Motorcycling in most parts of Tennessee can be a true thrill. With the state’s beautiful valleys and scenic drives, it comes as no surprise that thousands of motorcyclists hit highways and interstates every day. Yet in addition to the undoubtedly carefree lifestyle that largely characterizes motorcycling, there also exists a significant number of motorcycle accidents each year. Yet many ask, who should call the verdict on helmet use, and should motorcyclists have the freedom to ride helmetless? 

The Times Free Press reported on an apparent rise in motorcycle accidents in Tennessee in recent years, but also provides state research findings that helmets are 37 percent effective at preventing fatal injuries to drivers. To spread information on motorcycle safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hands out grants to states for motorcyclist training and motorist awareness. According to Times Free Press, the Government Accountability Office stressed that the grant money could be better spent if Congress relaxed guidelines and allowed states to have more flexibility regarding motorcycling laws. Such flexibility could open doors for new ways to increase helmet use, educate police and increase motorcycle safety awareness.  

More recently, WKRN News pointed out that Tennessee lawmakers have been reconsidering helmet laws in the state. However, despite the warnings of health and safety experts, many speak out against tightening the grip on helmet laws. The proposed bill does not specify the areas where motorcyclists will have the freedom to ride without helmets, but many riders stress the importance of individual choice. Although the bill has not yet passed, lawmakers still grapple with the difficult topic of motorcycle accidents and the government’s role in enforcing helmet use.    

Every day, there are motorcycle accidents on the roads of Knoxville. Many of them are the result of rider error and misinformation. Some bikers are not aware that some of the information they hear and believe about riding is false. Although these myths are meant to educate and inspire them to stay safe while they are out riding on the roads, they do the opposite. 

Motorcycle crashes make up 14 percent of all vehicle accidents, states the Insurance Information Institute. Riders who are not properly informed about what is truth and fiction may find themselves in danger of getting hurt. Motorcyclists should make themselves aware of the following biker myths and their truths so they can take measures to improve their safety. 

Helmets reduce visibility 

Bikers in Tennessee must wear helmets when they ride. However, many of them do not because they do not believe in their effectiveness. There is also a common belief that helmets reduce visibility, hearing and are unattractive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bikers who wear helmets are 67 percent less likely to sustain head injuries. Bikers should follow the law and wear their helmets. They do not impact visibility or hearing and can help keep them from suffering serious, debilitating injuries and death. 

Underinflating new tires 

Some motorcyclists believe they do not have to break in new tires if they under inflate them. However, most motorcycle tire manufacturers recommend for bikers to break them in first. Many riders find that new tires are slick and slippery. Breaking them in gets rid of the slipperiness and increases their grip. Underinflating tires is a dangerous practice that reduces road traction, making it easier for riders to lose control of and fall off their vehicles. 

With the risk of accidents increasing every day, bikers should assess their riding knowledge and behaviors and wear the right riding gear. They should also take refresher riding courses and review proper safety procedures so they can protect themselves and other motorists on the streets.

The many motorcyclists riding their bikes throughout Knox County may serve as a reminder to all those who drive on the area’s roads of the need to share them with all vehicles. Motorists may often believe in a perceived heirarchy on the road, with themselves being at the top of it and motorcyclists needing to accomodate them. Yet that is not the case. Motorcycles are afforded the same freedoms as any other vehicle when it comes to the use of the roadway. Sadly, that fact may often not be realized, and when it is not, the results are often devastating for the motorcyclists involved. 

This point was sadly reaffirmed in an accident that recently occurred near Fort Campbell outside of Clarksville. A motorcycle driven by a young man was struck by an SUV attempting to make a turn. While the accident is still under investigation, preliminary reports state that the driver of the SUV failed to recognize that the motorcyclist had the right of way. The young man, who was serving at the base as a member of the Army, was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the SUV were also injured and taken for treatment at a local hospital.

Motorists may rarely intend to cause harm to motorcyclists. Rather, their actions may simply be due to a lack of familiarity with the state’s traffic laws. However, a lack of knowledge of the law still may not absolve them from liability in cases similar to the one described above. In cases where the loved ones of motorcyclists killed or injured in collisions with cars look to seek compensation, having an experienced attorney on their sides may help bolster their claims. 

Source: The Miami County Republic “PHS grad killed in motorcycle accident” McCauley, Brian, July 24, 2017