A motorcycle accident carries a high degree of risk. With such a small vehicle, accidents that wouldn’t result in injuries if the driver was in a pickup truck may result in serious injuries or even death on a motorcycle. As such, it’s important to debunk some of the myths about motorcycle safety.
1. Driver ignore motorcycles.
The reality is that drivers actually just have trouble seeing small motorcycles, especially in their mirrors and blind spots, when they’re used to looking for larger vehicles. Motorcycle riders need to work hard to be visible and avoid blind spots.
2. A helmet can snap your neck.
This myth is related to weight. It is thought that the extra weight on the rider’s head can snap his or her neck in an accident. However, studies have shown that neck injuries are less likely with a helmet on due to the way a helmet absorbs the impact.
3. Skilled riders can avoid accidents.
This simply isn’t true in all cases. Accidents happen without warning. Even the most skilled riders who follow all traffic laws may find there is nothing they can do when a vehicle turns in front of them or pulls out into the road and clips them.
4. Interstates are more dangerous.
The thought here is that driving at higher speeds makes the ride more dangerous. While it can make a crash more dangerous, you may be more likely do be involved in a wreck at slower speeds in the city. There, you have to contend with pedestrians, cars going both directions, vehicles parked along the street, side streets where people can unexpectedly drive out, and much more.
Even knowing the myths doesn’t mean all accidents can be avoided, as shown in Number 3. If you’re hurt in a wreck, you may be able to seek financial compensation in California.
Source: Motorcycle Cruiser, “The Deadly Dozen: 12 Motorcycle Safety Myths and Misconceptions,” accessed Aug. 04, 2016