Oklahoma Sheriff's Deputy Reminds Drivers To Watch For Motorcycles

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash. The sun is out and so are people who love the thrill of an afternoon ride.   

“There’s a whole lot of camaraderie,” said Deputy Aaron Brilbeck, with the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office. “There’s a whole lot of friendship that comes along with it.” 

This exciting form of transportation comes with a full tank of vulnerability. Brilbeck said drivers bear a major responsibility to keep bikers safe. Brilbeck said drivers must limit distractions.

“You have to be alert,” Brilbeck said. “You really have to pay attention.”

Brilbeck said riders also need to pay attention, wear a helmet and make their bike as visible as possible, because the word ‘fender-bender’ often doesn’t apply to a motorcycle crash.  

“Even the smallest mistakes can cause a fatality,” Brilbeck said. 

Speed is also a problem on highways. Oklahoma Highway Patrol Troopers shared a picture on social media of a driver going 65 miles per hour over the speed limit. The speed limit on that highway was already pretty fast, at 70 miles per hour. 

Small mistakes can shift into large consequences.  

“The injuries we see, oftentimes, are horrible,” Brilbeck said. 

Brilbeck said responding to these crashes is tough.   

“Personally for me, it’s ‘do I know the guy?’” Brilbeck said. 

Brilbeck understands as a member of law enforcement and as a biker himself.   

“I do. I’m a rider,” Brilbeck said. “I’ve been riding since I was 14.”  

The next time you're driving, think of people like Brilbeck, and share the road.  

“The most important thing about riding a motorcycle is getting home safely at the end of the day,” Brilbeck said.