The last few days have felt like summer, resulting in more and more motorcyclists on the roadways.  In the last 10 years, registered motorcycles have increased 14%, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).  While riding can be fun and liberating, it is not without its dangers. May is National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and AAA is reminding everyone to take precautions when driving around motorcycles and to Share the Road safely and responsibly.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. In 2022, there were 6,218 motorcyclists killed — 15% of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclists killed since at least 1975. Of the motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes in 2022, 35% were riding without valid motorcycle licenses.

In New Jersey, in 2022 there were 93 fatalities involving 97 motorcycles according to the New Jersey State Police Fatal Crash Report. Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than passenger vehicle drivers in the event of a crash.

“Motorcycle fatalities are prevalent and need to be addressed and motorists are reminded to safely “Share the Road” with motorcycles and to be extra alert when driving to help keep motorcyclists safe,” says Tracy Noble, spokesperson for AAA Club Alliance. “Motorcyclists are also reminded of their responsibilities to keep themselves as safe as possible by following the rules of the road, be alert to other drivers, and never drive while impaired or distracted.

According to the National Safety Council, in 2022, although motorcycles made up only three percent of all registered vehicles and less than one percent (0.7%) of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States, motorcyclists accounted for nearly 15% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries.

2021 NSC Motorcycle Fatality Trends indicate the majority of motorcyclist fatalities occurred:

• On urban roads (66%)
• In good weather (94%)
• During daytime (50%)
• In crashes involving two vehicles (55%)
• When wearing helmets (60%)

Helmet Use

Helmet use continues to be significantly higher in states that require all motorcyclists to be helmeted than in states without a helmet requirement. According to the National Occupant Protection Use Survey (NOPUS), use of Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmets by all motorcyclists (riders and passengers) was 66.5% in 2022, a slight increase from 64.9% in 2021. Motorcycle helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41% effective for motorcycle passengers. “The importance of motorcyclists and their passengers wearing a helmet cannot be overstated,” says Noble.  Like seat belts, helmets are a simple and effective way to reduce the likelihood of injury or death during a crash.

Motorcycle helmet laws vary by state.  In New Jersey, helmets are required by all riders.  It’s everyone’s responsibility — both the motor vehicle driver and the motorcyclist — to practice safe habits on the road and, ultimately, to Share the Road.

AAA Tips for Sharing the Road

Safety Tips for Motorists

• Share the road.  A motorcycle has the same privileges as any other vehicle on the road.  Be courteous and give the motorcyclist a full lane of travel.
• Look out. Look for motorcyclists on the highway, especially at intersections when a cyclist may be making a turn or changing lanes.  Clearly signal your intentions.
• Anticipate a motorcyclist’s maneuvers.  Obstructions (debris, potholes, etc.) that you may ignore or not notice can be deadly for a motorcyclist.  Anticipate their possible evasive actions.
• Allow plenty of space.  Do not follow a motorcycle too closely.  Allow enough room for the motorcyclist to take evasive actions.
• Keep your cool.  Even if you get agitated seeing a motorcyclist making unsafe moves, do not attempt to play games on the road.

Safety Tips for Motorcyclists

• Make yourself visible.  Choose protective gear that provides visibility and protection.  This includes wearing bright colors.  If riding at night, wear clothing with reflective materials.
• Allow space.  Position your bike in the lane so that you can be seen.  Allow additional space for emergency braking and room to maneuver.  Avoid riding in a motorist’s blind spot.  Make lane changes gradually and use appropriate signaling.
• Never share a lane beside a car.  A driver may be unaware of your presence.  Most drivers are looking for larger vehicles, not motorcycles.
• Clearly signal your intentions. Use turn signals before changing lanes and never weave between lanes.
• Complete a motorcycle rider education and training course.  The overwhelming majority of motorcyclists have had no formal training – they were self-taught or learned from family and friends.  Get professional training on how to be a defensive driving motorcyclist
• Wear protective gear.
  • Helmet – Always wear a U.S. DOT-approved helmet.  Eye protection – Visibility is key to riding safely.  Many motorcycles do not have windshields.  Riders should protect their eyes with goggles that can shield the face from wind and debris, both of which can cause tearing and, blurred vision.
  • Body Protection – Jackets with long sleeves and trousers protect limbs from injury.
  • Gloves – Durable gloves should be a non-slip type to permit a firm grip on controls.
  • Footwear – Proper over-the-ankles footwear should be worn to help prevent injuries.