Motorcycles

RIDING STRAIGHT

• Alcohol is involved in 29 percent of all fatal motorcycle crashes.
• In Michigan, you are presumed guilty of operating under the influence of liquor (OUI) if you have a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher.
• An OUI first offense conviction could cost you up to $500 and/or up to 93 days in jail with your driver's license being suspended.
• Riding a motorcycle takes more concentration and focus than driving a car so your best options are to take a cab, or stay at a friends house if you feel you have had too much to drink.

SPEED AND THE MOTORCYCLIST
Many times after a crash you will hear people comment on how fast a cyclist was traveling. While excess speed is an important factor, it is more serious when combined with alcohol and/or rider inexperience.

• More experienced cyclists react quicker in emergency situations.
• The speed and alcohol combination is especially deadly because alcohol slows reaction time.
• An impaired rider has to use emergency skills more often, but has less ability to perform them at any speed.

MOTORCYCLE CHECKLIST

• Helmet: Use a DOT Approved safety helmet that lets you see as far to the sides as necessary. Make sure the fit is snug and the helmet has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding or frayed straps. Also, never wear a helmet that has been involved in a crash or dropped on the ground. This could ruin the effectiveness of the helmet. A full face helmet is strongly recommended for all riders.
• Eye and Face Protection: Use a plastic face shield or goggles to protect eyes from wind, dust, dirt, rain, insects, and stones. Make sure eye or face protection is free of scratches, made of material that does not shatter, and gives a clear view to either side.
• Body Protection: Use of full protective riding gear with over ankle boots is also recommended. Thick leather or other material such as Kevlar will provide greater protection in the event of a crash. Choose clothing with bright or fluorescent colors. This will increase your visibility, alerting other drivers to your presence.
• Tires: Check the air pressure before every ride.
• Fluids: Check gas, oil, broke fluid, and coolant (when applicable).
• Lights: Check brake lights, head- and taillights, and turn signals.
• Hydraulic Fluids: Check sight windows when accessible. At a minimum, check weekly.
• Clutch, Throttle and Brakes: Make sure they work smoothly. Throttle should snap back when let go. Brakes should feel firm and hold motorcycle when applied.
• Mirrors: Clean and adjust both mirrors before starting out.
• Horn: Try the horn. Make sure it works.

MICHIGAN MOTOR VEHICLE LAW
Every rider should be aware of all Michigan's motor vehicle laws, particularly those which apply specifically to motorcycles. These laws can be found in the Michigan Motorcycle Operator Manual available from the Secretary of State and can be obtained at any Secretary of State branch office.

TRAINING, EDUCATION, AND LICENSING
Forty percent of all motorcycle fatalities involved riders are not properly licensed.

Michigan law requires a special endorsement on an driver's license to drive a motorcycle. It is a misdemeanor to drive a motorcycle without an endorsement and can add points to your driving record.

If you are under 18 years of age, you must complete a rider education course approved by the Secretary of State before you can apply for a motorcycle permit. Although permit applicants over 18 years are not required to take an instruction course, it is highly recommended for all new or returning riders of all ages.

Training and education is an ongoing process for every rider and should not end with licensure. The Michigan Motorcycle Safety Program currently provides the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course (BRC) for $25.

Contact your local Secretary of State branch office for additional information and for the nearest Basic Rider Course.

Safety Links and Studies
Michigan Department of State Motorcycle Safety Program
Michigan Traffic Crash Facts
Motorcycle Safety Foundation
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
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