Motorcycles and cars are two of the most common modes of transportation around the world. While both offer freedom and convenience, they come with different risks, especially when it comes to accidents.

Since the inception of automobiles, accidents have always been present in history. Once the creation of Motorcycles were introduced, the possibility for more disastrous accidents rose, and have persisted into today. On average 6,000+ motorcyclists die each year in car/truck/van vs motorcycle accidents.

While accidents, as defined, can not fully be prevented there are ways to help reduce the risk to yourself or other drivers/riders on the road.

Automobile History

The history of the automobile dates back to the late 19th century, when inventors began experimenting with self-propelled vehicles. The first practical automobile was developed in 1885 by Karl Benz, who designed the Benz Patent-Motorwagen, a three-wheeled vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. This innovation marked a significant departure from horse-drawn carriages and laid the groundwork for the automotive industry. Shortly after, in 1893, Charles and Frank Duryea built the first gasoline-powered car in the United States, leading to a series of advancements and the establishment of various automobile companies.

Motorcycle History

The history of motorcycles dates back to the late 19th century when inventors began experimenting with motorized bicycles. The first true motorcycle is credited to German engineer Gottlieb Daimler and his assistant Wilhelm Maybach, who built the "Riding Car" in 1885. This vehicle featured a small internal combustion engine mounted on a wooden bicycle frame. Although it had limited power and was not widely adopted at the time, it laid the foundation for future developments in motorcycle design.

In the following years, various inventors and companies contributed to the evolution of motorcycles. One notable example is the American company Indian Motorcycle, founded in 1901, which became one of the first major motorcycle manufacturers in the United States. Around the same time, Harley-Davidson emerged as a competitor, producing high-quality motorcycles that quickly gained popularity. The early 20th century saw motorcycles being used for recreational purposes as well as for military applications during World War I, further solidifying their place in transportation history.

The design and technology of motorcycles continued to advance throughout the 20th century, with innovations such as electric starters, improved suspension systems, and more powerful engines. The post-World War II era marked a significant shift as motorcycles became symbols of freedom and rebellion, particularly popularized by youth culture in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, motorcycles come in various styles and types, appealing to a wide range of riders and enthusiasts worldwide.

The History of Car and Motorcycle Crashes

The history of vehicle accidents dates back to the late 19th century, shortly after the invention of the automobile. The first recorded automobile accident occurred on August 31, 1891, in Ohio City, Ohio. The accident involved a car driven by James Lambert, who lost control and crashed into a tree. Fortunately, Lambert only suffered minor injuries. This incident marked the beginning of automotive accidents in history.

As cars became more popular, the number of accidents increased. Motorcycles, which gained popularity in the 1920s, also contributed to the growing statistics of road accidents.

Throughout the decades, advancements in safety technology have been made in both cars and motorcycles. However, motorcycles have always posed a greater risk due to their lack of protective structures compared to cars. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has consistently reported that motorcyclists are significantly more likely to be involved in fatal crashes compared to car occupants.

~Frequency of Crashes

~According to recent statistics from the NHTSA, motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per mile traveled. In 2021, there were approximately 5,932 motorcyclist fatalities in the United States alone. In contrast, car crash fatalities totaled around 22,000 in the same year.

~To provide a more detailed comparison:

• Motorcycles: Motorcycle riders are significantly more vulnerable in crashes. Statistics show that motorcyclists are approx. 30 times more likely to die in crashes compared to car occupants. Motorcycle accidents have a staggering 80% injury or death rate, which is substantially higher than that of car accidents.
• Automobiles: On the other hand, car accidents are more frequent but typically less deadly on a per-incident basis. The injury or death rate for car accidents stands around 20%.

~Factors contributing to motorcycle accidents include:

• Lack of visibility
• Excessive Speed
• Poor weather conditions
• Rider inexperience
• Inadequate protective gear

~While car crashes occur more frequently overall, the severity of injuries sustained by motorcyclists is typically higher.

Preparing for Motorcycle Accidents: A Prepper's Approach

For those who ride motorcycles, preparation is key to reducing the risk of injury or death in an accident.

~1. Wear Protective Gear

~Investing in high-quality protective gear can significantly reduce the severity of injuries. Essential gear includes:

• Helmet: A full-face helmet offers the best protection.
• Jacket: Look for jackets made from abrasion-resistant materials with armor in high-impact areas like elbows, shoulders, and back
• Pants: Motorcycle-specific pants provide better protection than regular clothing and are normally easy enough to slip over your everyday clothing. Like the jacket, get a set with extra armor in the knees and butt.
• Gloves: Durable gloves can protect hands against road rash and dislocations during falls.
• Boots: Sturdy, tightly fit, over-ankle boots can help prevent foot and ankle injuries.

~You may be wondering “How am I supposed to wear all of that when I drive my motorcycle to work or to a casual location?” Most motorcycles come with some form of storage, others may even have large saddle bags that allow for a good bit of storage. Other riders on bikes with less storage will often wear a backpack to help store their gear as well.

~2. Take Safety Courses

~In most states in the U.S. completing a motorcycle safety course is required to get a Motorcycle endorsement/license. In preparation for riding your motorcycle, it is recommended to really pay attention and take the lessons to heart from your safety course. The course can enhance riding skills and teach awareness. These courses teach defensive riding techniques that can help avoid accidents in the future.

~3. Maintain Your Motorcycle

~Regular maintenance checks are crucial for safe riding. It is recommended to get your motorcycle serviced every 500-600 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Ensure that the oil, brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components are in good working order. Having working brakes, pumped tires and working lights can mean the difference between quick reactions and being seen versus a malfunction leading to getting in a serious accident.

~4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

~While all drivers on the road should keep a keen eye on their surroundings, it is extra important for motorcyclists. Motorcycles are smaller and often drive faster than the average car, truck, or van which open up opportunities for you to be missed by the common motorist. Always be vigilant on the road. This includes things like checking your mirrors frequently, watching for blind spots, following the road rules and anticipating the actions of other automobile drivers.

~5. Have an Emergency Plan

~In case of an accident, having a plan can make a difference:

• First Aid Kit: Carry a compact first aid kit on your motorcycle to help with minor incidents and accidents.
• Emergency Contact Information: Keep emergency contact information, blood type, medical allergies and medical disorder information easily accessible, like in your wallet or protective jacket pocket.
• Communication Device: Make sure you are traveling with a charged phone, smart watch, or other communication device to enable a quick 911 call or allow people who stop to call a loved one for you.

~6. Ride Defensively Not Aggressively

~Adopting a defensive riding strategy involves anticipating potential dangers and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. This approach can help prevent accidents before they occur.

~~Defensive Driving Tactics:

• Be aware of surroundings
• Be cautious when in the right or left lanes (watch for cars coming out of parking lots, driveways, turn lanes, etc.)
• Stay a safe distance behind and in front of other drivers
• Turning lights on at night

~~Things to avoid:

• Bobbing and weaving through traffic
• Splitting lanes
• Do not exceed the speed limit in excess (it is known the “true speed limit” is not often followed, even for car drivers, but try not to exceed the speed limit by more than the cars surrounding you, a.k.a follow the flow of traffic)
• Riding during severe storms

How Car Drivers Can Help Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are a significant concern to all on the roads, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. While motorcycle drivers have their own responsibilities to carry when operating their own bike, other vehicle drivers can also help prevent a potentially devastating crash. By adopting certain behaviors and being mindful of their surroundings, car drivers can contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone.

1. Stay Aware: Always be on the lookout for motorcycles, especially at intersections and during lane changes. Motorcycles can be harder to see than larger vehicles.
2. Use Turn Signals: Signal your intentions well in advance when turning or changing lanes. This will give motorcyclists time to react.
3. Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe following distance from motorcycles. They often stop faster than cars, and this extra space can prevent collisions.
4. Check Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging. Motorcycles can easily be hidden in these areas.
5. Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road. Distracted driving increases the risk of missing a motorcycle.
6. Be Cautious in Bad Weather: Adjust your driving behavior in rainy or slippery conditions, as motorcycles are more susceptible to losing traction than a car.
7. Yield the Right of Way: Give motorcycles the right of way when it is appropriate. They have the same rights as other vehicles on the road.
8. Watch for Lane Splitting: While only California legally allows lane-splitting, many motorcyclists across the nation take it upon themselves to split lanes to surpass high traffice areas. Even though it is illegal, be cautious and make sure you allow space for motorcyclists to pass safely, to help prevent an accident.

By following these tips, car drivers can contribute to safer road conditions for everyone, including motorcyclists.