According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Authority (NHTSA) study, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a traffic accident than car drivers. Though recent years have seen a drop in motorcycle accidents, they are still very common.
When you go out for a cruise, you can’t control how other motorists drive, and since motorcyclists are far more vulnerable, you have to take extra precautions to stay safe on the road.
Here are some great tips on how to stay safe when you’re out easy riding.
Protective Gear
This should be a no-brainer when you hit the highway, but all too often, motorcyclists don’t wear proper safety gear. The NHTSA estimates that helmets saved the lives of 1,870 riders in 2017.
They also estimate that helmets could’ve prevented 750 motorcyclist deaths. These staggering numbers show the importance of helmet wear. Wear a helmet every time you ride with no exceptions.
Protective gear also means proper clothing. Every time you get your motor running, make sure you’re in leather and non-skid boots. This protective clothing helps prevent further injury in a road accident.
Obey Traffic Laws and Practice Defensive Driving
It’s easy for many motorcyclists to remember to obey the same traffic laws they would if they were driving their car. This means using your turn signals, coming to a complete stop, and keeping a safe distance.
It also means resisting the temptation to speed. Because many drivers feel invincible in their cars and don’t spot motorcycle riders easily, you’re always faced with the burden of safety.
Should you be involved in an accident where a car driver disobeyed traffic laws and you need legal advice, this motorcycle injury attorney can help you. A good injury lawyer can recoup your medical costs and other damages.
Check the Weather
Most motorcyclists don’t use their motorcycles as their primary form of transportation. Leisure rides are most common, though some use them to commute in order to save gas.
If you’re headed out for a long ride, make sure to check the weather forecast. Bad weather like rain or snow can make road conditions unsafe for your motorcycle. Unlike a car, motorcycles are meant for good weather and dry conditions only.
While pop up storms or unexpected rain can happen on any ride, the weather report should determine your safe riding plan for the day. If you’re using your bike to commute to work, leave it parked if there’s even a chance of bad weather.
Stay Safe on the Road
Motorcycles represent so much to American culture. They are symbols of freedom and fun. Most people who learn to ride a motorcycle fall in love and for good reason. Motorcycling is exhilarating.
Fun and thrilling it may be, you have to learn how to stay safe on the road. Make sure you wear proper protective gear at all times. You need to obey the traffic laws and drive defensively. Do this and you’ll keep yourself safe out there.
For more motorcycle safety tips, check out the rest of our site.
