Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are an important motorcycle safety technology that is becoming more prevalent on motorcycles in the United States. ABS helps motorcycle riders maintain control and safely stop their motorcycles during emergency braking situations. However, there are implications related to motorcycle ABS for riders, manufacturers, and insurers in Ohio. This article explores the impact of ABS on motorcycle safety and liability concerns in the state.
Motorcycle ABS Technology and Safety Benefits
ABS technology works by monitoring the speed of each wheel during braking. When ABS detects that a wheel is about to lock up and skid, it modulates the brake pressure on that wheel to help the rider maintain stability and steering control. By preventing wheels from locking, ABS helps motorcycles stop in shorter distances in straight line braking. It also helps motorcycles maintain maneuverability when braking during a turn.
Studies by the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and others have found ABS substantially reduces motorcycle fatal crash rates and insurance claims. ABS is estimated to reduce fatal motorcycle crashes by 22% to 42% due to improvements in crash avoidance and braking performance. The safety benefits are greatest on wet and slippery roads where locked wheels are more likely.
In addition to fatal crash rate reductions, studies show ABS provides other safety benefits for motorcyclists. ABS bikes are involved in fewer multi-vehicle crashes compared to non-ABS bikes. ABS also mitigates damage in low-side crashes, where the motorcycle slides out in a turn. By preventing abrupt loss of traction, ABS allows riders to recover and remain upright in many low-side situations.
Adoption of ABS for Motorcycles in Ohio
ABS first became available on some high-end motorcycles in the 1980s but was slow to catch on due to cost. In 2013, the European Union began requiring all motorcycles over 125cc to be equipped with ABS. This led to more widespread adoption, lower costs, and improved designs.
In the United States, ABS is still not federally required for motorcycles. But as of 2019, a majority of new motorcycles sold in the U.S. had ABS. Many major motorcycle manufacturers now include ABS as standard or optional equipment on their bike models.
In Ohio, riders can still purchase new motorcycles without ABS today. But ABS prevalence is increasing due to market demands for improved safety and technology. Ohio riders interested in ABS can find it installed on most models from manufacturers like BMW, Honda, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Suzuki, and Yamaha. Aftermarket ABS systems are also available to add to motorcycles without factory ABS.
Liability Impacts of Motorcycle ABS in Ohio
For Ohio motorcycle accident liability, the question of whether a rider’s motorcycle was equipped with ABS could be an important factor. Plaintiff attorneys may try to allege a rider was negligent for operating a non-ABS bike and thus liable for damages. However, Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule. This means a rider’s percentage of fault and liability would be weighed based on the totality of evidence in an accident.
Ohio statutes do not definitively require ABS on motorcycles. Thus, it would likely be difficult to definitively prove negligence based solely on lack of ABS. However, ABS could be introduced as evidence to potentially influence a rider’s degree of liability if other factors contributed to causing the accident.
Insurance companies writing motorcycle policies in Ohio may also be affected. Some insurers offer discounts for motorcycles equipped with ABS due to reduced claims. However, insurers cannot mandate ABS or refuse to insure a motorcycle due to lack of ABS under state insurance regulations.
Motorcycle ABS continues to grow in Ohio and improve rider safety. But the technology’s impact on liability remains subject to interpretation under the state’s negligence and insurance laws. As ABS becomes more prevalent, it will be important for insurers, riders, attorneys, and regulators in Ohio to continue evaluating the effects of ABS on loss experience, underwriting policies, liability outcomes, and overall motorcycle safety.
While not definitively required in Ohio, motorcycle ABS has proven safety benefits that may influence legal liability determinations. The growth of ABS presents opportunities and challenges for multiple stakeholders going forward. Continued data analysis and open policy dialog will help maximize the positive impacts of ABS for motorcyclists in Ohio.
The Aftermath of a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents can be deadly, which is why safety features like ABS are so important. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, get in touch with a motorcycle accident lawyer from Monge & Associates. We have offices in 32 locations and 19 states, including Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Call now for a free consultation on (888) 477-0597.