(Newswire.net — April 1, 2019) — Riding a motorcycle is a great deal of fun. Unfortunately, it can also be a great deal of danger. If you are a regular motorcyclist, then you may know how important it is to have proper gear, get educated, and follow traffic laws. You likely also know that even the most prepared and safety-conscious motorcyclists are not exempt from some dangers on the road.
Whether you are a motorcycle veteran or are just getting licensed – or maybe you operate a car or truck and just want to be more conscious of motorcyclists – here are 10 motorcycle safety tips everyone can benefit from. However, if you’re ever involved in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, be sure to contact an experienced motorcyle accident lawyer to ensure that you recieve the compensation you deserve.
1. Educate Yourself
Educating yourself about riding a motorcycle, caring for a motorcycle, or being a safe rider is important, especially if you are newly-licensed. It is also important for riders who have experience, as laws change, and safety features on bikes are regularly updated. Remember, no matter how good you think you are, you can never have too much safety knowledge and training.
2. Wear the Right Gear
On a motorcycle, you don’t have the same protection you would have in a car or truck. One of the best ways to protect yourself is wearing the right gear. Wear long pants and long sleeves, and always wear a helmet. In fact, 37 percent of motorcyclist fatalities could be prevented with proper helmet use. You may even take gearing up a step further by wearing gloves, motorcycle goggles, and boots. There are retailers that specialize in motorcycle safety gear that is padded with an armor-like material, which is also a great idea.
3. Be Noticeable
Wearing protective gear is very important, and so is being noticeable to other drivers. This is especially important at night. Make sure your gear or motorcycle is equipped with bright or reflective equipment. It is also advised to use your headlight, even during the day.
4. Be Aware
When you are operating a motorcycle, there is no such thing as being too aware of your surroundings. Be aware of other motorists, pedestrians, and potential roadway hazards. Be aware of drivers around you who are speeding, texting, or are swerving through traffic.
5. Avoid Alcohol
Estimates suggest that as many as 40 percent of motorcyclists who die in single-vehicle accidents are impaired by alcohol. Never operate a motorcycle after drinking, even if you feel sober when you first mount your bike. Alcohol hits everyone at different speeds, so you may not realize you are intoxicated until it is too late.
6. Keep Your Motorcycle Maintained
Any vehicle that is not properly maintained can contribute to an accident. Keep your bike maintained by routinely checking the tires, brakes, lights, turn signals, fluids, and filters.
7. Check for Road Hazards
Before hitting the road, check for road hazards in advance. Check your state’s Department of Transportation or local media website for any scheduled roadwork, construction, or utility work. You can also usually find out about accidents that are currently being cleared.
8. Check the Weather
Operating a motorcycle in bad weather can be extremely dangerous. Before making plans to ride, check your local weather. Avoid riding if there is a chance of rain, snow, ice, or heavy wind. If you do get stuck riding in bad weather, make sure you slow down and drive appropriately for conditions until you can safely stop and take shelter.
9. Avoid Aggression
We all have been there – a driver pulls out in front of us, swerves, or cuts a corner too close. Yes, it is frustrating, and you have every right to feel aggravated. However, you should try to avoid aggression, be it aggressive driving, or the temptation to respond to a reckless or aggressive driver. Aggression or “road rage” can cause accidents and can lead to criminal behavior. It is best avoided.
10. Use Common Sense
What the first nine of these safety tips culminates to is, ultimately, use common sense. Be aware of your surroundings and drive appropriately for where you are and the conditions that are present. Stay calm and in control, and don’t try to act macho or cool to show off to nearby drivers. Of course, the most important safety tip anyone on the road should follow is to always obey traffic laws.