The Dangers of Riding a Motorcycle Fatigued
Lessons from The Road
By: Lucky, CycleFish Founder
Riding. It’s a way of life. Riding a motorcycle is the physical embodiment of what it means to be free. Riding requires a sharp mind, focus, and physical endurance. Riding while fatigued, however, is a risk many riders underestimate — often with dire consequences. I learned this the hard way during an unforgettable ride back in 2013. This is my story.
Just a Fun Weekend Adventure with The Wife
In June 2014, my wife Laura and I attended the Redwood Run, an epic motorcycle rally in northern California. The weekend was full of more fun and shenanigans than can be had in any lifetime. We had a blast! By the end of the weekend, I’d only managed about five hours of sleep. Despite feeling worn down, I figured I could power through the 800-mile journey home to Southern California, planning to stop for the night around dinner time.
We hit the road at 9 am and were already beginning to feel the weight of the weekend. As the hours passed, exhaustion slowly crept in. I ignored it. Around late afternoon, I passed up an area with plenty of motels, thinking I could push just a little farther to make the next day’s ride shorter. That decision would end up costing us dearly.
The Crash
By 5 p.m that same evening, my exhaustion had completely taken over. As we approached a curved highway exit in Merced, CA, my judgment and reflexes finally gave way. I veered off the edge of the exit. The bike wobbled violently before slamming into the ground, forcing us both down on the ground sprawling.
Thankfully, emergency crews arrived quickly and we were rushed to a local hospital. Unfortunately, the facility lacked the trauma care we needed, so I was airlifted, and Laura was taken by ambulance to Modesto Hospital. The staff there took incredible care of us, but the damage was done. However, they did put Laura and I in the same room, and together the two of us on pain meds kept the hospital staff well entertained :-)
I suffered seven broken ribs, a fractured scapula, and a broken ankle. Laura’s injuries were worse: a fractured arm and multiple severe fractures in her ankle and lower leg. She endured hours of emergency surgery, followed by a grueling recovery.
At that time I had been continuously riding motorcycles for over 40 years and most likely had around a million miles on two-wheels… I definitely should have known better.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, the crash was not inevitable. I made several decisions in succession that led to the crash. Fatigue had been looming over me and my poor judgment turned a routine ride into a life-altering event. Here’s what I learned.
1. Recognize the Signs of Fatigue:
Fatigue doesn’t always hit suddenly. It creeps up in subtle ways: slower reaction times, zoning out, or struggling to maintain a steady pace. Listen to your body.
2. Plan Realistic Ride Schedules:
Long-distance rides require planning for rest. Break your trip into manageable segments, and prioritize sleep, hydration, and meals.
3. Don’t Push Beyond Your Limits:
If you’re tired, stop. The extra miles aren’t worth risking your life. Stopping earlier than planned is always better than not making it home.
4. Take Frequent Breaks:
Regular breaks — every 100 miles or so — can keep you alert. Stretch, hydrate, and give your mind a moment to reset.
5. Travel with a Safety Net:
Let someone know your route and check in along the way. If something happens, help could arrive more quickly, and your family and friends will have an easier time locating you if you are injured and unable to contact them.
This is NOT how you want to arrive home after what was a weekend you look forward to all year!
Gratitude and Moving Forward
We were lucky to recover and ride again after this accident, but it was a long road. We’re also grateful to the Orange County Chapter of the Bikers for Christ M/M and their Downed Biker Ministry. They showed up unannounced after we returned home, offering prayers, food, and support. Their kindness reminded us of the incredible community within the biker world.
Now, every time I ride, I ensure I’m fully rested and fit to take on the road. That accident taught me that even the most experienced riders aren’t immune to the dangers of fatigue.
Fatigue is one of the most dangerous challenges a motorcyclist can face, but it’s also one of the easiest to prevent. My story is a sobering reminder of what can happen when we push too far. Don’t let fatigue turn your dream ride into a nightmare — always prioritize your safety, and live to ride another day.
~ Lucky, CycleFish Founder
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