When a motorcyclist is involved in a motor vehicle accident, the likelihood they will suffer serious injuries is great. The summer of 2011 was a particularly dangerous time for motorcyclists around Ohio with a record number of fatal motor cycle accidents being reported. In an effort to decrease the number of motorcycle accidents and resulting fatalities, Ohio police have partnered with motorcycle dealers to promote safety and increase awareness.

While it's critical that motorcyclists follow safe driving practices while on the road, sometimes there is little a motorcyclist can do to avoid being involved in an accident. When hit by a car or truck, a motorcyclist is likely to be thrown from their motorcycle. Injuries that are common when this occurs include broken bones, road rash and head and brain trauma.

One of the most important ways a motorcyclist can protect themselves from injury is to wear a helmet. The long-lasting effects of a head or brain injury can be devastating and forever alter a person's life. Under Ohio law, only motorcycle riders who have been riding less than a year are required to wear a helmet. It's wise, however, for all motorcyclists to wear helmets as it's one of the only defenses they have to prevent severe injury when involved in an accident.

In addition to encouraging motorcyclists to wear helmets, Ohio police and motorcycle dealers across the state also encourage motorcycle safety courses. It's important for motorcyclists to know how to avoid being involved in an accident as the stakes are much greater for them than the driver of a car or truck.

Source: Lancaster Eagle-Gazette, "Police attribute drop in motorcycle crashes to increased awareness, safety," Francesca Sacco, Sept. 14, 2012