Motorcycle Safety Tips: How to Avoid Injury

Updated December 28, 2018 | By Wilson Kehoe Winingham staff

Warm weather has finally arrived in Indiana, and with that comes more motorcycles on the roadways. Motorcycle accidents can be avoided if drivers are more aware and alert while driving. I am a personal injury attorney who has handled motorcycle accident cases, so I feel compelled to share useful information about motorcycle safety.

Always Wear a Helmet

You probably know this and it should be obvious, but wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 69%. If you’re going to ride a motorcycle, wear a helmet! I cannot stress that enough! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motorcycle accidents account for almost 13% of all fatalities on the roadways, so make sure you’re protected.

Indiana Motorcycle Regulations

Indiana motorcycle law requires eye protection if you are under the age of 18. Also required is the use of a helmet for those under the age of 18 or anyone who holds an Indiana motorcycle learner’s permit. Motorcycles in the state of Indiana are also required to have turn signals, a speedometer, and a rear-view mirror.

Safety Precautions

I highly recommend all motorcycle riders take a motorcycle safety course. ABATE of Indiana offers training and safety courses. If you complete the course and don’t already have an operator license, you will be given a waiver, which will allow you to skip the riding test to obtain your operator license. After you’ve completed the safety course, take your completion card and permit to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to receive your motorcycle endorsement. The cost of the motorcycle safety course through ABATE of Indiana is $75, but it’s highly recommend.