Statistics show that motorcycle riders are 22 times more likely to die from accidents than other motorists. This is because of the design and build of a motorcycle, which doesn’t have any protective elements for riders, unlike cars. Fortunately, thanks to technological innovations, motorcycle safety is gradually improving.
If you’re wondering about these inventions, this article is for you. It explores the best motorcycle safety innovations. But if you’re ever involved in an accident, remember to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to assist you in dealing with the legal process.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Common and Severe
Before we dive into the various innovations, it’s crucial to understand why motorcycle accidents are common on U.S. roads. Some major causes include:
- Motorist negligence: Drivers can be selfish when sharing the road with riders. They often ignore them when changing lanes or joining main highways.
- Riders disobeying traffic rules: Rogue motorcyclists are notorious for speeding past intersections or disobeying traffic lights. This can confuse other road users and lead to unnecessary accidents and severe damage.
- Mechanical issues: Data shows that 14% of annual motorcycle accidents are due to brake failure. Also, tire busts cause 23% of the incidents.
- Poor visibility: Low light conditions caused by weather or a lack of street lights are a major cause of motorcycle-vehicle collisions.
Top 5 Motorcycle Safety Innovations
Here are technological inventions that improve your safety as a motorcyclist.
1. Improved Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, ABS has reduced accidents by 22%. Initiating the braking feature adjusts the bike’s stopping power by minimizing wheel locking. Therefore, you’ll get more stability and comfortable control while braking.
Additionally, motorcycles equipped with this feature come with wheel locking sensors. Newer brands include sensors for both front and rear wheels, further improving a driver’s confidence.
2. Tire Pressure Monitors
Tire blowouts can be severe, depending on the biker’s speed. The addition of monitoring technology immediately alerts you when your tire pressure is low or if there’s an issue.
Low tire pressure has several disadvantages, including:
- Excessive fuel consumption/ low fuel efficiency
- Damage to the bike
- Limited motorcycle handling
3. Adaptive Cruise Control
Do you usually drive on busy roads? If so, purchasing a bike with Adaptive Cruise Control can help you maintain a safe distance. Additionally, it alerts you to other motorists’ actions.
For instance, it can alert you when a vehicle in front of you slows down. This is useful when approaching blind spots or in poor visibility situations.
4. Airbag Vests
Airbag vests are excellent if you’re an adrenaline junkie. The safety gear has special technology to notice your environment and conveniently deploy in case of collisions or falls. It mostly protects your chest and back, helping you avoid severe injuries to the spinal cord and chest.
5. Traction Control
Traction control is crucial if you want to fully test your bike’s performance capabilities. You can comfortably navigate tight bends at high speeds and enjoy the thrill of open highways. Additionally, it offers stability on slippery or oily roads, thus improving your riding experience on rainy days.
Conclusion
Motorcycle brands consistently exploit technology to offer the best safety solutions. Unfortunately, only newer brands offer all the mentioned features. However, most motorcycles include essential inventions like ABS. As a rider, get an airbag vest to minimize injuries and impact in case of an accident.
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