Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
May marks Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of road safety for motorcyclists in Oklahoma. As the weather warms up, more bikes will hit the road, making it essential for both riders and drivers to stay alert and share the road responsibly.
Motorcycles offer freedom and fun, but they also come with greater risk. Compared to drivers in enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists are more exposed and more likely to sustain significant injuries in a crash. At Graves McLain Injury Lawyers, we support efforts that help riders stay safe—and we stand ready to help those injured due to someone else’s carelessness.
Motorcycles are smaller, harder to see, and offer no barrier between the rider and the road. This makes even minor collisions potentially life-threatening. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants.
Common causes of motorcycle crashes in Oklahoma include drivers turning left in front of bikes, rear-end collisions at stoplights, and distracted driving. Riders also face added danger from poor road conditions and drivers who don’t see them.
When a crash happens, injuries are often severe. Riders may suffer head trauma, broken bones, spinal injuries, and road rash. Even with full protective gear, the chances of walking away unharmed are slim in a high-speed impact.
State laws are in place to protect motorcyclists, and knowing these rules helps you ride legally and safely. In Oklahoma, these are some of the most important regulations to follow:
Oklahoma law requires riders and passengers under the age of 18 to wear helmets at all times while on a motorcycle. (47 O.S. § 12-609)
You must also have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your license. To get this, you’ll need to pass a written test and a skills exam or complete an approved training course.
Other important rules include:
Daytime headlight use is mandatory for all motorcycles in Oklahoma to increase visibility on the road.
Oklahoma does not allow lane splitting, meaning you cannot ride between two lanes of traffic. Violating traffic laws can impact your ability to recover damages after an accident, so it’s best to stay compliant at all times.
While you can’t control what other drivers do, you can take steps to reduce your risk of a crash. Safe riding starts with the proper habits. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet is one of the most important things you can do. It protects your skull and brain in the event of a fall or collision.
Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of head injury by 69%, according to CDC research.
Use clothing designed for protection, such as jackets with armor, thick gloves, and boots with a good grip. Avoid riding in shorts or t-shirts. Not only do these leave you exposed to injury, but they also provide no resistance during a skid.
Always ride with your headlights on, even during the day. This makes you easier to spot. Wear bright or reflective gear and never ride in a vehicle’s blind spot. Defensive riding means assuming that other drivers may not see you and taking steps to ensure you remain visible to them.
Before each ride, take a few minutes to check your bike. A quick inspection can prevent mechanical failures that lead to crashes.
Check Item | What to Look For |
| Tires | Proper pressure, no cracks or worn treads |
| Lights & Signals | Headlights, brake lights, turn signals work |
| Brakes | Firm grip, no strange sounds or soft feel |
| Mirrors | Clean and properly positioned |
| Leaks | Check for fluid under the bike |
| Chain/Belt | Proper tension and lubrication |
Even safe riders can be hit by careless drivers. If you’re involved in a crash, take immediate steps to protect your health and explore your legal options.
Call 911 and wait for the police to arrive. Get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
Take photos of the scene, your motorcycle, any injuries, and road conditions. Get the contact details of all involved drivers and any witnesses.
Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence rule. If you’re found partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
Don’t admit fault at the scene or in discussions with insurance companies. Avoid giving a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer first. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
If another driver caused your accident, you may be able to seek compensation for:
Under Oklahoma law, you can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. This is known as modified comparative negligence.
Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame or downplay the severity of your injuries. That’s why it helps to have legal support early in the process. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, build your case, and negotiate with insurers.
Yes. You need a motorcycle endorsement on your license after passing a written and skills test.
Only riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet. However, wearing one is strongly recommended.
That’s common, but not a valid legal excuse. They may still be held liable for failure to yield or reckless driving.
Yes. Oklahoma’s comparative negligence law allows partial recovery as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault.
You may recover medical bills, lost income, bike repair costs, and pain and suffering.
It’s best to do so as soon as possible before speaking to insurance companies or accepting a settlement.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is a reminder that every rider’s choices matter. By wearing the right gear, following Oklahoma traffic laws, and riding defensively, you can help reduce the risk of serious injuries.
Unfortunately, even the safest motorcyclists can be harmed by negligent drivers. When that happens, it’s essential to know your rights and take steps to protect your future.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is here to help you understand your legal options and guide you through the following steps.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
