Safety News
Accident and fatality rates have gradually dropped over the last few years due to increased awareness of riders and the Rider Education Program nationwide. However, accidents are still unacceptably high. Below is Safety Data from the Department of Transportation and Highway Safety Board. I've selected data just for Indiana and Michigan. Both States have higher than normal motorcycle registrations, in fact both States are in the top ten of Harley Owners.
Indiana:
1998.......Accidents: 2,018................Motorcycle Deaths.54
1999.......Accidents: unavailable........Motorcycle Deaths.55
Michigan:
1998.......Accidents: 2,562................Motorcycle Deaths.56
1999 Data unavailable
These numbers represent ALL motorcycle accidents, not just Harley-Davidson. As you can see from this data, accidents do happen. Here's how you can lower your risk:
1. Take a Rider Course.
2. Wear brightly colored clothing.
3. Look well ahead while riding and turning your head to look though your turns.
4. Avoid excessive speed and don't drink alcohol when riding.
5. Refuse to be a victim. Aggressively search out hazards and be ready to react.
I hope some of the tips here will be helpful and make your riding safer. Riding our Harley's is a great way to meet friends and have adventure in our lives, but the best ride is always when we pull into our driveways that night safe and sound. Ready to go again the next day!
See you out on the road!