Some Minnesota residents enjoy riding a motorcycle to get around and save money on gas. Although riding is a great way to feel free, it can also be dangerous. It’s important to stay safe on your motorcycle this summer.
How many motorcycle accidents occurred last year?
In 2021, there were 109,000 motorcycle accidents. Out of those, around 62,000 involved other vehicles and nearly 2,900 resulted in fatalities. The rest saw serious property damage and injuries.
Many of the motorcycle accidents that occur are due to drivers of cars and other, larger vehicles not looking out for motorcycles.
More people are out and about during the spring and especially the summer on motorcycles due to the pleasant weather. People are more likely to take day trips and go on short vacations during their downtime. With the increased number of vehicles on the road, those riding motorcycles are more at risk than usual.
How can motorcycle riders stay safe?
Motorcycle riders can do their part to stay safer on the road. If you ride, you should avoid lane-splitting as much as possible and stay within the legal speed limit.
Give plenty of room between your motorcycle and the vehicle ahead of you. It’s also important to only pass other vehicles from the left and stay out of larger vehicles’ blind spots.
Slow down whenever you’re traveling along a curve. If you’re moving too fast, it increases the risk of skidding out and failing to stay within your lane. Always use your turn signals when switching lanes or merging.
Make sure you’re seen at all times. Use your motorcycle’s lights and wear reflective, protective clothing especially when you’re riding at night. Always wear your motorcycle helmet.