CHATHAM COUNTY, N.C. – Motorcyclists are well-aware of the risk they assume every time they get on their bikes, but so much of their safety on the roads is in the hands of other drivers. 

What You Need To Know

• North Carolina doesn’t have a law against lawn debris in roads

• There is a helmet law in North Carolina for motorcyclists

• According to the NHTSA, motorcyclists represent more than their share of fatalities in accidents

Although, he’s been riding for 35 years, Chris David feels less safe today than he used to. He said distracted driving and a simple lack of education on how things, like grass clippings impact motorcycle safety, make North Carolina roads a danger zone. 

Chris Davis straps on his helmet before going for a ride. (Spectrum News 1)

“A lot of people don’t realize those grass clippings are like black ice,” David said. “Motorcycles don’t have the best braking to begin with, and you come up on that grass, it can either blow up in your face and cut your eye, or it can actually act like black ice and put you down on the ground.”

In 2019, a bill known as the Litter Definition Clarification tried to classify lawn debris as littering, but it failed to pass. Now, he said it’s his responsibility to fill the gap legislation is missing.

“Bikers, we’re the ones out on the road, we’re the ones that can educate people,” David said. “I think a lot of it, they just don’t realize how dangerous it is.”

He’s been in accidents, and he’s seen them happen, and each time, he says the story is the same – “I didn’t see them.”

“I believe in being very visible, people being able to see me,” David said. “I run a very bright head light at nighttime. People actually flash their brights at me, because of how bright the headlight is on them, but it’s all about being seen.”

Chris David watches traffic before pulling out in a busy downtown area. (Spectrum News 1)

His relaxing rides in the country are close to becoming a thing of the past. He said truly giving his mind a break isn’t an option today. 

“Always on defense. I’m checking my mirrors every 5-10 seconds, so I can see what’s coming up behind me, watching the road way ahead of me,” David said. “I try and watch the road about 100-150 feet ahead of me.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2021 were motorcyclists, reflecting the highest number since 1975. 

“About three weeks ago, I almost slid into 15-501. And you can see the traffic out there does not slow down,” David said. “It makes you pucker up a little bit.”

The N.C. Department of Transportation advises drivers to stay alert and be aware that motorcycles can easily hide in blind spots. And when following a motorcycle, they encourage drivers to leave more space. Taking extra time to check traffic thoroughly and eliminate distractions could prevent an accident.