Story by Nick Cumberland

Motorcycles are being seen more often cruising our local roadways thanks to the great weather that our South Mississippi springs produce. Motorcycles provide one of the most exhilarating rides out there, but some riders fail to get the proper training to operate their bikes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycles are by far the most dangerous type of motorized vehicle on the road. Motorcyclists face 42.49 fatalities per 100 million miles of travel versus 2.1 per 100 million miles of travel for passenger vehicles. That staggering statistic is one that could be lowered by the proper training for motorcyclist, and motorists giving bikes the same courtesy as they would any other passenger vehicle.

Lack of training is the biggest factor in most motorcycle accidents. Although many know how to start, shift gears, and basic maneuvering, there are national groups aimed at helping bike riders attain the proper training they need. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a national non-profit organization aimed at providing online safety tips as well as a national listing of the basic motorcycle safety course known as RiderCourse. The RiderCourse offers instruction in proper braking, shifting, defensive driving, and many other topics. Their website (www.msf-usa.org) offers video clips for riders that want to brush up on their riding techniques. For new riders, the site offers courses at many locations, including Slidell, Mobile, and Picayune, to get trained on all aspects of riding. A great bonus of this program is that some states will wave the riding and/or written test when visiting the licensing bureau for your motorcycle endorsement.

It is no secret that eliminating consumption of alcoholic beverages while riding can prevent riding accidents. In 2006 the US saw almost 5000 motorcycle fatalities with 1/3 of those involving alcohol. Amazingly enough with the helmet laws throughout the US, 41.8% of fatalities occurred while the rider was not wearing a helmet. As an American we are all well aware of our rights and the feeling of independence, but just like seatbelts the statistical data compiled is hard to argue. Helmets come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Not only will many helmets make you look cool, they can also save your life.

Passenger cars turning left accounted for 40% of two vehicle fatalities. Motorcycles are hard to see for some motorists. Driving your bike with your light on can help alert other traffic to your whereabouts on the road, and motorists should take that extra second to look more than once before proceeding into traffic.

Motorists and bikers have always seemed to have a love hate relationship, but with just a little patience and concentration both groups can learn to share the roadways. So while your out there on your bike, remember to always operate your bike within posted speed limits and proper operating techniques, because there is nothing better than returning home to loved ones after a great ride.