Motorcycle Safety

With over 6.2 million registered motorcyclists nationally, riders are 37 times more likely to die in an accident than motorists, and 8 times more likely to be injured (NHTSA, 2006). This means motorcycle accidents are generally fatal. The best protections for riders are helmets (required for all riders in VA), gloves, sturdy jackets and pants, protective eyewear, and boots to cover the ankles. A detailed description can be found on DMV’s website.

Seniors need to be extra cautious when riding a motorcycle. As people age, health and physical issues may add to the safety factors. Some include:

  • Strength needed to pick up and hold up a motorcycle becomes an issue.
  • More endurance is needed to ride longer distances
  • Impaired night vision limits riding to day hours
  • Arthritis can reduce agility in shifting and steering around obstacles.

Suggestions to compensate for these impairments are:

  • Lighter weight motorcycle
  • Lower height motorcycle
  • Convert to three-wheeler
  • Better seating and upright seating
  • Take more breaks during trips
  • Drive during daytime hours
  • Drive more cautiously, slower
  • Drive in clear weather conditions
  • Get your eyes checked regularly


 

Additional Resources