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How Dangerous is Riding a Motorcycle

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Riding a motorcycle inherently comes with more risk than driving an automobile.

Motorcycles are smaller, the rider lacks many of the things that cushion vehicle occupants from impacts, and they are much more difficult for other motorists to see.

All of these things combine to make riding a motorcycle more dangerous than driving a car.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Despite making up a much smaller percentage of overall motorists on the roadways, motorcyclists are overrepresented in fatalities and serious injuries as a result of traffic accidents.

Statistics show that motorcyclists are anywhere from 30 to 40 times more likely to die in a crash than people in cars.

Historically, about 5,000 motorcyclists die each year as a result of a traffic accident.

While reasons for fatalities vary, some contributing factors include:

  • Improperly licensed riders.
  • Riders not wearing the appropriate safety gear.
  • Operating a motorcycle while under the influence.

Every motorcyclist is going to experience situations that could increase the risks of accidents, serious injury, and death.

Being prepared and knowing how to reduce the risks of those outcomes is highly important.

How to Reduce the Risks of Riding a Motorcycle

It is every rider’s responsibility to make sure that they can make their ride as safe as possible.

Some ways to reduce the risks of being involved in a motorcycle accident include:

  • Making sure you take the time to learn about motorcycle safety.
  • Practice all the skills necessary to operate a bike.
  • Go through your state’s motorcycle licensing process.
  • Perform a pre-ride inspection before every trip.
  • Don’t be in a rush to get to your destination.
  • Never operate a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Make yourself as visible to other motorists as possible.
  • Spot hazards before they become a problem and avoid putting yourself into unnecessarily risky positions.

The best way to protect yourself if you are involved in an accident is by always wearing the appropriate motorcycle safety gear – no matter how short or long the ride.

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Content Editor: Ethan Orenstein

Ethan is not just any motorcycle enthusiast. With a decade of experience riding, maintaining, and restoring a range of motorcycles, Ethan brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Many of the tips and tricks shared on this site are born from hours spent wrenching on personal bikes. Paired with his experience as a journalist covering DMV & insurance topics, MotorcycleZombies.com is a must-visit site for any home-mechanic. Every article has been carefully reviewed and edited to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and simplicity - all to help bring your bike back from the dead and onto the road.

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