Safety is crucial for motorcycle riders because these two-wheeled machines lack the structural protection that other motor vehicles offer. In the event of a crash, there’s little to cushion the rider from impact, only their gear and helmet. Recent motorcycle accident trends highlight the risk riders face, with rider deaths accounting for 14% of total accident casualties in 2021.
So, how do you stay safe as a rider? Keep reading below for essential motorcycle safety tips every rider should know.
Always Gear-up
According to Price Benowitz Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP, wearing protective gear should always be a priority for riders. This gear can minimize the injuries that a rider experiences. Since wearing full-protective gear in hot summers is uncomfortable for most riders, one must always wear boots that cover your ankles, a tough impact-resistant jacket, long pants or jeans with gloves, and a full-face helmet.
It may seem inconvenient to wear all this gear for short trips, such as grocery shopping. However, even if motorcycle accidents occur at low speeds, there’s still a risk, even during brief trips.
Your Bike Matters
As any bike enthusiast will tell you, there are different types of bikes. When purchasing one, ensure your experience matches the bike you choose. There are many bikes for beginners and many others for professionals. Any decision to pick a motorcycle beyond one’s expertise directly conflicts with safety.
At the same time, the bike’s weight relative to engine power, with all the fluids, also known as wet weight, will also affect how your bike handles things. To be safe, it’s best to be well-informed before purchasing your bike.
Watch the Weather
Bad weather conditions are extremely dangerous for drivers as well as motorcycle riders. In fact, two-wheelers are more vulnerable to accidents during rain, snow, or other extreme weather conditions. So, before kicking a bike ride, turn on the weather channel or open the weather app on your phone. Check if there is going to be rain while you are planning to ride your motorcycle outside.
Be Present at All Times
Riding a motorcycle, no matter how mundane it may seem, demands all your concentration. That’s why you should never operate your bike while intoxicated or tired. The consequences can be fatal.
Routinely Inspect Your Bike to Avoid Surprises
Motorcycle enthusiasts will tell you that there should be a system for revving up your bike. And it doesn’t entail merely switching on the engine and riding off. Instead, take time to inspect it. Ensure everything is working optimally to avoid surprises. This includes the brakes, clutch, and indicators, among other parts.
The best way to catch a problem before it turns into a hazard is through random inspections.
Safety on the Road
“I didn’t see him; he came out of nowhere; I saw him when it was too late.”
We’ve all heard of these excuses in motorcycle accidents. As a rider, you need to make sure you’re visible, especially in low-light conditions. Your front, tail, and indicator lights should always be functional. Ride keenly while observing the actions of other motorists and avoid multitasking.
Accidents often occur in a split second. That’s why situational awareness is important while you’re on a bike. It ensures the opportunity to react in case anything unexpected happens.
Conclusion
The risk of a motorcycle accident to the rider should never be taken lightly. Unlike vehicles, bikes lack the structural protection and safety systems that mitigate the impact of a crash. Adhering to essential safety tips is crucial for riders: choose a bike that can be comfortably handled, wear safety gear and a full-face helmet, check the weather, and always ride sober.
If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a skilled personal injury attorney. They can pursue the case on your behalf, bringing the liable party to the book and ensuring you are compensated for all your damages.
