The Vision for Safety

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Of course you would.

Few things can match riding down the open road with a warm and yet cool breeze in your face. Sunshine on your shoulders point the way to spend the day. As bikers we must be vigilant of our surroundings at all times.  We notice pedestrians, traffic, and the all mighty potholes lurking around every corner. That freedom is what we live for but it also means we are more exposed and more vulnerable than any other person on the open road. We’ve all seen it, drivers texting, using their review mirror to put on make-up, etc. While we as bikers would never do such things, we cannot ignore the fact that others do and we must remain vigilant at all times while sharing the road with them. We cannot assume they’re paying attention to where you are. Therefore, it’s up to you to make a difference for your own safety. We know how important it is to make yourself or your loved ones as visible as possible especially when you are decelerating and/or braking.

According to experts, motorcycle accidents, though not necessarily more common than other motor vehicle accidents, can be more devastating. But, they can also be caused by some unique circumstances. A number of studies and surveys have uncovered some interesting facts and statistics about motorcycle accidents: 

• Approximately ¾ of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with another vehicle, most often a passenger automobile. 
• Roadway defects (pavement ridges, potholes, etc.) cause only about 2% of all motorcycle accidents; and animals account for only about 1% of all accidents. 
• The failure of motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic is the predominating cause of motorcycle accidents. The driver of the other vehicle involved in collision with the motorcycle did not see the motorcycle before the collision, or did not see the motorcycle until too late to avoid the collision. 
• Approximately 50% of motorcycle riders use safety helmets. Only 40% of accident-involved motorcycle riders were wearing helmets at the time of the accident. 
• Voluntary safety helmet use by those accident-involved motorcycle riders was lowest for untrained, uneducated, young motorcycle riders on hot days and short trips. 
• The most deadly injuries to the accident victims were injuries to the chest and head.
• The use of the safety helmet is the single most critical factor in the prevention of reduction of head injury.
• Helmeted riders had fewer neck injuries than non-helmeted riders.

Source:HG.org