Ask A Planner: Can we plan for greater safety for motorcyclists?

Motorcycle safety is an essential aspect of transportation planning that aims to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities on the road. Some key strategies include:

• Infrastructure design & upkeep: Incorporate motorcycle-specific road and other features, such as designated parking, and turning lanes into road design and planning. Proper road maintenance strategies to prevent and repair potholes and loose gravel which is dangerous for motorcyclists will further enhance safety for riders, even on existing roadways.
• Visibility & signage: Improve visibility by placing reflective materials on barriers, road signs, guardrails, and medians to enhance motorcyclist awareness, especially at night. Install warning signs at intersections and high-risk areas to alert drivers and motorcyclists about potential hazards.
• Intersection design: Design intersections with clear sight lines, reduced blind spots, and room to turn safely. Consider intelligent transportation systems approach to intersections where appropriate.
• Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Implement technologies allowing instant and direct messaging, vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems, signal timing and prioritization to enhance awareness among drivers and motorcyclists.
• Awareness & education: Public awareness campaigns that educate both drivers and motorcyclists about understanding the challenges each group faces. Provide motorcycle-specific safety training programs for new riders and ongoing education for experienced riders.
• Data & monitoring: By collecting and analyzing data on motorcycle crashes, including crash contributing factors, to identify trends and high-risk areas, this data can be used to inform transportation planning decisions and prioritize safety improvements.
• Incorporate motorcycle safety into transportation plans: Include as a component of transportation plans and policies by collaborating with motorcycle safety organizations, and rider groups to gather their input for planning initiatives.
• Motorcycles in the transportation mix: Promote and plan for motorcycles as a part of the broader transportation network such as hubs for multiple types of transportation to come together, bike-sharing systems, and other transportation options.

By incorporating these strategies into transportation planning efforts, roadways will become safer for all users. More information about motorcycle safety can be found at: https://ridesmartflorida.com/

Ask A Planner is a monthly featured column by PlanHillsborough.org. Call 813.272.5940 or email your community planning questions to: [email protected]