Warm weather means more motorcycle rides — and crashes

Members of the Latin American Motorcycle Association at the 2023 Springfield Veterans’ Day Parade.
Republican file photo

When the weather is warm and the roads are dry, many motorcyclists take to the street.

But Kimberly D’Angelo, operations manager of Springfield-based ambulance company American Medical Response, said it is also when ambulance crews see an uptick in motorcycle-involved injuries.

D’Angelo said that in the first four months of 2026, AMR responded to more than 30 motorcycle crashes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, per miles traveled, motorcyclists were almost 27 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle crash than passenger car occupants. At the state level, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation crash portal logged 1,661 motorcycle crashes, 61 of which involved a fatality.

Injuries in a motorcycle crash vary widely, she said. They largely depend on the clothing worn by the operator and any passengers. If people wear full pants, a jacket and close-toed shoes, they may escape with bruises. If not, she said first responders are far more likely to see road rashes and lacerations.

“Helmets and speed are a big factor in if someone’s able to walk away,” she said. Massachusetts is one of 18 states that require helmets for all motorcycle riders. There are several types of helmets, from half helmet “skull cap” styles to open face or full coverage helmets. But D’Angelo said full-face helmets provide far more protection than other types, shielding the entire head, face and chin.

Since 1982, the “Check Twice — Save A Life, Motorcycles Are Everywhere” campaign has urged drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks to be cautious and watch for motorcyclists. D’Angelo said drivers should check their blind spots, particularly when passing or changing lands and at intersections. She also urged motorcycle operators to exercise caution when riding a motorcycle, follow the speed limit and rules of the road.

Best practices from NHTSA

• The right gear: Always wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Brightly colored clothing with reflective material makes motorcyclists more visible. Arms and legs should be completely covered, ideally by leather or heavy denim. Ankle-high boots or shoes and gloves are recommended.
• Practice makes perfect: Take the time to get accustomed to a new or unfamiliar motorcycle and see how it handles in a variety of conditions. Once you feel comfortable with your bike, you can take it into traffic.
• Before the ride: Check a motorcycle’s tire pressure and tread depth, hand and foot brakes, headlights, signal indicators and fluid levels before you ride. You should also check for signs of oil or gas leaks. Secure and balance any cargo, and adjust the suspension and tire pressure to accommodate the extra weight.
• Passengers: Passengers should mount the motorcycle only after the engine has started; sit as far forward as possible, directly behind the driver and keep both feet on the footrests, with legs away from the muffler. The passenger should firmly hold on to the driver’s waist, hips or belt; limit movement and lean at the same time and in the same direction as you do.
• Rules of the road: Obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits and lane markings; ride with the flow of traffic and leave plenty of room between your bike and other vehicles. Always check behind you and signal before you change lanes. Do not ride while under the influence of alcohol and drugs.