In this day and time with gas prices through the roof there are more and more motorcycles on the road and that can spell disaster for a lot of riders. Motorcycles account 1 in every 8 motor vehicle accidents on today's highways according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. What is the deciding factor is these crashes? Inexperince, youthful exuberance or a need for speed.
Speed is the number one cause for most fatalities on the road today. Motorcycle sales have reach a all time high in the past few years many can speculate the reason why maybe its gas prices or just plain old fun.
Ages 20-29 has the highest fatality rate due to speed and and other high risk stunts though alcohol does not seem to be a large factor. Motorcycle sales have increased 21% in the ages between 40-49 bike insurance has increased also, and the fatality rate has started to grow tramendously with alcohol being the main cause for these deaths. Drinking and driving is dangerous enough and you have 4 wheels under you with 2 its twice as easy to wreck.
Helmet laws are in place in most states to keep these numbers down though its done little for the high speed crashes on sport bikes. These sport tuned motorcycles can reach speeds of 200 mph in the blink of an eye. With the number of riders growing the death tolls will continue to rise as well.
So where do we go from here how do we fix this problem? Do we need stricter laws governing the top speed of these motorcycles or more law enforcement to discourage the drinking and riding? Perhaps routine road blocks around popular motorcycle hangouts or clubs?
As of right now anyone over the age of 18 with a licence to drive a car can apply for a motorcycle permit regardless of back round or driving record and hold that permit for 1 month and that a driving test to get their licence. Some states offer a riding course that can be very expensive perhaps lowering the price and making it a mandatory course would have a effect on these staggering numbers.
Helmets can save life's if the speed limit is observed these helmets are rated for a certain speed and for on road use only so chances are you will not see a pro rider on the drag strip wearing this type of helmet.
Proper attire for riding is available through all motorcycle dealers such as Honda or Harley Davidson. Leather pants and a jacket don't just make you look cool they provide protection from the weather and the road. So in conclusion be safe out there my friends wear you helmet, jacket, and leather pants slow down a little don't drink and ride and we all can enjoy the road all we want.

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Article Submitted By: Mike
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