5 Motorcycle Myths Debunked

Numerous motorcycle myths exist, and some can result in disastrous situations. How often have you heard a buddy say something and realized it’s total bunk? If you’re anything like me, that’s a common occurrence!

Check Out These 5 Motorcycle Myths Debunked!

1. Loud pipes save lives. Well, not exactly. On the surface it seems to make sense- make enough noise and drivers on the road will notice you. A study showed, however, that motorcycles with modified exhaust systems actually crash more frequently. This may be due to the fact that those riders may ride more aggressively or experience fatigue from the blaring noise. Regardless of the reason, this myth is debunked. If you want to be loud, invest in a loud horn, or wear bright colors to really get drivers attention.
2. Helmets make it too difficult to see the road. Nope, that one’s busted, too. Numerous studies have evaluated the number of motorcyclists wearing helmets in accidents compared to the number going without. Riders without helmets are consistently more likely to be involved in accidents. This may be because they are less cautious when they ride. It could be that helmets reduce road noise and allow the wearer to concentrate on the road better. Regardless of the reason, helmets interfering with vision is not a leading contributor of accidents.
3. Side roads are safer than the highway. I admit, I was guilty of believing this one. After all, less speed and less traffic is safer, right? Turns out, we’re wrong! Highways are inherently safer for motorcyclists. Even though speeds are faster, traffic only travels one direction, and most highways have cleared areas to both sides that can provide a biker a place to go in the event of a near collision.
4. Splitting lanes is dangerous. Nope, it seems not! A study in California has actually shown that splitting lanes reduces the risks of accidents, at least in heavy traffic situations. Of course, it’s always important to be aware of the laws in your area before you start splitting lanes, as no one wants a traffic violation!
5. One beer is okay. Nope, it’s not. How often do you have just ONE beer? And even if you do, if you are dehydrated or have not eaten, that single beer may affect you more than you thought. As we age, our bodies slow in their ability to metabolize alcohol. That’s why you struggle more with hangovers. If you plan on drinking, stay off the roads.

As motorcycle injury attorneys, we have seen the results of crashes when people mistakenly believe motorcycle myths and make poor choices. We urge all bikers to know the facts and follow safe riding standards! And if you are ever involved in an accident, call Kass & Moses for the bikers who are also attorneys!