Riders at Risk: Driving Your Motorcycle Defensively

Navigating the open road on a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with inherent risks. Today we want to talk about understanding and mastering defensive riding techniques that can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, it’s time to explore essential skills, strategies, and insights that allow you to confidently and defensively handle the challenges of the road. Ride with confidence, but ride with caution – because at Rocky McElhaney Law Firm in Nashville, your safety is our priority.

Motorcycle accident statistics

The National Safety Council (NSC) states that “Although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States, motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities, 17% of all occupant fatalities, and 3% of all occupant injuries in 2021. A factor that directly influences motorcycle fatality trends is helmet use.”

The majority of motorcyclist fatalities occur:

• On urban roads (67%)
• In good weather (83%)
• During the nighttime (50%)
• In crashes involving two vehicles (53%)
• When wearing helmets (59%)

The NSC also notes that “72% of the motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes were NOT alcohol-impaired.”

The Tennessee Highway Patrol also lists the following statistics:

• Deaths on motorcycles are the fourth most frequent traffic incident, after deaths in passenger cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks.
• Motorcycle riders are 5.1 times more likely to be killed or injured in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants.
• One out of every five motorcycle accidents had a “non-collision most harmful event.”
• About five out of every eight motorcycle crashes occur in urban areas.
• Rural areas are 37% more likely to involve a serious injury or fatality.

Why are motorcycles so dangerous?

Motorcycles are often considered more dangerous than other forms of transportation due to several factors.

• First, a motorcycle’s vulnerability stems from the lack of a protective structure, leaving riders exposed to the elements and more susceptible to injury in the event of a collision or crash. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack the enclosed safety features like airbags and seat belts.
• In addition to vulnerability, the size and visibility of motorcycles contribute to dangers. Being smaller and less visible on the road than larger vehicles increases the likelihood of other motorists not noticing motorcycles, leading to potential accidents. This reduced visibility becomes a significant risk factor for riders.
• Further, motorcycles have stability issues that differentiate them from four-wheeled vehicles. Maneuvering on two wheels requires more skill and balance, making riders more prone to accidents, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on uneven road surfaces. The different balance and handling characteristics of motorcycles require a higher level of skill from riders.
• The high speeds and acceleration capabilities of motorcycles also play a role. With the potential for faster speeds, accidents involving motorcycles can be more severe compared to those involving cars. This increased speed poses an additional risk for riders.
• Road hazards further increase the risks associated with motorcycles. Motorcycles are more sensitive to road conditions such as potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces. These hazards, which are typically less significant for cars, can pose significant risks for motorcycle riders.
• Inexperienced riders also contribute to the danger associated with motorcycles. Some accidents occur due to a lack of experience or proper training among riders. Learning and practicing defensive riding techniques can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall safety.
• Finally, the behavior of other drivers on the road can affect the safety of motorcyclists. Inattentiveness, failure to signal, and a lack of awareness from other motorists can lead to collisions with motorcycles.

Understanding defensive driving techniques can help mitigate the risks of Nashville motorcycle accidents.

What is defensive driving?

Road Guardians notes that, “Sometimes, the best way to break a bad habit is to avoid forming it in the first place. This can be especially true for new motorcyclists, who require an extra degree of care and vigilance when first heading out on the open road.”

The company offers several defensive driving tips for new motorcyclists and seasoned motorcyclists alike. These include:

• Maintain your motorcycle: Motorcycles are less forgiving than cars – if you blow a tire in a car or truck, you can easily maneuver off the road. However, blowing a tire on a motorcycle can easily become a matter of life or death. It’s important to ensure your bike is in good working order every time you ride – this includes checking oil and fluids, tire pressure, and brakes.
• Wear the right gear: Per Road Guardians, “your protective gear is an extension of your bike’s safety features,” so it’s important to choose clothing and gear that fully covers the body. You should also look into gloves, goggles, and boots made specifically for motorcyclists to preserve your range of motion. And you should always wear a helmet, as Tennessee has a mandatory helmet law. Approved helmets include DOT (FMVSS 218 Certified), CSPM, SNELL, and SIRC.
• Don’t forget to look around: Many new motorcyclists tend to only focus on the road in front of them. However, it’s important to get into the habit of checking your mirrors, looking to the side, and looking far ahead to anticipate upcoming changes in traffic. Road Guardians points out, “Defensive driving means giving yourself the time and space to react. You can’t do that if you’re unaware of your surroundings.”
• Know your route: Ensure you understand your route ahead of time. Even with a GPS, checking out your route on a map beforehand can help avoid unpleasant surprises and let you focus on the task of operating your motorcycle.
• Stay confident: A hesitant and indecisive driver is an unsafe driver. Indecisive drivers can make unexpected moves and force the other drivers around them to react suddenly. Drive assertively, but not aggressively. Aggressive moves like changing lanes without signaling or impatient acceleration and deceleration in traffic can heighten the risk of accidents.

Road Guardians also notes that “Remember, defensive driving is about sharing the road but also having the skill and patience to control your small part of it.”

At Rocky McElhaney Law Firm, our experienced team of motorcycle accident attorneys is dedicated to advocating for riders and their families. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t navigate the legal complexities of your case alone. Your well-being and rights matter, and we are here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. We understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims and are committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation. To schedule a consultation with one of our Gladiators who will fight for your rights, call our Nashville offices or fill out our contact form. We have additional offices in Hendersonville, Murfreesboro and Clarksville so we’re always nearby when you need us the most.