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May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

On Behalf of | May 19, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents

As you hit the open roads of Kentucky and southeastern Indiana this spring, remember that May marks Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. This observance comes at a critical time when motorcycle traffic increases with warmer weather.

The statistics are sobering. Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in crashes than passenger car occupants. In 2023 alone, 6,335 motorcyclists lost their lives, representing 15% of all traffic fatalities. These statistics represent real risks that demand attention for you and your loved ones who ride.

How motorcyclists can stay safe on the road

Your safety on a motorcycle begins before you ever start the engine. Ensure you’re properly licensed, as 34% of motorcycle operators in fatal crashes lack valid licenses. Before each ride, check your bike thoroughly:

  • Inspect tire pressure and tread depth
  • Test hand and foot brakes
  • Verify headlights and signal indicators work properly
  • Check fluid levels and look for leaks
  • Secure and balance any cargo

When riding, always wear DOT-approved helmets. Helmet use increased to nearly  74% in 2023, which is a positive trend that saves lives. Cover your arms and legs completely with leather or heavy denim, wear boots that cover your ankles, and use gloves for better grip and protection. Bright, reflective clothing makes you more visible to others on the road.

Ride responsibly by obeying traffic laws and never operating your motorcycle while impaired. Alarmingly, 41% of riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2023 were alcohol-impaired. Stay alert and sober as your life depends on it.

What drivers need to know about sharing the road

If you drive a car or truck, you play a crucial role in motorcycle safety. Many multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes happen simply because drivers didn’t see the motorcyclist. To protect the riders around you:

  • Always check blind spots twice before changing lanes
  • Give motorcycles a full lane width, and never try to share a lane
  • Allow a greater following distance
  • Be especially careful at intersections where most crashes occur
  • Remember that instead of braking, motorcyclists may downshift or back off the throttle, so brake lights do not activate
  • Never drive distracted – put down your phone and stay focused

If injured in a crash, guidance from a skilled motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate medical bills, insurance claims and all legal aspects of recovery while you focus on healing. Do not attempt to navigate the aftermath of a motorcycle accident accident alone. Omega Law PLLC is here to stand up for those in Northern Kentucky who have been injured. Call at 859-905-0814 or reach out to us online today for a free consultation.

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