As a new rider, the focus on accidents is freaking me out a little.

Is it possible never to be involved in an accident? LoL. I mean, has anyone here never had one? Otherwise, what is the longest time you have gone without crashing?

It happens - that's why you wear gear.

Worrying or constantly thinking about it will only increase the chances of it happening.

Get some instruction that will help you build confidence - you need to be confident on the road. I've been riding for over 30 years and have had numerous crashes. None lately, but you never know...

If it's all you think about, cycle riding may not be for you.


Jay

I saw that response coming. Really I did.

Anyone able to answer the question?

(thanks for editing your post btw)

OK - no - it's not possible to ride for any length of time without crashing. Even World Champion racers crash. It happens.

Anything else you want to know?

I'm trying to help you here, but...

yes...and I appreciate your edits. champion racers crash because they push limits. I am not out to do that.

how long have you gone without crashing? (as posed in the original post)

Over 10 years. But I prepare for it every time out.

That's how I feel. I know it is inherently dangerous...and willing to take that risk...being as careful as possible. it is helpful to hear the experience of seasoned riders to help quantify that risk and to put it in perspective.

Most of my street crashes were avoidable.

My first ever crash in about 1980 was due to my ignorance of tire quality - a better tire wouldn't have lost grip like the old one I was using.

Another crash was from hitting a deer on the hwy at dusk - I was riding in a popular deer area at a popular deer time. I should have planned better.

The numerous crashes on the track don't really count IMO.

The biggest factor is just other drivers that do something unexpected. You just need to learn to read the traffic and expect the unexpected. Have a plan. Identify poor drivers and bad situations and remove yourself before the situation involves you.

That's the biggest thing you can do to avoid an accident involving other vehicles. As far as when you are riding alone, you need to know your limits and have a well-prepared cycle. Always keep a significant safety cushion on the street.


Jay

Thanks. solid advice...much appreciated.

Can I ask what your definition of an "Accident" is?
Are you referring to coming off(Lowside/Highside) on the road, hitting(or being hit by) a car while on the road, or just dropping the bike at a standstill or trying to do a U-turn?
I have dropped my bike numerous times at either a standstill, or while doing a U-turn, and count them all as accidents.
I have also ridden off the road and got stuck in a muddy ditch with minor scratches to the bike, but I just stepped off the bike with no injuries with exception to my pride.

All of the tips that jkv45 has posted covers the basics, especially like not putting yourself in the position where you can be involved in an accident, and not constantly thinking about having a crash which will inevitably lead to a crash.