Motorcycles are everywhere during the summer and fall. The sunny weather may give you the perfect excuse to take your motorcycle out on the road. It is a great opportunity to enjoy the freedom of the open road.
However, riding your motorcycle in the warm weather is not all fun and games. Due to the fact that there are more vehicles on the road during these months, you may encounter hazards and end up in an accident. The first step to being safe is being informed. Here are some important motorcycle safety statistics for you to know.
Motorcycle accident facts
Even though motorcycles only account for 3 percent of vehicles and a meager .7 percent of miles traveled, there are a surprising number of deaths that occur due to motorcycle crashes.
- Nearly 5,000 motorcyclists and passengers died in accidents in 2016.
- Motorcycle riders accounted for 13 percent of traffic deaths in 2016.
- Ninety-one percent of motorcyclists who died in 2016 were men.
- Motorcyclists age 50 and older made up 36 percent of motorcycle deaths in 2016.
These statistics do not need to scare you into never riding again, but they should remind you to be safe and take legal action if you ever get into a collision.
Safety tips
Did you know that helmets are approximately 37 percent effective in preventing deadly injuries? Wearing a helmet goes a long way to helping you avoid serious injuries. Here are some guidelines for finding a good helmet:
- Get a helmet with a sticker from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
- Wear a helmet with full coverage for the most protection.
- Avoid buying a used helmet.
Even though Ohio law does not require you to wear a helmet if you are 18 years old or older, it is smart to wear one to avoid getting hurt.
Keep these statistics and tips in mind next time you take your motorcycle out for a ride.
