Although fatalities have decreased in recent years, it’s still a risky form of recreation. Following a few motorcycle safety tips can help lower the risk of serious injury or death.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned motorcyclist, there are ways to lower the risks when hitting the open road. Here are 9 motorcycle safety tips to prevent serious injury.
1. Choose the Right Motorcycle
Buying the wrong motorcycle can be dangerous. You want to choose a bike that’s suited to your size and ability.
You should be able to rest both feet on the ground while on the bike. Your motorcycle shouldn’t be too big or heavy for your body size. And it should be easy for you to maneuver.
Choose a bike with anti-lock brakes for safety reasons. Above all, when you shop for a motorcycle, think safety first.
2. Take a Safety Course
You may have visions of hitting the open road and enjoying your freedom. That’s great, but if you don’t know how to ride a motorcycle safely, it could lead to disaster.
The best motorcyclists understand that safety comes first. Whether you are a newbie or a seasoned rider, it’s good to hone your skills.
Taking a motorcycle safety course is a good first step for learning the basics and staying safe. In some states, taking a safety course can get you a reduced insurance rate. So, be sure to check if you’re eligible.
3. Watch Your Speed
One of the main causes of motorcycle crashes is excessive speed. The faster you go, the less time you have to react to other drivers, poor road conditions, or other hazards.
Panicking and slamming on the brakes could send you flying forward, leading to devastating injuries or death. If you’re going too fast, making a quick turn is dangerous and could cause the bike to slide out from under you.
Always travel at the appropriate speed for the location and weather conditions. Traveling at high-speed leaves you little time to react to potential hazards like slippery spots or potholes in the road.
If you do suffer a motorcycle injury at no fault of your own, you should contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
4. Stay Focused
It’s critical for motorcyclists to practice defensive driving techniques. You need to be aware of your surroundings at all times. As you ride, you should scan for:
You want to watch what other drivers are doing and anticipate possible problems. Although you may be following the rules, you cannot predict what another driver will do.
Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times.
5. Make Yourself Visible
Motorcycles are small on a busy road and hard for other motorists to see. This is especially true at night or in poor weather conditions.
That’s why you want to make yourself as visible as possible. You can improve your visibility by doing the following:
Making yourself visible helps other drivers see you and may prevent an unnecessary accident.
6. Wear the Right Gear
No matter your skill level, you need the proper motorcycle safety gear. A helmet is essential, but you need other types of protective gear as well. A weather-proof or leather jacket will protect you from the wind and keep you warm. Wearing long pants and boots is also a good idea.
Bright colors, reflective clothing, or reflective strips help make you more visible to other drivers. Be sure to use proper eyewear or goggles to protect your eyes from the wind and debris.
7. Maintain Your Motorcycle
Making sure your motorcycle is in good working condition can help reduce the risk of an accident. Take the time to ensure your bike is the proper size for your body.
Check your tire pressure regularly and make sure the tires are in good condition. Your lights and turn signals should work properly. Performing regular maintenance is critical to keeping your bike running as it should and you as safe as possible on the road.
8. Don’t Drink and Drive
Avoiding alcohol is good advice for anyone on the road. Drinking and driving a motorcycle is a horrible idea and a recipe for disaster.
Motorcycles are already more dangerous than cars or other vehicles. Adding alcohol to the situation only increases the danger to you and others.
Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction time. And no one drives better after a few drinks. Stay safe and avoid alcohol if you plan to drive a motorcycle or any vehicle at all.
9. Avoid Bad Weather
Riding in bad weather is dangerous. Rain reduces visibility and traction, increasing the chances of an accident. The first few minutes of a rainstorm are the most dangerous. The rain mixes with oil on the road and other pollutants.
This creates a slick film on the road and is especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Slick patches, pebbles, and wet leaves can all cause a motorcycle to slide in the rain.
Avoid hazardous conditions and find another mode of transportation if it’s raining. If you do drive your motorcycle in the rain, don’t speed. Use your brakes, throttle, and steering gently to avoid sliding.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
For some, the thrill and freedom of riding a motorcycle outshine the risks. But you can lower the risk for motorcycle injuries or death by following a few motorcycle safety tips. Many motorcycle accidents are preventable. If you must ride, enjoy it! But take care of yourself and other motorists too.
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