biker riding motorcycle with helmet and gloves

Motorcycle safety

The goal of HSO’s Connecticut’s Motorcycle Safety Program is to reduce the number of injuries and deaths among motorcycle operators and passengers through rider education and public awareness of key motorcycle safety issues. 

A key measure is the Connecticut Rider Education Program (CONREP). This program, which includes on-bike and written instruction and testing, is mandatory for earning the motorcycle endorsement necessary to operate a motorcycle legally in CT.

By the numbers

  • In 2021, a total of 66 motorcycle operators and passengers were killed on CT roadways, representing 2022% of the State's total traffic fatalities. This is the highest in more than 10  years.
  • Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely than to die in a crash and 4 times more likely to be injured than a driver or passenger in a car. (NHTSA)
  • 60% of motorcycle crashes involve a collision with another vehicle.
  • In 2021, the injury rate of 127 injuries per 10,000 registered motorcycles was the second highest in five years.

 

a biker is riding his motor cycle

Laws & penalties

  • In CT, riders must have a valid driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement to operate a motorcycle. To get this endorsement, you must successfully complete a novice safety course either through the Department of Motor Vehicles or a participating private provider.
  • Operating a moped or motor scooters (with five brake horsepower or less) requires a driver’s license but not require a motorcycle endorsement.
  • Connecticut currently does not require motorcycle operators 18 and older to wear a helmet. However, 16 and 17-year-olds must wear protective headgear when operating a motorcycle.
  • There is no age limit for passengers on a motorcycle.
  • All motorcycle operators must follow the same rules of the road that apply to other motorists. Legal and financial penalties for violating traffic laws are generally the same as with passenger vehicles.
riders 35 years and older accounted for 52% of the fatal crashes
96% of riders hurt or killed in crashes are male
42% of crashes occurred on weekends - 61% of crashes occurred between 12pm and 8pm

Drive to save lives – what we’re doing

In addition to rider education programs, HSO creates and distributes public awareness materials that promote rider safety. Many campaigns focus on "share the road" and “motorcycles are everywhere” messaging, reminding other motorists to look out for motorcycles and drive with care when near them. 

  • Educational materials are distributed through grassroots events, outreach programs and PSA campaigns on radio and billboards.
  • HSO and the CTDOT are also working with legislators to pass important motorcycle safety laws like mandatory helmets for all ages of riders.

its whats inside that count - speed kills you faster - ride safe ride protected - ride safe ride in control

“Ride safe ride protected”

The Share the Road campaign urges motorists to pay attention and look for motorcyclists on CT roadways.

Drive to save lives – what you can do

Motorcycle safety is a two-way street. Motorcyclists and other vehicle drives must all operate responsibly to ensure everyone’s safety.


Motorcyclists

Fair weather rider

Check the weather before heading out. If possible, refrain from driving in rain, high winds or snowy conditions.

Gear up

Protective gear saves lives and reduces the severity of injuries in a crash. Always wear a helmet, gloves, eye-coverings, boots and protective pants/jacket. And make sure your passenger does the same.

Pre-ride checks

Inspect your motorcycle before each ride to be sure it’s safe. Check your headlights, taillights, turn signals, brakes, fuel, oil, tire pressure, mirrors, handlebars and horn.

Follow the rules

Obey all traffic rules, use your signals and drive the speed limit.

Be visible

Do not assume other drivers can see you. Avoid other drivers’ blind spots. Ride with your headlights on even during the day. Wear bright or reflective gear.

Look for hazards

Watch for and avoid road conditions that can compromise your traction, like sand, oil, gravel, speed bumps and potholes.

Safe distance

Do not tailgate and ensure you always have an escape route should you need to stop quickly.

Keep learning

Take an advanced riding course. Learn and practice important skills like collision avoidance maneuvers, advanced turning, control tips and braking techniques.

Other drivers

Check twice

Always check your blind spots. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and can be even more difficult to spot while merging or changing lanes.

Pass with care

Be extra cautious when passing motorcycles. Make sure to signal your intention to pass a motorcyclist by using your turn signal. Always make sure you are several car lengths ahead of the motorcycle before returning to your lane.

Don't tailgate

Maintain an adequate following distance behind motorcycles. Rear-ending a motorcycle can be fatal to the rider.

Night safety

Help riders stay safe after dark by increasing your following distance, ensuring that your high-beams are turned off when you notice an approaching motorcycle and refraining from passing.

Stay in your lane

Motorcycles are legally entitled to their own lane of traffic. In no situation are you allowed to drive your automobile in the same lane and in close proximity to a motorcycle.

Be alert at intersections

Many vehicle accidents that involve both automobiles and motorcycles occur at intersections. Always follow the safety protocol for intersections every single time that you approach one: come to a complete halt, view and obey posted traffic signs and signals, look both ways for approaching traffic and proceed slowly.

Dont trust turn signals

Unlike in cars, many motorcycles do not have self-cancelling turn signals. It’s not uncommon for riders to forget to turn them off, meaning you may not know when or if they intend to turn.