Too many fatal crashes occur on two wheels every year, and quite often it has nothing to do with the biker or their ability. A motorcyclist is 28 times more likely to lose their life in a fatal collision compared to other motorists on the road, and motorcycles are undeniably more vulnerable in nearly any given situation. Motorcycles are smaller, more difficult to see, and less intimidating than typical vehicles when headed in your direction. This leads to the too common occurrence of people pulling out in front of bikes, hence the need for the social campaign, "Look Out For Motorcycles." 

Unfortunately, the responsibility to ensure a biker lives to see another day seems to rest almost soley on their own shoulders. Driving a car you have a protective shell with seatbelts, airbags, and impact zones. This numbs the driver and detaches them from the dangers of what they are doing. It's quite apparent on a bike, on the other hand. Not only do motorcyclists have to deal with decreased traction, debris/hazards in the roadways, and unfriendly weather/environmental conditions, but we also have to be hyper aware of every single moving object within our eyesight and beyond. We must hold the expectation that we are essentially invisible to others, and that everything is out to get us. There are no givens on a motorcycle, and assumptions can be deadly when other drivers act unpredictably. Despite the increased difficulty in operating, motorcycles are constantly looking out for cars, but that seems to go unrecirprocated. What I'm trying to explain here is that it takes a lot to operate a motorbike in of itself, let alone with traffic and pedestrians all around. 61% of motorcycle fatalities occur within Urban areas. Additionally, 76% of motorcycle collisions are head on, suggesting that often something enters their zone before they are unable to brake in time. 

I don't want to suggest that motorcyclists are always in the right and that every accident should be attributed to vehicular negligence on the part of the car. Factors such as alcohol, lack of helmets, and speeding are substantial contributors to the fatality statistics as well, in reference to the biker. There will always be present danger in riding a motorcycle, but measures such as proper protective riding gear, a sober and clear mind, and loud pipes can make a positive difference. 

This blog comes in a timely matter because August is reportedly the most dangerous time for a motorcyclist to be on the road, with 14% of all fatal crashes occurring within the month. No one should get the call that their family member won't be coming home tonight or ever again, especially when the motorcyclist did nothing wrong. I ride and have many family members and friends that do as well. I have lost friends and seen lives turned upside down from crashes. For me, for those you know, and for those you don't, please look out for motorcycles. 

Statistics cited in this blog and additional information on the topic can be found at: Motorcycle Accident Statistics & Numbers For 2023 – Forbes Advisor