The call of the open road is compelling, especially in Knoxville, Tennessee. When you commute down I‑640 or take the scenic routes by the Smoky Mountains, it comes with a sense of freedom you can’t get behind the wheel of a car. But that freedom carries serious risks.
Motorcycle wrecks are far more likely to result in catastrophic injuries compared to passenger vehicle crashes. If you’re looking for ways to protect yourself or a loved one, these motorcycle safety tips can help reduce your risk on the road. And if you’ve already been hurt in a crash, working with a skilled Knoxville motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand how to fight for your rights and maximize your recovery.
Biking by the numbers
Motorcycles make up only about 3% of registered vehicles in the U.S., but they’re involved in 11% of roadway fatalities. With little protection against larger vehicles, even minor mistakes can lead to life-altering injuries.
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security:
- In 2024, there were over 3,000 motorcycle wrecks statewide
- Knox County alone reported more than 170 motorcycle crashes and over 50 serious injuries
- 262 bike crashes involved speeding (8.51%), and 717 involved a rider under age 25 (23.29%)
How can motorcycle riders reduce risk in Tennessee?
Here are some of the most important ways to stay safe on two wheels in and around Knoxville:
Don’t drink and ride
If it’s dangerous on four wheels, it’s even more so on two. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and reaction time, which are three things every motorcyclist depends on. In 2023, 6,335 people operating a motorcycle were killed in traffic crashes. Of those motorcycle riders, 1,668 (26%) were drunk (BAC of .08 g/dL or higher).
Always wear a helmet
Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37% for riders and 41% for passengers. A DOT-approved helmet is one of the most effective pieces of protective gear you can wear. It may not be fashionable to some, but it could save your life in a wreck.
Make yourself visible
Never assume a driver sees you. Most motorcycle wrecks happen when a vehicle turns or changes lanes without noticing the rider. Wearing brightly colored or reflective gear and avoiding blind spots can drastically improve your visibility—especially at night or in poor weather.
Match your ride to your skill level
Riding a high-powered motorcycle beyond your comfort zone can be a recipe for disaster. If you’re a new rider or haven’t been on the road in a while, consider enrolling in a course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to refresh your skills and improve your confidence.
Obey traffic laws at all times
Excessive speed, running lights, and weaving through traffic are among the most dangerous behaviors on a motorcycle. In 2023, 262 motorcycle wrecks in Tennessee were caused by speeding, according to TDOT. Riding aggressively may feel thrilling, but it puts your health—and your ability to recover compensation—at serious risk.
Watch the weather and road conditions
Wet roads, fog, or debris can easily lead to a skid or crash. Always adjust your speed and following distance in poor weather, and be extra cautious around sharp curves and construction zones common in Knoxville and East Tennessee.
How can car drivers help keep motorcycle riders safe?
Both drivers and motorcycle riders play a role in preventing serious wrecks. Here’s how each group can help:
For drivers:
- Check your blind spots before changing lanes
- Give riders more following distance
- Use turn signals early and consistently
For motorcycle riders:
- Don’t ride in between lanes or “split lanes”
- Wear brightly colored gear to stay visible
- Signal clearly and make your intentions known
Public awareness campaigns from the Department of Transportation emphasize the importance of sharing the road, but individual action saves lives.
What to do after a motorcycle accident
Your first priority should be safety. If you’re able to move, try to get yourself out of the road and away from traffic. Then, call 911 and request both police and emergency medical services. Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask serious injuries, so make sure to get checked out by EMS right away.
When the police arrive, explain what happened from your perspective. The crash report will include essential details like the location, weather, vehicle information, and witness names, all of which can be helpful when filing an insurance claim or building your legal case.
If you’re physically able, gather evidence at the scene. This includes:
- Photos or videos of the wreck and the surrounding area
- Contact information for witnesses
- Notes about how the wreck occurred
You should also notify your insurance company and contact a Tennessee motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, investigate the crash, and fight for compensation.
Injured in a motorcycle wreck? Hotz & Associates is here to help
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash, our team at Hotz & Associates, P.C. is ready to fight for you. We know how devastating these accidents can be, and how hard insurance companies push back.
Injured in a motorcycle accident in Knoxville or East Tennessee? Call (865) 582-0042 or contact us online for a free consultation.