Licensed, experienced drivers can play a huge role in promoting motorcycle safety and preventing crash-related fatalities. One method is wearing a helmet. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,829 motorcyclists in 2008. If all motorcyclists wore helmets, it is predicted an additional 823 lives could have been saved. It is also estimated that for every 100 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes, had they all worn helmets, 37 of them could have been saved.
Remaining visible, obeying speed limits, remaining aware of traffic conditions -- especially those that may require one to slow down, and following cars at a safe distance can help promote safer traffic conditions. Other drivers also play a large part, especially considering that half of motorcycle crashes involve other vehicles. Drivers should take special care to be aware of motorcyclists on the road. They should drive with a safe travel distance between themselves and motorcycles, take care in lower visibility conditions and take extra caution when making left turns in order to share the road more safely.
