The 78th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally roared into the Black Hills the first weekend of August. Over the next week, more than 500,000 riders are expected to flood the highways and crowd the streets of numerous towns, injecting millions of dollars into the local economy.
A near-constant drone of bikes throughout the region should remind drivers of increased road risks.
With the influx of traffic, frequent accidents, dozens of injuries and multiple fatalities annually, it’s easy for drivers to blame the motorcyclists. However, according to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, when motorcycles and other vehicles collide, it is usually the other (non-motorcycle) driver who violates the motorcyclist’s right-of-way.
As drivers continue their daily routes during the Rally, remember that:
• Motorcycles are smaller visual targets and, because they typically make up a minor portion of traffic on the road, their visual recognition is reduced. Check your blind spots. Then check them again. Train your eyes to scan for smaller vehicles.
• Motorcyclists often slow down by downshifting or rolling off the throttle, their brake light will not always indicate reduced speeds. Allow 3 to 4 seconds of following distance.
• Motorcyclists adjust position within a lane to be seen more easily and to minimize the effects of road debris, passing vehicles and wind. Share the road. Understand that motorcyclists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to be reckless or to show off.
• There are more than 500,000 more drivers on the road this month. Put the phone down, focus on the road and don’t be a distracted driver.
Motorcyclists enjoying the Rally should know that, amidst the fun, there are increased risks to their safety.
• To look the part of a Sturgis rider, don the leather jacket. To return home safely, wear the additional protective gear.
• The State of South Dakota requires all riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet that has been approved by the South Dakota Department of Transportation. They also require a motorcycle operator to wear an eye protective device unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen of sufficient height and design that protects the motorcycle operator.
• Even if you are over 18 years of age, wearing a helmet reduces your risk of injury should a crash occur. Never use a helmet that was worn during a crash, as microfractures could render it useless in another incident.
• Be a capable operator. The curving highways, graveled backroads and unpredictable wildlife of the Black Hills can be difficult to navigate. Knowing how to adjust to these hazards is a must for visitors.
• Always assume drivers do not see you. Be aware of blind spots and use correct signals.
• Don’t drink and ride. According to the 1981 Hurt Report—the largest study ever conducted on motorcycle accident causation—alcohol is a factor in 50 percent of all bike wrecks.