The Debate on Motorbike Safety Gear for Car Drivers: Facts and Misconceptions
It is often debated whether motorbike safety gear should be used by car drivers or if it provides any real benefit in the event of a crash. The argument against such safety measures is that most street cars are not designed to withstand the same damage as rally cars equipped with FIA-approved roll cages. This article explores the effectiveness of motorbike safety gear in car accidents, the potential risk compensation effect, and the reality of motor racing.
Is Motorbike Safety Gear Effective for Car Drivers?
For the vast majority of car accidents, motorbike safety gear such as helmets and leathers would provide minimal protection. According to industry experts, 999 out of 1000 accidents result in injuries that far outweigh the protection offered by safety gear. In street cars, the likelihood of the driver's head and body slamming into hard parts of the car or being impacted by flying glass is high, rendering motorbike safety gear largely ineffective.
Helmet Visibility and Blind Spots
The visibility offered by a helmet is significantly reduced when inside a car, leading to worse blind spots. In many car accidents, airbags are the primary line of defense, rendering motorbike safety gear less necessary. Leather gear, while effective in preventing abrasive injuries typical of sliding on a gravelly road, offers limited protection against flying glass and does not safeguard against hard parts of the car impacting the driver. Hence, motorbike safety gear provides little to no value in this context.
Fire Retardant Suits: A Valid Concern?
Fire retardant suits, commonly worn by rally drivers, may offer some minor benefits in a small percentage of crashes involving fires or intense heat. However, the high cost of these suits often makes them impractical for everyday car drivers.
The Concept of Risk Compensation
A significant concern with using motorbike safety gear in cars is the potential for risk compensation. This theory, supported by the Google Risk Compensation concept, suggests that individuals may become more reckless when they feel safer, ultimately leading to more accidents. For instance, a local council recently raised the speed limit in response to increased accidents at 20mph, reflecting that drivers tend to drive recklessly when they feel more safe.
Experience in Motorsports
As someone with extensive experience in motor racing and street riding, I can attest that a combination of training, fit, and situational awareness is paramount in avoiding disasters. Proper control of the vehicle, minimal movements, and selecting the shortest line can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
In a recent instance, my wife and I were driving at 40mph in icy conditions. By pulling in the clutch and maintaining an upright stance, we were able to straighten the turn and avoid disaster. The ability to focus and control the vehicle is more important than any protective gear. In harsh winter conditions, where the road surface is treacherous, the skill to navigate safely is invaluable.
Conclusion
The reality is that motorbike safety gear is not a significant factor in preventing accidents for car drivers. The speed and design of street cars, along with the nature of most car accidents, make motorbike safety gear largely unnecessary. The focus should be on developing safer cars and improving driving skills to reduce the incidence of accidents.
The effectiveness of motorbike safety gear and the concept of risk compensation are topics that require careful consideration. While motorbike safety gear might offer some benefits in rare, specific situations, it is not a panacea for car safety. As we strive to improve road safety, it is crucial to prioritize evidence-based measures that have a proven track record of effectiveness.