AAA: Motorcycle Fatalities Up 23 Percent In Michigan Over Last Year
DEARBORN (WWJ) - AAA Michigan is sounding the alarm over a rise in motorcycle fatalities, putting the state on pace as the tenth highest in the nation for such crashes.
Even though motorcycles make up only three percent of all registered vehicles in Michigan, they accounted for 14 percent of fatal crashes over the last year.
According to AAA, Michigan motorcycle fatalities rose from 112 to 138 between 2014 and 2015. That's up 23 percent from the year before.
The estimated economic cost to society of each motorcycle fatality is $1.48 million, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Economic costs include lost productivity, medical, legal, court, emergency services and insurance costs, property damage, and workplace losses.
"While helmet laws are a controversial issue, AAA strongly supports helmet laws," Susan Hiltz, AAA Michigan Public Affairs Director, said in a statement. "Bottom line -- helmets save lives."
Helmets have been proven to be 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle fatalities in a crash, according NHTSA. In other words, for every 100 motorcycle riders killed in crashes while not wearing a helmet, 37 of them could have been saved had all 100 worn helmets.
"Bikers should do everything possible to make themselves visible to motorists while riding," added Hiltz. "Motorists need to keep their attention on the task of driving and be alert for increased motorcycle traffic. Motorcyclists can increase their visibility by riding with their lights on or adding reflective gear to their bike. AAA reminds everyone to always drive sober. Whether you're hitting the road on a Harley or a hot rod, alcohol and other drugs seriously impair your ability to drive safely."
AAA recommends the following safety tips:
Motorists:
•Respect motorcycle riders. Motorcycles are vehicles too and have the same privileges as a car. Give them ample room.
•Look and Listen. Even if a motorcycle is loud, don't expect to hear it. Actively look for motorcycles in traffic.
•Leave Room. Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcyclists. Uneven terrain, wet roads and heavy traffic often require a motorcycle rider to react and maneuver differently than automobiles.
•Be aware. Take extra caution when making a left-hand turn. Most automobile-versus-motorcycle crashes occur during left-hand turns.
•Don't drive distracted. A driver who takes their eyes off the road for two seconds doubles their risk of getting into a crash.
Motorcyclists:
•Wear safety gear. Helmets that meet a high protection standard, eye wear, closed-toe footwear and protective clothing reduce risk of injury or death in a crash. The only thing between a biker and the ground is protective gear.
•Be visible. Keep headlights, marker and taillights on at dusk and dark or rainy weather. Wear bright clothing or put reflective strips on your bike to be more visible to other motorists. Avoid being in the blind spots of cars and trucks by following three to four seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
•Use sound judgment. Avoid weaving between lanes while riding. Be sure to use your signals and stick to the speed limit.
•Get proper training. Completing a motorcycle safety course can not only make you a better rider, but save you money on your motorcycle insurance.
