Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month – May 1, 2027

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
Categories:
Tags:
AwarenessSafety
Where:
United States
Date change rule:
Every May
Holiday emoji:
🏍️🛡️

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is observed every May, urging both drivers and riders to prioritize safety on the road. This month serves as a crucial reminder to practice defensive driving, wear appropriate gear, and remain vigilant. Join us in advocating for safer roads and respecting all road users.

Want to sponsor Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month? Learn how

Expected Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Deals

During Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, many organizations and retailers pivot from traditional sales to promoting safety. Look for special offers on essential gear like helmets, armored jackets, gloves, and boots from brands such as RevZilla and Cycle Gear. Training courses from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) often see discounted rates or special promotions to encourage new and experienced riders to hone their skills. Local dealerships like Harley-Davidson and Honda Powersports may host free safety clinics or offer incentives on bikes equipped with advanced safety features. Insurance providers such as Progressive and Geico might highlight discounts for riders who complete safety courses. Non-profits like the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) will focus on fundraising and advocacy for rider rights and safety initiatives. We will update this page with confirmed live deals and initiatives as May approaches.

Platform Guide for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #MotorcycleSafetyMonth. Share photos of your riding gear, safety checks, or scenic routes with a safety tip.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #MotorcycleSafety. Tweet out daily safety facts, share news on rider education, and advocate for road sharing.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #MotorcycleAwarenessMonth. Post about local safety events, group rides with a safety briefing, or share personal safety stories.

Social Media Tips for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Individuals

Commit to a 'Look Twice, Save a Life' pledge, ensuring you're extra vigilant for motorcycles. For riders, perform thorough pre-ride inspections and always wear full protective gear.

Creators

Produce short videos demonstrating proper helmet fit, pre-ride checks, or defensive riding techniques. Interview local safety instructors or share 'share the road' etiquette tips.

Brands

Launch a 'Gear Up for Safety' campaign offering discounts on protective apparel. Partner with local riding schools for sponsored training sessions or host a 'Share the Road' community event.

Organizations & Brands for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

  1. Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF)

    Founded in 1973, the MSF is a national, not-for-profit organization that promotes motorcycle safety through rider education courses. They develop research-based curriculum and train instructors to teach millions of riders.

  2. American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)

    Established in 1924, the AMA is the largest motorcycling organization in the world, advocating for the rights of motorcyclists. They promote the motorcycling lifestyle and work to protect the future of motorcycling.

  3. SNELL Memorial Foundation

    The Snell Memorial Foundation, founded in 1957, is a non-profit organization dedicated to helmet safety through scientific research, testing, and standards development. They certify helmets for various activities, including motorcycling.

  4. Harley-Davidson

    Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer. Beyond building bikes, the company actively promotes rider safety through training programs and advocacy for responsible riding.

  5. Progressive Insurance

    One of the largest auto insurers in the U.S., Progressive also offers extensive motorcycle insurance. They are known for their educational resources and often provide discounts to riders who complete certified safety courses.

  6. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

    A U.S. government agency, NHTSA is responsible for reducing deaths, injuries, and economic losses from motor vehicle crashes. They conduct research, set safety standards, and run public awareness campaigns for motorcycle safety.

  7. RevZilla

    Founded in 2007, RevZilla is a leading online retailer of motorcycle gear, parts, and accessories. They are a go-to source for riders seeking high-quality protective equipment and offer extensive product reviews and educational content.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month Hero

Harry Hurt

Harry Hurt was a research professor at the University of Southern California who led the groundbreaking 'Hurt Report' in 1981. This comprehensive study of motorcycle accidents provided crucial data on crash causes, rider behavior, and the effectiveness of helmets, fundamentally shaping motorcycle safety education and policy worldwide. His work underscored the importance of rider training and protective gear.

History of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Each year, motorcycles in the U.S. travel almost 22 million miles. Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists don’t have seat belts, airbags, or the relative safety of an enclosed vehicle. Besides helmets, nothing is protecting the riders should an accident happen. Motorcycle riders and their passengers are at a high risk of serious, sometimes critical injuries. That’s usually the case if bikes collide with other vehicles.

Most motorcycle crashes happen when other drivers on the road can’t see them. Drivers may be distracted or uncomfortable with two-wheelers on the road. Anxious motorists attempt to anticipate where a motorcyclist will go, and steer their cars accordingly. All these reasons compounded with nerves results in terrible driving decisions. For motorcyclists, the situation can become extremely unsafe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (N.H.T.S.A.) reports that motorcyclists were 25 times more likely to die in a traffic crash than people in passenger cars.

Motorcyclists must protect themselves from potentially dangerous situations. But other drivers need to be equally cautious, too. It’s imperative to respect a motorcycle’s space and right of way. Remember to take care when following or passing one on the highway. Stay aware of each other’s space. It’s an excellent way to ensure safety, not only in May but the whole year through.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month May reminds all drivers to respect and share the road. The campaign also aims to educate riders on how to stay safe while riding and all the risks involved. Motorcycles account for just 3% of registered vehicles in the U.S., but they make up 14% of fatal crashes in a year.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month timeline

1800s
Early Descendants

Motorcycles are born from the safety bicycle.

1894
The First Motorcycle

Hildebrand & Wolfmüller emerges as the first series production motorcycle.

1914
The First Helmet is Born

Dr. Eric Gardner commissions a canvas to keep a rider’s head safe.

2020
Motorcycle Crashes: a New Record

The U.S. reports 5458 motorcycle crashes — the highest ever recorded.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month FAQs

When is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month?

In 2027, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is observed from Saturday, May 1 to Monday, May 31. This annual observance is a critical time for road safety education.

How many motorcycle fatalities occur each year?

Motorcycle fatalities remain a significant concern on U.S. roads. Recent data indicates that thousands of motorcyclists lose their lives annually, highlighting the importance of both rider and driver vigilance.

What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?

Motorcycle crashes frequently stem from drivers failing to yield the right-of-way to motorcycles, particularly at intersections. Additionally, rider inexperience, lack of proper training, and hazardous road conditions contribute significantly to accident rates.

What is the importance of wearing a helmet?

A properly fitted, certified helmet is the single most effective piece of safety equipment a motorcyclist can wear. It provides vital protection against severe head trauma, which is the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents, making it an essential part of every ride.

How to Observe Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

  1. Check your motorcycles

    Before hitting the road, conduct a thorough inspection of your motorcycle. Check tires, fuel, lights, indicators, and brakes. Also, adjust suspension or tire pressures to account for passengers.

  2. Wear protective gear

    Invest in a top-quality helmet. You could also consider shatterproof face shields and eye protection. In addition, remember to wear gloves, boots, and thick clothing.

  3. Stay alert

    Motorists, always check for motorcyclists — especially at turns. Motorcyclists, assume that drivers cannot see you and ride accordingly. Keep a safe distance from each other as much as possible.

5 Facts About Car Crashes That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Close to home

    Most accidents happen within three miles of a person’s home.

  2. Road rage expressions

    An average driver will curse 32,000 times while driving a car in one lifetime.

  3. Fatal conversations

    Chances of accidents increase by 400% when talking on the phone.

  4. Accident prone

    Hatchbacks and sports cars are the most prone to crashing.

  5. Young people are more vulnerable

    People between the ages of 16 and 20 are more likely to die or get injured in a car crash.

Why Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is Important

  1. It ensures safer roads

    The onus of safety is on everyone. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month emphasizes collective responsibility instead of passing the buck.

  2. It's the jolt we need

    We think accidents won’t happen to us until they do. The stats each year are terrifying. This month is the wake-up call everyone needs.

  3. It encourages better driving

    We’re all for campaigns that make people better, more respectful drivers. Driving on the freeway without stress is every motorist’s dream.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month dates

Year Date Day
2027 May 1 Saturday
2028 May 1 Monday
2029 May 1 Tuesday
2030 May 1 Wednesday
2031 May 1 Thursday