MOTORCYCLING SAFETY AND THE INDIVIDUAL RIDER (ONTARIO, CANADA)

Motorcycle accident statistics (1957-1978) for Ontario, Canada are reviewed, with particular attention to the effects of compulsory countermeasures. Motorcycle numbers and types and rider population experience are considered and compared with statistics for other motor vehicle classes. Compulsory motorcyclist driving tests and licenses have contributed to a recent steady decline in the motorcycle accident rate. Compulsory safety helmets have resulted in a 16% decrease in the motorcyclist death rate. A law requiring daytime use of motorcycle lights was not found to have a significant effect on the accident rate. The lower accident rates may be related to fewer novice riders in the motorcyclist population. The risk of a motorcycle accident in Ontario is 36.4% lower than for all other motor vehicle accidents. The risk of being injured while riding a motorcycle is equivalent to that for driving a car, while the risk of death is 3.5 times greater. Statistics on convictions indicate a general disregard for traffic laws and a high incidence of alcohol use among motorcyclists. The Canadian Vintage Motorcycle Group and the Motorcycle Patrol of the Ontario Provincial Police (1931-1944 record) are cited as low-risk motorcyclist groups. A philosophy for safe and enjoyable motorcycling is discussed under the following headings: mental attitude, concentration, observation, anticipation, assessment, action and counteraction, technique, technical factors, and safety systems.

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • Conference held in Washington, D.C., 18-23 May 1980. Also published in HS-029 702, International Motorcycle Safety Conference Proceedings. Volume 3, p 1193-1222.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Motorcycle Safety Foundation

    780 Elkridge Landing Road
    Linthicum, MD  United States  21090
  • Authors:
    • Johnson, A F
  • Publication Date: 1980

Media Info

  • Features: References;
  • Pagination: 30 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00390516
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  • Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 713
  • Files: HSL, USDOT
  • Created Date: Nov 30 1984 12:00AM