Motorcycle myths

By: Randy Youngman Regional Traffic Safety Consultant

I have been a biker for almost 50 years, and as much as I love motorcycles, I have to admit that they are (statistically) one of the most hazardous forms of transportation. This is because of the fact that there is little, if anything on a motorcycle that protects you in the event of a crash.

Whenever you get a bunch of motorcyclist together, the conversation will often swing to motorcycle crashes and other safety related issues. If you listen long enough you can hear many myths and misconceptions, some of which can be downright dangerous and can increase your chances of getting hurt or killed should you be involved in a crash. Unfortunately, I have found that many motorcyclists actually do believe some of these, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to dispel a few of the more common fallacies and urban myths.

Myth #1– If you think you’re going to crash, lay it down! An oxymoron if I’ve ever heard one! If you lay it down, you have crashed! Motorcycle brakes and tires are of such superior quality that they will always stop you quicker than sliding along on the pavement on your side. Generally, if you have time to “lay it down” you may have been able to make a potentially life-saving maneuver to avoid the crash.

Myth #2 – Motorcycle Helmets Break Necks! While adding the weight of a helmet might seem like it would add a “pendulum” effect and increase injury, studies show that it turns out to be the opposite.In fact, the energy-absorbing qualities of an approved DOT or Snell motorcycle helmet also absorb the energy that breaks riders’ necks in impacts. Studies in the U.S., show that helmeted motorcyclists actually sufferfewer neck injuries when they crash compared to riders who crash without helmets.

Myth #3 – Car and truck drivers don’t care about motorcyclists! While I know this may be hard to believe, most near misses happen because of the drivers not seeing you on the roadway. We can certainly help avoid this by staying out of vehicles blind-spots and ensuring our lights are in good working order. Remember, if you can’t see a vehicles rearview mirrors, they can’t see you! In an effort to increase my daytime visibility I always run with my high beams on during the day.

Myth #4 – I’m safer on the streets in town, than on the highway!Intersections are still one of the most dangerous places to operate any vehicle through. The fewer the intersections, the less chance for conflict.

Myth # 5 – Loud pipes save lives!Actually, all they do is anger your neighbours, set off car alarms and scare young children. Their sound is mostly projected to the rear and not in the direction you’re travelling so their effect is negligible on your safety.

For more information on safe motorcycling contact your local Canada Safety Council or Bruce Adams, Regional Traffic Safety Consultant, at bruce.adams@gov.ab.ca. Visit www saferoads.alberta.com .