Citation

Belisle W. Collision 2009; 4(1): 44-56.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Collision Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Motorcyclist safety equipment is becoming more sophisticated and effective at reducing the high levels of motorcycle crash injuries, fatalities and related costs. This paper evaluates the range of protection provided by motorcycle safety technologies. Technologies evaluated include helmets, clothing, eye and foot protection, vests, reflective materials, seatbelts/fall-bars/enclosure scooters, and airbags and enclosures. Evaluative methods included descriptive statistics and compiling lists and categories of motorcycle safety technologies; identifying and estimating safety and protection provided for the motorcycle or rider; and assessing the potential for the technology to reduce crashes, injuries, fatalities and costs. The results of the study suggest the greatest degree of safety and protection, and hence cost reduction, is provided by the motorcycle airbag equipped enclosure. Seat belts/fall-bars/enclosure scooters and helmets were also effective compared to other motorcycle safety technologies. Large standard deviations were found when comparing percent protection provided by different technologies, which may reflect the broad range of technologies and may be the result of a limited number of data points.