The roads are getting safer for everybody but us.

[cptschlongenheimer]

http://www.ghsa.org/html/media/pressreleases/2012/20120522_motorcycle.html

I'm kinda torn here.


Increase helmet use: Helmets are proven to be 37 percent effective at preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41 percent effective for passengers. NHTSA estimates that helmets saved 1,829 motorcyclists’ lives in 2008 and another 822 of the unhelmeted motorcyclists who died in that year would have survived had they worn helmets.
I won't ride without a helmet but don't really believe in helmet laws...
Your guys' thoughts?

[Ghosty]

Take out the extra "http://" in your link. It won't work, and since it's compressed the link, can't just cut&paste it either.

[Wrider]

Here ya go (http://www.ghsa.org/html/media/pressreleases/2012/20120522_motorcycle.html)

[cptschlongenheimer]

Take out the extra "http://" in your link. It won't work, and since it's compressed the link, can't just cut&paste it either.
Sorry...
Better?

[Ted]

http://www.ghsa.org/html/media/pressreleases/2012/20120522_motorcycle.html

I'm kinda torn here.


I won't ride without a helmet but don't really believe in helmet laws...
Your guys' thoughts ?

Same here, i always use my helmet (wish i could say same for jacket and boots) especially after i saw a picture of a gruesome face plant . I believe that picture is somewhere on CSC's many hidden links ....

[cptschlongenheimer]

Here's the article:



New Study: No Progress in Reducing Motorcyclist Deaths
Strengthening Economy and Rising Gas Prices Don’t Bode Well

WASHINGTON, D.C.—A report released today by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) finds that no progress was made in reducing motorcyclist deaths in 2011. Based upon preliminary data from 50 states and the District of Columbia, GHSA projects that motorcycle fatalities remained at about 4,500 in 2011, the same level as 2010. Meanwhile, earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration projected that overall motor vehicle fatalities declined 1.7 percent in 2011, reaching their lowest level since 1949. Motorcycle deaths remain one of the few areas in highway safety where progress is not being made.

The new report – the first state-by-state look at motorcycle fatalities occurring in 2011 – was authored by Dr. James Hedlund of Highway Safety North. Most states have reasonably complete fatality counts for at least the first nine months of 2011, enabling GHSA to confidently project the full year. Dr. Hedlund completed similar projections for GHSA in 2009 and 2010, with both being very close to the final fatality numbers.

Comparing the first nine months of 2010 to 2011, motorcyclist fatalities decreased in twenty-three states, with notable declines in many. In Connecticut, for example, motorcycle deaths dropped 37 percent, while in New York and North Carolina they fell 16 and 21 percent, respectively. GHSA’s member in New York State is the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC). According to Barbara J. Fiala, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of GTSC, the decrease in fatal motorcycle crashes in that state is due to a mix of countermeasures focusing on enforcement, education and engineering: “In New York, we are educating motorists to watch for motorcycles, riders to wear bright protective gear to make themselves more visible, and law enforcement officers on conducting efficient and effective motorcycle checks,” Fiala said. “It is encouraging to see that these efforts, which have been conducted with our state and local partners, are making a difference.”

Twenty-six states and the District Columbia, on the other hand, reported an increase in motorcyclist deaths. In South Carolina and Texas, they rose 26 and 16 percent, respectively, while in California they increased 10 percent. GHSA’s Immediate Past Chairman and Director of California’s Office of Traffic Safety, Christopher J. Murphy, pointed out that the state experienced a dramatic 37 percent decline in motorcycle deaths from 2008 to 2010, so while disappointing, it would not be unexpected to see a smaller decline or even an increase, for 2011.

The economy influences motorcycle travel in several ways. With the economy improving in 2011 and furthering strengthening in 2012, more people will have disposable income for purchasing and riding motorcycles. At the same time, rising gas prices may cause more individuals to choose motorcycles for transportation because of their fuel efficiency.

For his work on behalf of GHSA, Dr. Hedlund compared gas prices, motorcycle registrations, and motorcyclist fatality trends since 1976. He found that for the entire period fatalities closely track registrations, with significant similarities from 1990 to 2008. At the same time, as gas prices increase, fatalities also rise.

Another disturbing trend is the decrease in states with universal helmet laws. Helmet laws are the only motorcycle safety strategy whose effectiveness is rated as five-star in NHTSA’s highly-regarded publication, “Countermeasures That Work.” Only 19 states currently require all riders to wear helmets, down from 26 in 1997. Earlier this year, Michigan repealed its universal helmet law, while similar legislation has been introduced in five other states. No state has enacted a universal helmet law since Louisiana reinstated its requirement in 2004.

Troy Costales, GHSA Chairman said, “It is disappointing that we are not making progress in motorcycle safety, particularly as fatalities involving other motorists continue to decline. As the study notes, the strengthening economy, high gas prices, and the lack of all-rider helmet laws leave me concerned about the final numbers for 2011 and 2012. Every motorcyclist deserves to arrive at their destination safely. These fatality figures represent real people – they’re family, friends and neighbors.”

Costales added, “The good news is that we know how to prevent crashes and the resulting injuries and fatalities involving motorcycle riders’ and their passengers. There are effective strategies that, if implemented, can make a difference.” Specifically, the report recommends states address five issues:

Increase helmet use: Helmets are proven to be 37 percent effective at preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41 percent effective for passengers. NHTSA estimates that helmets saved 1,829 motorcyclists’ lives in 2008 and another 822 of the unhelmeted motorcyclists who died in that year would have survived had they worn helmets.
Reduce alcohol impairment: In 2010, 29 percent of fatally injured riders had a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit of .08, the highest of all motorists.
Reduce speeding: According to the most recent data, 35 percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, and more than half did not involve another vehicle.
Provide motorcycle operator training to all who need or seek it: While all states currently offer training programs, some courses may not be provided at locations and times convenient for riders.
Encourage all drivers to share the road with motorcyclists: According to NHTSA, when motorcycles crash with other vehicles, the latter usually violates the motorcyclist’s right of way. Many states conduct “share the road” campaigns to increase awareness of motorcycles.
This report comes just before Memorial Day Weekend, when at least five large motorcycle rallies are planned across the country, including “Rolling Thunder,” where approximately 100,000 motorcyclists convene in Washington, D.C. to pay tribute to the nation’s veterans. As Chairman Costales noted, “With so many motorcyclists on the road this month, it’s an opportune time to remind all motorists about this critical highway safety issue.”

All data in the report are preliminary. The report presents data through September 2011. State-by-state data are available from GHSA.

# # #

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA)® is a nonprofit association representing the highway safety offices of states, territories, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. GHSA provides leadership and representation for the states and territories to improve traffic safety, influence national policy, enhance program management and promote best practices. Its members are appointed by their Governors to administer federal and state highway safety funds and implement state highway safety plans. Contact GHSA at 202-789-0942 or visit www.ghsa.org. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GHSAhq or follow us on Twitter at @GHSAHQ.

[CYCLE_MONKEY]

I have always worn one, but don't believe in helmet laws.

I've never heard of that outfit listed, and it does NOT look like an offical US Gov't site, so take that in mind when reading their claims.

[Ghosty]

I've never heard of that outfit listed, and it does NOT look like an offical US Gov't site, so take that in mind when reading their claims.
It's not gubbin'ment, it's a non-profit. This is what they "do":

http://www.ghsa.org/html/about/prodserv.html

As for helmet laws, obviously they totally HELP and do no harm, but for lots of you it's another part of "Nanny State" mentality that you hate. Personally I think maybe an age-related enforcement should occur, Nationwide. If you're 18+ or 21+ it's YOUR CHOICE to be stupid or safe. Under-21, then helmets required. Just a random thought, that maybe we should make teenagers use helmets because they can drive, but haven't yet proven they have enough common sense, lol. Opinions?...

I know all the Liberts around just think "nya, just let everyone die if they're stupid, even if they're teens". I respect that, but don't subscribe to that idea. :)

[Chaos]

*puts on tinfoil hat*

IMO. Helmet laws, just like seatbelt laws are all driven by insurance companies and as a revenue generator for local governments. You can't keep making money off of a dead person.

*takes hat off*

I pretty much always wear my seat belt, and always wear my helmet/jacket/boots when I ride. I just don't feel comfortable without them. But I don't agree with big brother "making me" do it!! I'm an adult, if I want to drive down the street without my seatbelt to the store, not even hitting 35mph in the process. Then that should be my choice without needing to worry about a cop giving me a ticket.

I think it's really idiotic that these morons running around on tiny scooters all over town wearing ZERO protection at 35+ mph don't have to wear a helmet, but we have seatbelt laws and have to have a front plate on your car on the very same streets. :jerkoff:

[Ghosty]

But I don't agree with big brother "making me" do it!! I'm an adult...
Yep, hence my age-stipulation idea. Even if just 18+ is a free-for-all, I don't think it's too nanny-state (nor a bad idea) to make 16-17 year old bikers required to have helmets.

[Chaos]

I thought that was already the law here in CO....no??

[Ghosty]

Oh maybe, I have no idea. The thought just popped into my head about making it age-specific. I assumed there was no helmet law in Colorado, regardless of age, just eyewear required.

[Chaos]

No, I'm pretty sure under 18 you have to wear a helmet. I'll google it lol

[Chaos]

This is what I thought, goes for passengers as well
http://www.coloradodot.info/programs/live-to-ride/motorcycle-laws.html


Helmets: Although helmets are proven to save lives, riders age 18 and over are not required to wear helmets in Colorado. However, if the motorcycle operator or passengers are under age 18, they must wear DOT-approved helmets.

I remember this because I've been riding on the street since I was 15 w/ learners permit riding with my dad (1989...eek) And I had to wear one.

[Ghosty]

Ah nice. Ok, so all my last three posts are totally pointless, nevermind, lol.

[Ghost]

*puts on tinfoil hat*

IMO. Helmet laws, just like seatbelt laws are all driven by insurance companies and as a revenue generator for local governments. You can't keep making money off of a dead person.

*takes hat off*

I pretty much always wear my seat belt, and always wear my helmet/jacket/boots when I ride. I just don't feel comfortable without them. But I don't agree with big brother "making me" do it!! I'm an adult, if I want to drive down the street without my seatbelt to the store, not even hitting 35mph in the process. Then that should be my choice without needing to worry about a cop giving me a ticket.

I think it's really idiotic that these morons running around on tiny scooters all over town wearing ZERO protection at 35+ mph don't have to wear a helmet, but we have seatbelt laws and have to have a front plate on your car on the very same streets. :jerkoff:

+1

[cptschlongenheimer]

OK. well, most everybody seems to be on board with some version of that.

How 'bout this?


Reduce alcohol impairment: In 2010, 29 percent of fatally injured riders had a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit of .08, the highest of all motorists.
Reduce speeding: According to the most recent data, 35 percent of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, and more than half did not involve another vehicle.
I'd like to discuss this too.
Don't get me wrong. I strongly believe we should all decide our own risk level.
Do we (motorcyclists) have a culture that promotes risky behavior?
Whether that's skipping gear or drinking too much while hanging out.
It does seem to be common among us.

BTW I'm not trying to start the whole argument over whether it's ok to have a beer or not, you can decide that for each of yourselves. I just want to know how you peeps feel about risk.

[kawasakirob]

Do we (motorcyclists) have a culture that promotes risky behavior?
.

I don't know if it promotes risky behavior, but I think motorcycle riders seem to be more...."adventurous" than most, for the most part of course

[CYCLE_MONKEY]

It's not gubbin'ment, it's a non-profit. This is what they "do":

http://www.ghsa.org/html/about/prodserv.html

As for helmet laws, obviously they totally HELP and do no harm, but for lots of you it's another part of "Nanny State" mentality that you hate. Personally I think maybe an age-related enforcement should occur, Nationwide. If you're 18+ or 21+ it's YOUR CHOICE to be stupid or safe. Under-21, then helmets required. Just a random thought, that maybe we should make teenagers use helmets because they can drive, but haven't yet proven they have enough common sense, lol. Opinions?...

I know all the Liberts around just think "nya, just let everyone die if they're stupid, even if they're teens". I respect that, but don't subscribe to that idea. :)
Well, there's nobody overseeing what they do, so, like I said, take it with a grain of salt. I've never even HEARD of these guys, and I find that very odd.

[Ghost]

I just want to know how you peeps feel about risk.


Risk to self is fine--thus helmet (and seat belt) laws shouldn't exist for Adults. If you want to splatter your brains all over the highway like an overripe watermelon, go for it.

Risk to others is not fine--if you want to drink and "think" that you can "handle" it and your impaired riding/driving makes you a liability to others, and you injure/maim/kill others because of it, then you're wholly liable and responsible for your actions.

Since people cannot seem to regulate themselves when it comes to drinking and driving, I support DUI laws and would be all for lowering their tolerances.

If you want to drink, fine, no issue, just do it so as to not become a hazard to others.


As to whether motorcycling promotes risky behavior--have you ever ridden a bike? Do you ever speed? Do you enjoy the sensation of speeding and enjoy riding above the posted limits in the canyons or on the highways? Do you like to wheelie past cars? Pass on double yellows? All of the above?

Clearly, if most of us were honest, we'd admit to at least some of the above, and clearly all of the above are riskier behaviors than you typically find most motorists are comfortable with.

So, with years of riding experience on track, trail and highway, I'd say that riding does promote risky behavior as part of the lifestyle and "thrill" of riding.

But, there are always risks and risk-takers in life. Unfortunately, our (collective) behavior has been getting us more and more attention from lawmakers and police since Society is becoming more and more "Risk Adverse" and doesn't like the (potential) threat of risky behavior in public...but...so it goes...ride 'em while you can

[D_Sp8s]

*puts on tinfoil hat*

IMO. Helmet laws, just like seatbelt laws are all driven by insurance companies and as a revenue generator for local governments. You can't keep making money off of a dead person.

*takes hat off*

I pretty much always wear my seat belt, and always wear my helmet/jacket/boots when I ride. I just don't feel comfortable without them. But I don't agree with big brother "making me" do it!! I'm an adult, if I want to drive down the street without my seatbelt to the store, not even hitting 35mph in the process. Then that should be my choice without needing to worry about a cop giving me a ticket.

I think it's really idiotic that these morons running around on tiny scooters all over town wearing ZERO protection at 35+ mph don't have to wear a helmet, but we have seatbelt laws and have to have a front plate on your car on the very same streets. :jerkoff:
+1!

As I always tell fellow riders and friends, "As a fellow American I support your freedom to make the decision to wear a helmet or not. But as a fellow rider...WEAR A F***ING HELMET!"

[cptschlongenheimer]

I don't know if it promotes risky behavior, but I think motorcycle riders seem to be more...."adventurous" than most, for the most part of course


Risk to self is fine--thus helmet (and seat belt) laws shouldn't exist for Adults. If you want to splatter your brains all over the highway like an overripe watermelon, go for it.

Risk to others is not fine--if you want to drink and "think" that you can "handle" it and your impaired riding/driving makes you a liability to others, and you injure/maim/kill others because of it, then you're wholly liable and responsible for your actions.

Since people cannot seem to regulate themselves when it comes to drinking and driving, I support DUI laws and would be all for lowering their tolerances.

If you want to drink, fine, no issue, just do it so as to not become a hazard to others.


As to whether motorcycling promotes risky behavior--have you ever ridden a bike? Do you ever speed? Do you enjoy the sensation of speeding and enjoy riding above the posted limits in the canyons or on the highways? Do you like to wheelie past cars? Pass on double yellows? All of the above?

Clearly, if most of us were honest, we'd admit to at least some of the above, and clearly all of the above are riskier behaviors than you typically find most motorists are comfortable with.

So, with years of riding experience on track, trail and highway, I'd say that riding does promote risky behavior as part of the lifestyle and "thrill" of riding.

But, there are always risks and risk-takers in life. Unfortunately, our (collective) behavior has been getting us more and more attention from lawmakers and police since Society is becoming more and more "Risk Adverse" and doesn't like the (potential) threat of risky behavior in public...but...so it goes...ride 'em while you can


I tend to agree with all of this. (Esp. the DUI part)

I'm just wondering if statistics like this:

29 percent of fatally injured riders had a blood alcohol concentration at or above the legal limit of .08, the highest of all motorists.

are similar for other "risk seeking" groups. For instance do rodeo cowboys, fighter pilots, soldiers etc... all fall into categories that are elevated when compared to the overall average? Or are we unique in our steadfast resolve that it's always some other guy who's going to be the one to eat it.

It seems like bikers all have to have a little self delusion about safety. It kinda goes with the territory.

Some of the generalities that the public has about us are indeed based around at least some noticable trends:

Harley riders seem to generally shun gear.

Sport bike riders seem to fly around like coke monkeys trying to achieve warp speed. (yes, guilty)

Scooter riders seem to think that because they're cute (or whatever they think about themselves) the big Mack truck behind them on Federal stuck doing ten under isn't contemplating squishing their slow ass.

[Ghosty]

Some of the generalities that the public has about us are indeed based around at least some noticable trends:

Harley riders seem to generally shun gear.

Scooter riders seem to think that because they're cute (or whatever they think about themselves) the big Mack truck behind them on Federal stuck doing ten under isn't contemplating squishing their slow ass.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v231/SpectralCat/Emoticons/werd.gif

Most scooters I see have these puny bicycle-type helmets it seems. I understand the attraction (and comfort) of riding around the city comfortable. But I think a serious education campaign needs to be put in place (by the dealers like Sportique & Erico maybe?) aimed at them, concerning gear. They all think "putting" around town (not on highway) is way more safer and slower speeds, etc. so they don't need gear. Couldn't be more false and misinformed, imo...


Sport bike riders seem to fly around like coke monkeys trying to achieve warp speed. (yes, guilty)
Many of us have gotten much MUCH wiser with age. I hate to see what would happen if I had my current (Warp-11 Hyperspace-capable) bike back in my 20's. I honestly think I might not be alive today, with the crap gear, adrenaline, and fearless attitude we had back then!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v231/SpectralCat/Emoticons/scared.gif