Legal Review: A Quick Introduction to Motorcycle Safety Tips for Riders

Riding a motorcycle is undoubtedly exhilarating. They are fast, fuel-efficient, and relatively easy to navigate.

However, with this thrill comes a lot of danger. Statistics have shown that motorcycle crashes are 30 times more likely to be fatal than vehicle crashes. Sometimes, riders are unfortunately treated as second-class road users, leading to increased accidents and fatalities.

Here are some tips for motorcyclists to stay safe on the road.

Always Wear Biking Gear

Motorcyclists are vulnerable road users. Unlike drivers, they do not have protection from impact during accidents. The only protection such motorists have comes from the gear they wear.

That said, it is vital to ensure that you are properly dressed. Many riders want to look “cool” and neglect wearing proper biking attire, a decision that might have catastrophic outcomes.

Never go for a ride without a helmet. Remember that head injuries cause most fatalities in bike crashes. Ensure that your helmet is DOT-approved, and if it is open-faced, use shatter-resistant glasses or goggles.

In addition, you can wear biking jackets, pants, and boots. These attires are made with leather, which will protect your body from injury or at least reduce the magnitude. You can also protect your hands with gloves.

Inspect Your Motorcycle

Make a habit of inspecting your motorcycle before hitting the road. Check that your brakes, tires, and lights are working as intended. Also, always do a short test ride, as it will help you detect mechanical hazards before you head out.

Riding a poorly maintained motorcycle is equally hazardous. Do not neglect the regular service and maintenance with your mechanic. Change your oil, chain, and other worn-out parts as soon as you realize they need replacing.

Pay Attention

Like other road users, motorcyclists are required to be attentive when riding. Avoid distracting habits like listening to loud music or using your phone.

Keep in mind that most accidents are caused by human negligence. As a motorcyclist, you must be on the lookout for distracted motorists and other potential hazards like gravel or bad roads.

Check The Weather

Always check the weather forecast before heading out. This will help you prepare for bad weather or avoid it altogether.

Adverse weather conditions like snow, ice, and rain increase the risk factor for motorcyclists. You might have a hard time focusing when exposed to these conditions.

Bad weather also reduces your bike’s grip on the ground. You could easily skid and crash. Finally, these conditions equally reduce visibility.

Follow Traffic Rules

Bikers are not exempted from obeying traffic rules. They must maintain order and keep all motorists safe. Therefore, the quickest way to cause an accident is to ignore road signs.

Always use turn signals when turning or changing lanes. Avoid making sudden movements on the road. Adhere to other road rules like observing the speed limit.

Follow other vehicles from a safe distance. This will give you enough time and space to react to unprecedented events. Motorcyclists are advised to equip their bikes with anti-lock brakes, which help steer safely in emergencies by preventing wheels from locking up.

Conclusion

Riders have the same rights and responsibilities as other road users. Therefore, they are responsible for their safety and that of others.

“A lot of motorcycle safety ultimately boils down to safety gear,” says attorney Walter T. Clark of Walter Clark Legal Group. “Ensure that you and your passengers have the right safety gear and are always focused on safety while on the roadway.”