Wire rope barriers, also known as wire guardrails, were originally designed around 1940 to keep cars from crossing into oncoming traffic when a driver lost control. They’re supposed to absorb some of the vehicle’s energy and slow it down, but they can also be extremely dangerous, especially for motorcyclists. Around 5%–16% of motorcycle fatalities are reportedly caused by collisions with guardrails, and there is also a high chance of a rider hitting one of the posts directly.

One of the biggest problems with these barriers is where they’re placed. They’re often installed right next to the road instead of farther into the median. When someone loses control, especially on a motorcycle, there may be almost no time or space to correct themselves before hitting the barrier. At that point, the barrier can cause serious damage to the vehicle or motorcycle and, more importantly, the person riding it.

I don’t think wire barriers always protect people in the way they were intended to. For motorcyclists, hitting the cables or posts can lead to extremely serious injuries, including amputations and death. I think concrete barriers should be considered as an alternative in areas where they would be appropriate. They don’t have exposed cables or individual posts that a motorcycle or rider can hit, and they can provide a solid barrier between lanes of traffic. While being safer and more effective in the event of a crash.

If replacing them isn’t practical, I think the next best option would be to move wire barriers farther away from the road whenever there’s enough room, such as toward the center of a median. Giving drivers and motorcyclists some extra space could give them a better chance to regain control before reaching the barrier. While simultaneously giving people more room to pull over for emergency vehicles, car issues or when a police officer is stopping them. Even a few extra feet could potentially make a huge difference.