Get Motorcycle Safety Down to a Science.

Compared to other motorists, motorcyclists face dramatically higher risks on the road because they don’t have seat belts or a solid vehicle surrounding them.

88 motorcyclists died on Oklahoma roads in 2016.

Ready to shift safety into high gear?

Use these tips today, and remember… when you ride, ride right.
When you drive, look twice.

Driver Tip: Inspect Intersections.

At intersections, rather than seeing the presence of a motorcycle approaching, drivers often perceive the lack of a car. Even if the motorcycle is seen, its small size makes it difficult to judge the approach speed and closing distance. Be sure to look twice at intersections.

Helmet usage is the single best defense motorcyclists can take to protect themselves. Research has shown that the protective effects of helmets led to a 42% reduction in risk of fatality in a crash, and a 69% reduction in the risk of a head injury in a crash.

In Oklahoma, helmets are only required for drivers and riders under the age of 18. However, it’s highly recommended that anyone operating or riding a motorcycle always wear a helmet — even on short trips. Look for helmets that have the official “DOT” sticker on the back so you know that helmet is approved for use. Be sure it has a thick polystyrene-foam lining and a sturdy chinstrap. Choose light-colored helmets to make yourself more visible to other drivers, too. Be sure to wear other protective gear as well, including:

Motorcyclist Tip: Wear a Helmet and the Appropriate Gear.

Goggles

If your helmet doesn’t have a face shield, be sure to wear goggles.They’ll help keep your eyes from watering, and won’t fall off like eyeglasses.

Clothing

Arms and legs should be completely covered — ideally, with leather, heavy denim or other thick materials. Also, wear brightly colored clothing with reflective material for better visibility on the road.

Boots

Boots or shoes should be high enough to cover your ankles. Choose a pair with good grip, tight ankle support and strong soles.

Gloves

Gloves allow for a better grip and help protect your hands from impact and abrasion in the event of a crash. Choose heavy-duty gloves with retention straps and waterproof membranes.

Motorcyclists are 27x more likely to die in a crash than other motorists.

80% of all motorcycle crashes result in injury or death.

Driver Tip: Mind Your Blind Spot.

Because of their size, motorcycles can easily disappear into blind spots. As a driver, make an effort to constantly look around, especially in your rear-view and side mirrors. Always look twice and signal before turning and changing lanes.

Driver Tip: Increase Your Following Distance.

Brake lights on motorcycles don’t always activate. Allow for more following distance, especially at intersections when a bike may slow down without visual warning.

Driver Tip: Be Cautious with Blinkers.

Unlike cars, blinkers on bikes usually don’t turn off on their own. So if you see one flashing after a turn or lane change, it could mean the rider forgot to turn it off.

Rider Tip: Take It Slow on Turns and Curves.

In 2016, 35.1% of motorcycle operators fatally or seriously injured were driving at an unsafe speed on a curve or turn, and 26.3% were exceeding the legal limit in Oklahoma. Always follow the speed limit, and take it slow on curves and turns.

Rider Tip: Handle Road Hazards.

It’s important to know how to handle your motorcycle in conditions like wet roads, high winds and uneven surfaces. Annoyances like loose gravel and potholes are also major hazards. Practice riding in conditions like these, and develop good riding techniques before getting into heavy traffic.

Both drivers and motorcycle riders share responsibility in preventing dangerous situations. Help keep our roads safe and reduce the number of motorcycle fatalities in Oklahoma. It’s imperative that drivers and riders be extra attentive, obey traffic laws and follow all safety precautions. Remember, when you ride, ride right. When you drive, look twice.