1 state vows new punishments for reckless driving around motorcycles, and it’s the right move
Starting this November, drivers in the Sooner State will face stricter punishments for reckless driving. More specifically, careless drivers will find bloated fines for bad driving around motorcycle riders. And, while some critics might reject the move, it might save lives.
Heartland drivers might want to drive a bit more carefully in November, especially around motorcycle riders
Oklahoma is home to over 150,000 registered motorcycles. But given how vulnerable riders are in motorcycle versus car impacts, the state is adding stricter punishments for reckless or inattentive driving around riders.
It’s Oklahoma’s House Bill 1022, which seeks to add additional fines for reckless driving around motorcycles. More specifically, the bill will institute a $500 fine for any instance of a driver failing to yield and causing a motorcycle crash that “causes bodily harm.”
Fortunately, violators may also be required to attend driving school or face license suspension for their carelessness. The bill goes into effect this November, even without the signature of Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt.
More states should follow Oklahoma’s example to punish reckless driving
Oklahoma’s new House Bill 1022 won’t be popular with everyone. But the state’s lawmakers hold that the move will encourage Oklahoma motorists to pay more attention around motorcycle riders, a uniquely vulnerable population of motorists.
But that’s not an excuse for motorcyclists to relax. As riders, we understand that riding poses a higher risk to life and limb than driving a car, truck, or SUV. However, like any worthwhile discipline, riding requires respect, attentiveness, and, more importantly, practice.
Even with states like Oklahoma trying to raise awareness and punish reckless driving, motorcyclists must remain attentive and ride within their skill level. But nothing beats good gear and training. According to the National Safety Council, helmet use is proven to reduce motorcycle fatalities by 37% for riders and 41% for passengers.
In addition to good gear, training is essential. 90% of motorcycle fatalities involve self-trained riders, and around half of all motorcycle wrecks are single-vehicle accidents.
