The DEADLY Crash No One Talks About!

Motorcycle crashes come in many forms, from common incidents to more severe ones that aren’t always discussed. Some crashes happen at slow speeds, while others involve high-speed losses of control, often when a rider is alone. These single-vehicle crashes are especially dangerous, as help may not be nearby, and they highlight the importance of skill and self-awareness on the road.
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[@MCrider]

Pinning this comment from the thread in case it gets lost in the shuffle... @garyoneill8868 Let me repost your question here first, then an answer. You asked, "The bit noone mentions in training is what do you do when the car is sitting steady facing you, indicator flashing....... you've slowed considerably in case it turns in front of you........ and it turns in front of you 20' before you get there. There's no stopping in that case; swerving means it's highly likely you'll still hit the car and take flying lessons. Fwiw I watch all of your videos and enjoy them but would like an opinion on this please." If I understand your question correctly you are asking what do you do in a potential crash situation that is impossible to avoid? The answer is simple in an unavoidable crash situation... You crash. There are some situations with the best road skills and the best road strategy that are not avoidable. Does that mean that all of this is for nothing? No. You slow to the best of your ability before the crash to limit the impact. You swerve if that is the better option to reduce the impact. Or brake and escape to reduce the impact if that is the best option. None of these skills happen very well without training. So practice... Then... Before the ride you put on the best protective gear that you can afford and you wear it every ride because people turning in front of you do not make appointments on your calendar...they just show up unannounced. And from my personal perspective, and most importantly, get right with God today by turning to faith in Christ. NO ONE is promised tomorrow. Even if the driver pulling in front of you does not get you, something one day will. I can't make many guarantees but the fact that we will all one day die is as sure as it gets. Thanks for the question! Kevin

[@jamesbrouse9257]

Kevin, I’d add if possible try and swerve to the left of the car making the left to avoid its grill and forward progress.

[@rcraven1013]

@@jamesbrouse9257 Sometimes we aim at the wrong side of things particularly those vehicle coming out on us from a side street and into our path. Its logical that if one sees the likely hood of that happening that one heads away from a possible impact but actually heads in the the same direction of the vehicle coming out. As he emerges he is leaving space behind him and so would it be practicable to actually aim to his rear end rather than confrontation to his front end. By doing so we might have a chance of not hitting him as we are going in the opposite direction to his travel or if we do hit him its at a slower speed or with less impact and maybe a glancing blow. This is maybe a fall of and preferred to a full blown head on or side on to the front end of his vehicle. Just maybe worth thinking about.

[@paulreed3716]

Great wisdom,thank you.

[@matusknives]

As someone who plans to get the first motorcycle next year, I am listening very carefully. Thank you for these videos.

[@MCrider]

That's awesome!!! Make sure and get a bike you can handle and never stop practicing and training!!!

[@matusknives]

@@MCrider I am looking at Royal Enfield models. The best option would probably be a used Scram 411 (I just find the bike super cool and the price makes a lot of sense), but that new Bear is really tempting. I am already looking forward to training (both taking lessons with an instructor first as I did my license 25 years ago, but never rode a bike ever since) and taking some extra courses and of course practicing.

[@NoFrictionZone]

​@@matusknives that Bear is looking sharp. Did you check the 400 Triumphs?

[@matusknives]

@@NoFrictionZone Thank you. I ideed did - cool looking bikes, but they are yet charm me the way some of the RE machines do.

[@garyoneill8868]

The bit noone mentions in training is what do you do when the car is sitting steady facing you, indicator flashing....... you've slowed considerably in case it turns in front of you........ and it turns in front of you 20' before you get there. There's no stopping in that case; swerving means it's highly likely you'll still hit the car and take flying lessons. Fwiw I watch all of your videos and enjoy them but would like an opinion on this please.

[@DrMark920]

SOoooooo, you described my single-vehicle corning crash from six years ago. Yup. My fault. I've been watching and learning and appreciate your wisdom.

[@Robert-xs2mv]

Getting one’s ambition getting ahead of one’s ability. Or just simple target fixation and lack of attention.

[@lenluksa326]

This video ranks amongst your best Sir! Even the most seasoned riders inadvertently place/find themselves in situations where they must implement high level road strategies backed by above average riding skills. And you are all about those two things. Thank you for all you do for our riding community. You are one of the best coaches on KZbin.

[@oldgeezerproductions]

Thanks for all the lifesaving information Kevin. Target fixation is huge. The only, and I mean ONLY fixation a motorcyclist should have is the curve itself. I learned that when I was fixated on my speedometer and drifted into the other lane while in a curve. A major leg operation to fix a shattered tibial plateau and two weeks in a rehab hospital and the knowledge of how utterly close I came to being killed, sure made me a believer.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

Great tips your tips are all relevant. Practice practice practice. I an old rider 69 year old riding since 12. I make errors so I practice.😊

[@kjeldpedersen666]

Very good advice indeed. Think the most important one is never to go faster than you’re able to stop within the distance you can see. That means that you will have to go much slower than you think in many instances. And yes, practice your skills…

[@jamesbrouse9257]

Making a corner worse than it is can happen when you try to get it over with too quickly. Even starting from the outside if we lean our bike too early the end of the curve ends up being far sharper than if we wait until the exit is seen.

[@mildyproductive9726]

And this problem is exacerbated by the relatively recent fad/encouragement of trail braking on the street. Racers trail brake in corners where they do this on purpose. That's because their track is so wide, they can sometimes shave distance and time by doing it like this. The more brake you hold into a corner, the more you will make this early line shape. But you don't have a giant track all to yourself.

[@jackswisher3171]

Thanks for discussing "Lane departure on a curve;" it can be deadly. Two Harley riders died since 2018 on curves in the tiny town where I live, at road limits of 35 mph and 45 mph. Neither rider left any rubber on the pavement from emergency braking, they simply departed the lane on a curve and didn't survive. One man was crushed under his bike and broke his neck; the other rider caught his face on a metal guy wire from a utility pole. Sad.

[@rooster3019]

The wreck risk I fear most is getting hit from behind when stopped in intersection. I do what I can to have an escape. If the intersection is clear and safe I proceed regardless any traffic light. I was stopped by LEO once for that and I explained the risk and potential tragety I prompting my violation. She thought about it and told me to be careful and have a good day. Sorry about not being a club joiner, that is just me.

[@MCrider]

No need to apologize, thanks for watching!

[@Robnord1]

So after the initial stop, you are running a red light before it turns green?

[@grandprixjames]

Just stay alive. Do whatever it takes to get home safely. Every state needs to legalize lane filtering and dead red laws. My state doesn't have either of those. I do what it takes.

[@rooster3019]

@@Robnord1 only if the intersection is clear

[@conniewaite1371]

Get a brake free light for the back of your helmet! No wiring needed

[@zenryder1959]

All very good points! I would add that a very common reason for too much speed in a corner (resulting in a low or high side) is riding too fast to try to keep up with the group. Fear of being left behind…because the route was not announced in advance and/or the group doesn’t stop at forks in the road or other transitions to wait for slower riders to catch up. It’s one thing to announce “ride your own ride” and another to encourage it and make it possible.

[@markhottmann3430]

All good points. One I think you missed and maybe it goes without saying, but alcohol use seems to be a common factor in a lot of motorcycle crashes. It’s a factor in many of the points you made.

[@BlackBearSixTV]

Per safety: I use one of the Air Bag vests that inflates if one becomes separated from the bike. Apparently these are widely used in Europe - but not so much in the USA. Any opinions on this issue?

[@stacyodom1746]

Thanks Kevin! Love this tutorial video.

[@MCrider]

My pleasure!

[@AdamSuperAC]

I wanted to say thank you Sir. Your vids are fantastic. Motorcycle safety is Paramount !!! Hello from Australia !!!! 54 year old returning rider. 😎

[@MCrider]

Thanks so much!

[@rclark09-oi5jy]

Over the past few years, the instrument panel on new motorcycles have become more complex. I recently purchased a Tiger 900 GT Pro that allows the rider to make suspension adjustments and view data such as engine temperature and tire pressure while riding. Pretty cool, but I've found that it can be a potentially dangerous distraction if one doesn't exercise some self-discipline. After a couple of "eye-opening moments" I've taught myself to avoid going through the menus if I'm on anything other than a straight road with no traffic. If it involves anything more than a couple of seconds I pull over to a stop and make whatever adjustment I need to make.

[@MCrider]

Great tip and a good idea for a future video.

[@gtptvanbuuren3795]

Thank You.

[@thomasheino7219]

Your information saves lives. God bless you.

[@MCrider]

Glad to help

[@johnnylightning1491]

Why would anyone riding a motorcycle ever line up on the inside of a curve is beyond my comprehension. You are sharpening the curve and you can't see as far ahead, two really bad things in any vehicle. This is one time when you should take your cue from racers, make that curve as big as possible so you have the most time to react and you make the curve as easy as possible to navigate. Keep the good stuff coming Kevin.

[@conniewaite1371]

@@johnnylightning1491 making a wider turn may put you too close to oncoming traffic who may swinging wide for the curve,is that not so?

[@RaymondBligh]

Thanks again Kevin!

[@MartyGalbraith-ls8oc]

enjoyed the informative video---having a GPS has always helped, particularly riding on roads for the first time---it will indicate curves and the sharpness and how the road is constructed-- some of the back roads are not always good indicators-

[@tommybrino1]

thank you god bless

[@grandprixjames]

Plan your ride. You can avoid almost any accident. Always say what if when you see a car on a side street or driveway. Think of plan and get ready like it's going to happen. Otherwise you might just end up another statistic.

[@olliechristopher467]

I actually use my front brake at slow speed to reduce turning radius. It's an off road technique I have bused for years. And man, target fixation is a big deal for single vehicle crashes. Also a big problem are inexperienced riders listening to some of these "KZbin influencers" (not meaning yourself) that claim classes and practice can make you safer on the highway at high speeds. Our reflexes can only do so much. Too many variables on public roadways to go fast in the curves. Thank you for the tips.

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

The very best technique is entering the curve trail braking and setting up for a delayed apex. I would go on but are many good presenters fort Nine. Is one of the best.

[@mar0364]

We all need to hear this no matter how long we've ridden.

[@kennethcole1551]

I never ride faster than I can see. Meaning if I can’t see around the curve I’m slowing down Until I can see within my stopping distance, I’ve been riding motorcycles for 70 years and this is a major lesson that I learned always ride within your stopping distance

[@authorr.macwheeler4530]

I live in Tampa. The riding season is just starting. 😃

[@ArtD2368]

Good morning fantastic advice good video thanks for posting

[@MCrider]

Good morning!

[@fatbudgiekillen8997]

It's riding season ( mostly) in Australia. I'll be out practising! Thanks Kevin 😊

[@Robert-xs2mv]

Australia does not have a riding season. Unless it thunderstorms or snows, every day is a riding day in season.

[@fatbudgiekillen8997]

@Robert-xs2mv correct

[@stevenbrite4056]

Hitting a deer in the dusk of evening is another cause of accidents, especially on backroads of Pennsylvania. We have to be very careful living in these areas.

[@gerrywood5325]

The only other thing I would mention is the mentality that I am the king of my motorcycle and I can get out of any situation I get in because everybody else is gonna slow down for or stop for me. That kind of mentality will get you injured or killed, still, your advice is very good.

[@realdavidadams]

For the accident that almost killed me I have no memory that day after breakfast. There was one witness and he told the police I was driving correct speed and I just went airborne. Police report did not mark any hazard. While am not sure I want to remember the injuries bad enough to cause the air evacuation, I wish I knew what caused it so I could modify my riding.

[@greghollingsworth2888]

Consuming alcohol is perhaps the most important factor in motorcycle crashes and fatalities. It’s also the easiest to control.

[@marycrittenden1210]

Good morning from Oklahoma!

[@MCrider]

Morning!

[@richardvalitalo3670]

Countersteering, so overlooked & not mentioned enough! It's how motorcycles turn above 10 mph.

[@tidewater1964]

#1 Reason for accidents yours or others is lack of experience. Ride ride ride and you will learn and become a very good rider. Weekend warriors and those who only ride when all conditiins are perfect will be the first to crash. You should ride enough so your bike becomes part of you and all operations become natural.

[@robertjeffery6100]

Great video in Rochester ny To fast in the intersection… Hits a left turning car and plays Superman… but finished in a casket

[@bigdaddyjoe2819]

Guilty as charged Kevin!!!!! Did that handle bars and brakes at a stop sign a couple of months ago!!!!! Still feel silly about it!!!

[@chrischaney9492]

Good morning from Indiana.

[@MCrider]

Morning!

[@Fourwedge]

Great video. Thanks for the reminders and stuff to continue to work on. 🙌

[@rogercyr1551]

Thank you. All of your tips are excellent and also apply to car and truck drivers. Similar to your comments about corners, I would add: night riding (driving): don't override (overdrive) your lights. Limit your speed to the distance your lights give you what you can see in the time you can stop.

[@robertradke8026]

Let’s not forget deer. 🦌

[@Robert-xs2mv]

Or bison and bears.

[@yepyep6916]

Under the influence of alcohol is a big factor….and driving at night

[@AlHawkins-q9c]

Love the education. Thank you

[@wallyr.7854]

The crash I fear the most, hence why I never do this maneuver, it’s when a motorcyclist comes up to a stoplight, makes his or her way to the very front of the lane and as soon as the light turns green the motorcycle guns it out of there and flies across the intersection . Well, how about that vehicle coming from the left or the right that was also trying to make that stale yellow light, but the light had already turned red! Talk about a horrible side collision. Chances of survival for the motorcyclist? Very minimal. When I find myself at the very front of a lane at an intersection stopped for a red light, I will usually wait a few seconds before I proceed. So, is it annoying? Yes, is it too safe, probably, but I know I will make it to my destination.

[@rcraven1013]

Has anyone asked the question ? what method of cornering a biker took on a bend when he crashed out. . Was it the slow look press and roll or was it the 'performance' one of trail braking that seems to very popular in the USA and is being increasingly recommended in the UK. Could have been one of these the manoeuvres that led to a crash. What is the split between the two of hem. Are we seeing more crashes with trail braking or what. Anyone any ideas on that.

[@MCrider]

I don't view trail braking as a performance cornering technique. I view it as the safer alternative for a skilled rider. kzbin.info?search_query=mcrider+trail+braking

[@rcraven1013]

@@MCrider Have seen the video again and have commented on it Please read my comments.

[@rcraven1013]

@@MCrider But perhaps as you say only when you are in danger ,of fast moving traffic, approaching a junction that is well known to you and fully visually where the apex is obvious seen and one that is open in aspect. And as you say, considering the rear end danger that may or may not occur should you not be seen to be slowing with brakes lights. Would you be using it at all times, in preference to the slow, look, lean and roll alternative and perhaps on an unknown road and approaching a new to you blind bend on a narrow road. I think not.

[@blueghost3647]

The other one is riding on a nice clear day comming down a hill and hiting water and soap from the car wash and the bike tipping over onto your foot

[@56solent]

Excellent advice.....across the whole spectrum - low key - logical. watched many...

[@paulkeveny9015]

When I started riding a motorcycle I learned to read all the road signs that warned about upcoming curves that I used to ignore when driving a car!

[@be_early2024]

Thank you for presenting this. The approach to motorcycling; This video trains for thinking behavior.

[@jvillain9946]

I ain't paying to go to the track. Thats what I pay taxes for. The street is my track

[@whiskeyshots]

Regarding road hazards, most of those accidents are caused by excessive speed. Thanks for the video, as always, Kevin. We appreciate it.

[@SlowRiderDucati]

If you are using racing lines and trail breaking on public roads your riding too fast.

[@MCrider]

I don’t agree, it increases the margin for error if done correctly.

[@AsianVoodoo]

As a TD coach and nicknamed "Captain Safety Safari" I wish you'd spend a little more time on the utility of the track and benefit to the rider for learning cornering fundamentals at speed. Yes it is different but not so different that the techniques you apply cannot be applied to the street. The bike doesn't care where it is, it still needs to be ridden right. The fundamentals remain unchanged. The only thing we do when we switch to the street is change the degree to which we use these skills and what our focus is on. You need to be precise on the track and on the street but instead of aiming for apexes you are aiming for clean and clear lines with good visibility and safety margin. Knowing how to hit the line you want is learned best at the track, at speed and with run off. Vision is the same but instead of focusing on reference marks we are scanning for hazards and a clear path through and out of the corner. Learning how to trail brake doesn't being to make sense until you are at speed at the the track preferably. Learning how much you can brake when leaned over is best learned at the track. On the street this means you are incredibly proficient and competent with emergency braking mid-corner either because the corner is tightening and you need to slow down to make the corner and you are already at your maximum lean angle, or a hazard such as a stopped car has shown up around the bend. I can go on forever about the utility of the track for street riding when wisely applied.

[@tridentyyz1031]

Not using your front brake in a slow speed turn is part of lesson 2 that we teach.

[@markrumfola9833]

Good Morning Kevin

[@MCrider]

Good morning!

[@VeraArms-tk3ru]

Most of your advices fall into common sense what a lot of people don't have

[@rcraven1013]

You mention curves and single vehicle crashes. I watch a lot of you videos made on your mountain roads and see many a crash by bikers who apparently may be going too fast. What I see is a failure to realise that a hog cannot take bends the same away as a racing bike or street bike. The hog rider sees bikes going round bends fast an tries to emulate them and fails miserably. The reason for this is that on a left hand bend the roads camber is to ones left hand side of the bike and that's also the way one leans so one is riding against it in the first place. Then as one is leaned over to the left ones bikes stands extension are closer to the camber of the road and thus they hit the tarmac and dig in and that lifts the rear wheel and off they go. This rarely a happens on right hand bend as the camber goes the other way and on leaning to ones right the bikes stand extension are raised into the air and out of harms way. A hog in general has no more than a 40 degree angle of lean and less towards that camber whereas some other bikes can lean 50 to 55 deg. .