The myth that helmets can cause a motorcycle rider’s neck to get broken in a crash has been circulating for years, but you may be wondering if that is really true. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation released a study answering this question for motorcyclists in California and around the country.
Do helmets cause neck injuries in motorcycle accidents?
How can I avoid a motorcycle accident?
Traveling via two wheels in California can be one of the fastest, easiest forms of transportation, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. As a motorcyclist, you are less protected than fellow drivers in four-wheeled vehicles, so it is more important to be aware of possible dangers and the steps you should take to avoid them. RideApart.com details the biggest threats facing motorcycles and how to stay safe.
How important is wearing a helmet?
While helmeting laws vary in each state, neglecting this important piece of protection can land you in the hospital with life-changing injuries if you are involved in a motorcycle crash. The Neuroscience Institute at the University Hospital states that only 20 states and the District of Columbia require helmets to be worn by all riders. There are four states that do not require you to wear helmets at all and the remaining states mandate use by riders of a certain age. California requires all motorcycle riders to wear helmets, and a study reported by the institute details why this is necessary for your safety.
In California, lane-splitting is determined legal and safe
Lane-splitting has always been a controversial topic when it comes to the safety of motorcycle riders and other drivers. In September, California made history by making the practice formally acceptable, something no other state had done, according to the Los Angeles Times.
What injuries can you get from a motorcycle accident?
Although you are careful on California roads, you may find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident. You may be injured, even if you wear all of your protective gear. RideApart.com lists some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents.
Tips for safe passenger transport on motorcycles
When a driver decides to transport a passenger via motorcycle, there are many factors that need to be considered first. Each state has its own laws about multiple riders on a two-wheeled vehicle, and that includes California. According to the Official California Legislative Information, in order for the vehicle to carry more than one person, the motorcycle must be equipped with either a sidecar meant for carrying passengers or a secure seat attached behind the driver. If both riders are on seats instead of in a sidecar, there must also be available footrests for each person.
Tips to safely share the road with motorcycles
Every day, there are crashes involving motorcyclists. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that there were 519 motorcycle rider deaths across the state in 2014. Sharing the road is the responsibility of all drivers, but there are certain things other motorists can do to make traveling safer for those on two wheels.
A crash-proof motorcycle?
What might motorcycles look like in the future? BMW recently gave the public a glimpse at one of the possibilities. The automaker has revealed a new concept motorcycle design.
California Moves towards Officially Allowing Lane Splitting for Motorcycles
California Assembly member Bill Quirk has sponsored a bill that would make it officially legal for lane splitting in the state of California. The bill AB 51 was passed and signed by Governor Jerry Brown on August 19, 2016. It officially defines lane splitting (also referred to as lane sharing) and authorizes the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to come up with safety guidelines.
LiveMap Helmet: the future of motorcycle safety?
For many vehicle enthusiasts, the motorcycle is the epitome of adventure, excitement and freedom. It is a great blend of man and machine that not only thrills but also satisfies the desire for adventure. The problem is that motorcycle riders face many dangers on the open road from animals, road hazards and other drivers.
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