We’ve all dreamed about what it would be like to weave in and out of lanes on the freeway, to zoom past traffic, and to simply feel the rush of driving a motorcycle. Motorcycles definitely boost a cool factor but they are more dangerous than cars. As a matter of fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has reported that when motorcyclists get into a crash, they are 30 times more likely to die than a motorist.
Motorcycle accident fatalities have been on the rise across America since 2014. Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer, Max Sparwasser, reports that there were 5,286 fatalities in just 2016 alone. Whether you’ve just begun to ride or have been riding for years, it is good to keep certain motorcycle safety tips in mind so that you can be an accident-free rider.
Here are 5 motorcycle safety tips that you should always keep at the top of your mind.
1: Always Wear Protective Gear
Whenever you’re riding, you should have always have an adequate amount of clothing and protective gear on. I know that it is tempting to wear a t-shirt and shorts on hot days, but this will not protect you if you get into an accident. You need to wear attire that will help prevent road rash if you happen to crash and slide off your bike. This means at least wearing jeans, a long sleeve, and closed-toe shoes.
Additionally, all riders should wear glasses or goggles, a helmet, and gloves. Glasses or goggles will protect your eyes from dust, gusts of wind, and more if you prefer to wear an open-faced helmet. Gloves are extremely important as you will use your hand to break your fall if you get into an accident and fall off your motorcycle. You should always wear a DOT-approved helmet to protect your head from sustaining any injuries as well.
There is also lightweight and breathable gear available for warm summer days.
2. Don’t Do Anything You’re Not 100% Comfortable With
You might get tempted to ride fast, do tricks, or weave in and out of lanes if you see other motorcyclist doing it. However, you shouldn’t do anything that you’re not 100% comfortable with just so that you could look cool. Attempting tricks can result in an accident and life-threatening injuries. Be realistic about your abilities and gradually move to improve them.
If you are attempting to lane split or other maneuvers while on the road, check the environment around you and signal to motorists or other motorcyclists that you’re going to be making a change. Try not to make any sudden movements without informing the other people on the road.
3: Choose the Right Bike
Not all bikes are created equal. When buying your bike, be sure to buy one that is suited for your height and arm length. This means that your feet should be able to lay flatly on the ground when you are seated. You shouldn’t need to tiptoe to hold your bike up. Your bike also shouldn’t feel incredibly heavy, weighing you down. Lastly, your arms should be able to reach the handlebars with ease. If any of these things are off, you may need to purchase a new bike or get yours adjusted. Guaranteeing that all these things are right will put your mind at ease when you are riding.
4: Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Motorcycle
Before you hit the road, give your bike a good look. Check your lights, tires, and mirrors, and make sure that they are in the shape that they need to be. Look out for any loose bolts, leaks, or anything that looks out of place and not ordinary. While this sounds like a tedious task to do before each time you ride, it could potentially save your life. It will only take a few short moments to inspect your bike, don’t skip it.
Stay on top of your bikes maintenance appointments and needs. Don’t put off any oil changes or suspension adjustments because it is inconvenient or pricey. Making time for these things will help extend your bike’s life and provide smoother rides.
5: Check the Weather
Not all weather is good weather for motorcycle riding. Avoid riding during heavy storms, snowfall, and icy roads. Riding in wet and slippery environments is incredibly dangerous for cars and even more for motorcycles. Since motorcycles only have two wheels, it is easier to lose balance and fall when the roads are slick. Riders also experience decreased visibility since they don’t have a windshield and windshield wipers to protect them from the water or snow.Heavy rainfall can also physically hurt riders since their bodies are exposed.