Summer and early fall are some of the best times of the year to rev up your motorcycle and hit the open road. The warm weather, open roads, and long days create an ideal environment for motorcycle enthusiasts. But with that comes an increase in road congestion and a higher risk of accidents—not just for cars but for motorcycles as well.
However, many drivers overlook that car accidents and motorcycle accidents don’t compare. A minor fender bender in a car might result in nothing more than a dent, but for a motorcycle rider, the same impact can have life-threatening consequences. If a rider is sideswiped, it isn’t a door or fender that’s hit — it’s their arms and legs, completely exposed, and there are no protective barriers.
The NHTSA estimates that 80% of all reported crashes result in injury or fatality for the motorcyclist. While these statistics span the time frame of a whole year, August is considered one of the deadliest months on the road for motorcycle riders.
This is why riders must take all the extra safety precautions they can, no matter the season or experience level. To reduce your chances of becoming another statistic, Drivingtests.org shared this article, “How to Share the Road with Motorcycles: 10 Vital Tips Every Driver Should Know,” to help promote motorcycle awareness.
Even experienced riders benefit from refreshing their skills and taking necessary precautions before hitting the road.
Practice operating your motorcycle. This doesn’t just apply to new riders. Whether you are a new rider or only ride seasonally, spend time reacquainting yourself with your bike. Take a few practice rides in safe parking as a skills refresher.
Be cautious at night. 36% of motorcycle accidents occur when it is dark outside. To minimize risk, slow down, stay alert, and wear reflective gear for visibility.
Perform a pre-ride safety check. A quick inspection only takes a few minutes and ensures your motorcycle is road-ready. It can save you from some dire consequences and help make sure your bike doesn’t need maintenance that can impact your safety.
What to Check Before Riding:
Responsible Lane Splitting
Lastly, split lanes responsibly. Lane splitting—riding between vehicles in slow-moving traffic—is not legal in every state. If you’re in a state where it’s permitted, ride with caution:
These tips only scratch the surface to help riders stay safe on the road. For more information, find resource lists online.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600 and one of our experienced staff will speak with you personally and provide you with a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Contact us today at (877) 284-6600 for a free review of your case.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published August 21, 2019. Content was reviewed and updated for accuracy on May 9, 2025.
