Rash of motorcycle accidents here lately

[VStarRider]

WJDuke mentioned that there have been several incidents in his area. Seems like we go through a rough stretch like this every so often, where several motorcycle fatalities occur in a short period of time.

https://www.democratandchronicle.com...es/1071603002/

Three in the past three days, four in the month of August. Thing is, these accidents are mostly caused by the rider. One guy lost control and went into oncoming traffic; another rode into a parked van; another rode at high speed through a busy intersection and hit a car turning left; another couple of riders hit each other on an interstate earlier in the month.

[wjduke]

I would agree that most are rider error. To those guys, well, what can be said. They feel invincible. Others, maybe like myself, either damn lucky to be alive, or damn unlucky as a rider. I feel both for sure. I miss it, but, I'm getting too old to handle the injuries. There's usually a rash of incidents early in the season too. Just ride safely. The rest is out of your control.

[opas ride]

I try not to let accident thoughts get in my mind and always make an effort to ride extremely safe and watch other drivers as best I can...But the way some of the idiots I see riding bikes, they are playing with fate and possible serious injury...Most are sport bike and "crotch rocket" riders...JMHO

[seagravesg]

Recently had my first accident in 25+ years of riding. Topped hill in curve I had ridden many rimes before (rural TN road) and a truck was stopped waiting to turn left. I wasn't speeding...maybe 35, but had less than 30 yards to stop, hit the brakes and ditch and came away with broken thumb, various scrapes and bruises....and, totaled my '16 F6BD. Hitting truck rear would have been much more damaging. This was a true accident. No way to avoid. That's what worries me! While on the mend, another procedure on thumb next week, I wonder what my desire will be, when healed, to ride again. Extremely lucky but next time who knows. I really enjoy riding, nothing else compares. I'll add I am retired and in mid-60's. Pondering the future......time will tell if the itch returns.

[opas ride]

Recently had my first accident in 25+ years of riding. Topped hill in curve I had ridden many rimes before (rural TN road) and a truck was stopped waiting to turn left. I wasn't speeding...maybe 35, but had less than 30 yards to stop, hit the brakes and ditch and came away with broken thumb, various scrapes and bruises....and, totaled my '16 F6BD. Hitting truck rear would have been much more damaging. This was a true accident. No way to avoid. That's what worries me! While on the mend, another procedure on thumb next week, I wonder what my desire will be, when healed, to ride again. Extremely lucky but next time who knows. I really enjoy riding, nothing else compares. I'll add I am retired and in mid-60's. Pondering the future......time will tell if the itch returns.

Sometimes getting right back on a bike when your healed is the best therapy...I know it is a difficult time right now for you, but I hope all works out for the best whatever you decide...I am 78 and even though I don't ride as much as I used to, I still love getting out on the back roads and riding along, constantly looking to hopefully avoid any accidents...So far, so good....Regards

[VStarRider]

I try not to let accident thoughts get in my mind and always make an effort to ride extremely safe and watch other drivers as best I can...But the way some of the idiots I see riding bikes, they are playing with fate and possible serious injury...Most are sport bike and "crotch rocket" riders...JMHO

Opas, you and I don't agree on everything, but I also find myself allowing thoughts of "what if" enter my mind while going down a road on two wheels. We can only ride as safe as we can, and most, not all, of the time that is the difference between and accident or close call, and a non-event.

All of the bikes cited in the article with perished riders were sport bikes. I think I would be tempted to hammer on it too, if I had one. They are so fast and handle so tight that it is hard to resist.

[53driver]

The Art of Motorcycling is centered on proper, accurate, and continuous self-assessment and knowing when to take a break - either for a coffee and perhaps a change of underoos, or a slightly longer hiatus.
I'm very glad that our membership does this openly and is proud of it.
Well done by all of you.
Cheers,
Steve

[VStarRider]

The Art of Motorcycling is centered on proper, accurate, and continuous self-assessment and knowing when to take a break - either for a coffee and perhaps a change of underoos, or a slightly longer hiatus.
I'm very glad that our membership does this openly and is proud of it.
Well done by all of you.
Cheers,
Steve

There is no "like" button, but I would like to "like" this. Rest. Water. Coffee. Stretching. Go home if you aren't "feeling it". All good things when riding.

[Draxsr]

Agreed. Sometimes on longer rides I find myself 'drifting' or daydreaming. Gas stop time.

[53driver]

Sorry to hear about that seagraves!
I concur with Opas - time to heal and resume the living you've come to enjoy.
Of course, not much wrong with a Corvette convertible either to get the wind in your hair.....

Take care and heal fast!
Cheers,
Steve