MOTORCYCLE SAFETY
INTRODUCTION
In 2020 – 61 motorcyclists died on Oklahoma roadways.
Here are the facts:
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Per miles traveled, motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in a crash.
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30% of crash fatalities were caused by motorcyclists driving without a valid motorcycle license.
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NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,872 motorcyclists in 2017.
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In Oklahoma alone, 62% of motorcycle fatalities were caused by drivers not wearing a helmet.
It’s easy to do better. By working to do these simple steps before getting on your motorcycle, you can protect yourself, other drivers and your loved ones. Remember, It’s Not Just About You.
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Always make sure to obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits and lane markings.
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Check all aspects of your motorcycle before your ride.
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Wear your helmet, and make sure it’s the right size too.
Experienced riders know local traffic laws - and they don't take risks.
May is Motorcycle Awareness Month
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety encourage all motorists to follow standard safety protocols, especially around motorcycles, to help everyone Make it Home Safe; Make Oklahoma Safe.
Motorcyclists must be active participants in their own safety:
Be Visible — Drive defensively, avoid blind spots, wear reflective clothing, always use turn signals
Dress for Safety — Wear head to toe protective gear including a DOT compliant helmet, gloves, boots, safety glasses or a full-face shield
Know your bike — Practice handling in various weather conditions, get appropriate bike size, inspect your motorcycle before each ride
Reduce your speed — Speeding is one of the top contributing factors to motorcyclist fatalities
Never drive distracted or under the influence — It’s not worth the risk of injury or death; DUIs are costly, and can lead to jail time, loss of your operator’s license, and higher insurance rates
Be properly licensed — Of the motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2020 (NTSB), 36 percent were riding without valid motorcycle licenses
Know before you go — Be sure to download the Drive Oklahoma mobile app for road conditions, construction projects, weather and other great resources for easier and safer travel
Educate yourself — Take a rider education course. OHP offers a free, eight-hour safety course for motorcyclists called Safe Riders. This collaborative partnership is funded by ODOT and taught by Oklahoma Highway Patrol motorcycle troopers. For more information, go online to https://www.ok.gov/saferiders/
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Share the Road
Motorcycle safety means looking twice. Remember to share the road.
Stop Horsin' Around
When it comes to motorcycle safety,
speeding is the leading cause of highway fatalities in Oklahoma.
Look Twice
Help riders make it home safe.
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY RESOURCES
