Motorcycle Safety for Riders and Motorists
Today motorcycling is more popular than ever with the motorcycle community experiencing astounding growth. There are over 6.2 million motorcycles registered in the United States. Since 1980, motorcycle ownership among the 40 and over age group has increased significantly. The crash rate among motorcyclists in the 50 plus age group has increased by over 400 percent.
Sadly, the popularity and growth in motorcycle use has also led to a sharp increase in the number of motorcycle fatalities. Motorcyclists represent just 2 percent of all registered vehicles in the United States, but they are involved in over 10 percent of all crashes. Motorcycle fatalities have more than doubled in 10 years and now account for over 4,500 highway deaths and 78,000 injuries each year. In 2006, 4,810 motorcyclists died and approximately 88,000 were injured in highway crashes in the United States. Per miles traveled in 2006, a motorcyclist was approximately 37 times more likely to die in a crash than someone riding in a passenger car.
One of the main reasons motorcyclists are killed in crashes is because the motorcycle itself provides virtually no protection in a crash. By design, an automobile has more weight and bulk than a motorcycle. It has door beams and a roof to provide some measure of protection from impact or rollover. An automobile has cushioning and airbags to soften impact and seat belts to hold passengers in their seats. It is also more stable and because of its size, it is easier to see. On the contrary, motorcycles lack the size, bulk, and other crashworthiness factors.
Motorcyclists come from all walks of life, work in all occupations, and represent all age ranges. With the increasing popularity of motorcycles as a mode of transportation, chances are some of your employees own a motorcycle, whether for commuting to and from work or for recreation. To keep your employees safe on the roadway, get involved in promoting motorcycle safety awareness events and in providing training opportunities in the workplace.
Resources for Employers:
Keep Your Employee-Motorcyclists Safe
NETS Bookmarks to Download for Dissemination
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