Motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable motorists on the road due to their lack of protection. Even though motorcyclists don’t have much to protect them from the elements or in the event of an accident, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) report that fatal motorcycle accidents continue to decrease.
While there are a number of factors to consider in regards to the decrease of motorcycle accidents, it may be safe to assume that safety technology for motorcycles can also play a significant role in reducing fatal accidents.
Like automobiles, new motorcycles are often loaded with safety features, and manufacturers are constantly evolving and improving features to make motorcycles safer. Let’s take a closer look at some safety tech features that are becoming more common.
Helmets are a must and are often life-saving, but other traditional motorcycle gear doesn’t offer a lot of protection in the event of an accident. As car owners, we’ve grown accustomed to air bags, but it’s not a common safety feature on motorcycles.
Although air bag clothing was once exclusive to motorcycle racing, it’s becoming more common all types of motorcyclists from those who commute every day to those who ride on the weekends.
Air bag clothing, such as vests, jackets, and full body suits, are designed to deploy within milliseconds when an accident is imminent.
Whether you’re riding at dusk or during cloudy weather, the headlight on your motorcycle not only provides extra light when you need it, but it also helps to improve your visibility to other motorists.
Older motorcycles often have smaller headlights with low-quality of light (and the light is fixed). Adaptive headlights have sensors, and the light will pivot when your motorcycle moves, which means your light moves with your bike and more of your path is illuminated.
Just like cars, low tire pressure on your motorcycle can affect your gas mileage, how well your bike handles the road, and even increase your risk of an accident. Even if you are vigilant about checking the air in your tires before you head out on a ride, a built-in electronic tire pressure monitor can take the guesswork and hassle out of checking the air in your tires.
Many newer motorcycles are equipped with built-in air monitors that alert the rider when the pressure is low.
While we can continue to see motorcycles becoming safer and upgraded with safety features, there is other technology that motorcyclists can utilize without spending too much money or buying a new motorcycle.
Although there are several contributing factors in motorcycle accidents, alcohol is a common factor. Some motorcyclists don’t think that DUI laws apply to them and make the decision to ride after enjoying a few drinks.
All states in the U.S. (except for Utah) make a BAC of 0.08 or higher unlawful. Not sure what your BAC is or how many drinks may increase your risk of a DUI? This BAC calculator at knowledgeinitiative.org/bac-calc/ not only helps you determine what your BAC might be, but it gives you the breakdown of what you can expect at different BAC levels and what’s considered “one drink” (such as a beer or wine).
There are other apps and breathalyzers that encourage motorcyclists and motorists to stay off the road when drinking alcohol. Keep in mind that even if you determine that your BAC is well below the limit, you may still be involved in an accident and can face legal issues if you were drinking alcohol.