on roads and streets in Indiana. More motorcycles on the road can increase risks for drivers, riders, pedestrians, and passengers. This period is an excellent time to consider motorcycle safety for drivers and riders.

Sobering Facts

Indiana Criminal Justice Institute reports these statistics for motorcycle accidents across the state in 2019:

• There were 112 fatalities in motorcycle crashes.
• 41% of motorcyclists in accidents weren’t licensed with a motorcycle endorsement.
• Vehicle drivers were more likely at fault (60%) than motorcyclists (38%) in motorcycle accidents.

Car Drivers Can Also Be at Fault in Motorcycle Accidents

Reports show that when motorcycles crash with other vehicles, the driver often violates the right of way. These drivers may be in vans, trucks, and cars. Most drivers don’t notice motorcycles because:

• Motorcycles are small and often unnoticeable.
• Motorcycle movements often catch drivers unaware.
• Blind spots, obstructions, or other vehicles can impede a driver’s sightline.
• Distractions can slow drivers’ responses and alertness.

Tips for Drivers to Ensure Motorcycle Safety 

Drivers can avoid some of these crashes by following these tips:

• Watch out for motorcycles. Drivers can check blind spots before switching lanes and check the road twice at intersections before turning or pulling into traffic.
• Use turn signals when switching lanes.
• Anticipate hazards like debris and large potholes that can affect motorcyclists.
• Be observant and cautious when turning left. Such turns are the primary causes of accidents between motorcycles and vehicles, as cars often turn left into oncoming motorcycles’ paths. Take a second look to ensure there’s no oncoming traffic before turning left.
• Have a safe following distance because motorcycles can stop quicker than vehicles.
• Don’t drive impaired or distracted.
• Remember that motorcycles can operate in a full lane.

Drivers and passengers often have airbags, seat belts, and steel cages to protect them. Motorcyclists only have their protective gear, wits, and room to maneuver to keep them safe. Therefore, drivers can take extra precautions by following these rules to avoid harming motorcyclists.

Tips for Motorcycle Safety

Motorcyclists can also take some steps to protect themselves while on the road, including:

1. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course

A safety course can teach you essential road rules when riding a motorcycle. You may also discover appropriate steps to take when unpredictable situations arise. The course can also enhance your skills and good judgment, improving your safety when riding a motorcycle on a busy road.

2. Wear Motorcycle Gear

Motorcycle safety gear can protect you while riding on the road. For example, a helmet can reduce your risk for brain injury by around 67%. Motorcycle safety gear includes a helmet, leather jacket, goggles, leather pants or chaps, non-slip gloves, and over-the-ankle boots. The protective equipment can protect you from elements, road rash, and debris. While Indiana laws require motorcyclists and passengers under 18 years to wear helmets, other motorcyclists can still put on the right helmet.

3. Inspect the Motorcycle Before Riding It

Inspect your motorcycle before riding it to ensure it is in excellent condition. Check your taillights, headlights, brakes, horn, handlebars, mirrors, tire pressure, fuel, turn signals, and oil.

4. Follow Traffic Rules

Follow all the traffic rules. For example, use signals and obey speed limits. The rush and thrill of driving the motorcycle can tempt you to over-speed. However, avoid it as excessive speeding causes many motorcycle accidents.

5. Be Visible for Motorcycle Safety

Don’t assume you’re visible to other drivers. You can ensure you’re visible by avoiding other drivers’ blind spots, driving with your headlights on, wearing reflective clothing, and using your hand and turn signals.

6. Keep a Safe Distance

Tailgating isn’t safe. Stay at least four seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you. This gap allows you to stop during an emergency. You may also have an escape route like moving to the shoulder if you won’t stop in time.

7. Look for Hazards

Watch out for hazards like potholes. Be cautious around alleys, intersections, driveways, and other spots where pedestrians, animals, or cars can enter your path.

8. Carry a First Aid Kit

Having a basic first aid kit while riding the motorcycle can be helpful in case of an accident or injury. You may include bandages, disinfecting wipes, gauze, hand sanitizer, Band-Aids, and adhesive tape.

9. Take an Advanced Motorcycle Riding Course

Enroll in this program to practice and increase your riding skills. It can improve your collision avoidance maneuvers, control tips, braking techniques, and advanced turning skills.

10. Don’t Ride When Intoxicated

Riding a motorcycle when intoxicated can be dangerous. The drugs can hinder your vision and impede your reactions, increasing your risk for a collision. You may lose your license, serve a jail term, get injured, and pay hefty compensation to the people you harm.

Learn More About Motorcycle Safety in Indiana

Boulton Law Group can help you if you are in a motorcycle accident. We are a professional and law firm in Brownsburg, Indiana. Once you contact us, we will examine your case, help you collect evidence, advise you on your rights, protect your legal interests, and handle settlement negotiations. Contact us today to get experienced representation.