Motorcyclists’ Attitudes on Using High-Visibility Gear to Improve Conspicuity

Report Cover
Resource Type
Research Project Results

This report by NHTSA and GHSA's National Cooperative Research and Evaluation Program (NCREP) examines why riders choose to wear — or not wear — high-visibility gear. Through a focus group of motorcycle riders, the report finds that while most participants did not regularly wear such gear, those who did reported doing so after having been in a crash with a motor vehicle, or personally knowing another rider who had been in such a crash.

Download the Report

Focus group participants recommended increasing the acceptance of high-visibility gear among motorcyclists through the following:

  • Designing more attractive and appealing clothing (with preference for retroreflective gear over bright colors)
  • Incorporating high-visibility elements universally across all branded motorcycle gear
  • Adopting clear educational messaging backed by statistics
  • Offering financial incentives through insurance discounts
  • Encouraging use during low-light conditions for a gradual norming
Resource Category
Publication