Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating. There is nothing like tearing through the air at high speeds and feeling the wind in your face.
But like with most exciting experiences, there are equally steep risks involved. Research shows that motorcyclists are 28 times more at risk of death than people in regular vehicles. Therefore, riders must take appropriate measures to stay safe on the road.
So in this article, we help out by providing tips and guidelines for staying safe on a motorcycle.
How to Stay Safe While Riding
Here are essential and helpful tips to help you stay safe while riding.
- Wear Appropriate Gear
One great way to stay safe while riding a motorcycle is to wear appropriate gear. “The number of individuals who die every week on American roadways is equivalent to five 737 passenger jets crashing every seven days, “says NTSB Chairman Deborah Hersman. A leading cause of this number is the lack of proper protective gear on most motorcyclists.
As a rider, you should wear a helmet, gloves, boots, and a protective jacket. A helmet is the most crucial gear, as it can prevent head injuries and save your life in a crash. It is important to choose a helmet that fits well and is DOT-approved.
Gloves are also essential; they protect your hands from injury and provide a better grip on the handlebars. Boots should be sturdy and cover the ankles to protect them from injury. A protective jacket with armor inserts can protect the torso, arms, and back.
- Ride Defensively
Motorcyclists should always ride defensively, as they are more vulnerable than other motorists. This means always having an escape plan by anticipating potential accidents. Always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, and be prepared to escape from incoming danger quickly if necessary.
It is best to be aware of blind spots, especially when passing or changing lanes. Use your turn signals and eye contact with other drivers to ensure they see you. Be aware of road conditions, such as potholes, gravel, and wet or slippery surfaces, and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Avoid Distracted Riding
Careless riding is a leading cause of motorcycle hazards. This includes texting, phone use, eating, drinking, and adjusting the radio or GPS. Even taking your hands off the handlebars to adjust your helmet or goggles can be dangerous.
To avoid distractions, adjust your gear before you start riding. Stay away from your gadgets and turn off any other distractions. Only make calls or send messages parked in a safe spot.
- Maintain Your Motorcycle
Regular maintenance is essential for motorcycle safety. Before you ride, check your tires, brakes, and lights to ensure everything works properly. A well-maintained motorcycle is less likely to break down or malfunction while you are riding.
It is also necessary to check the manufacturer’s directions and use that to guide your maintenance schedule. This includes oil changes, tire rotations, and other maintenance tasks. If you are uncomfortable performing these tasks, take your motorcycle to a qualified mechanic.
- Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
A motorcycle safety course is an excellent way to improve your skills and knowledge. These courses teach riders how to handle their motorcycle, ride defensively, and react in emergencies. They also provide valuable information on safety gear, motorcycle maintenance, and traffic laws.
Many states require new riders to take a safety course before getting their motorcycle license. Even if it is not required in your state, taking a course to improve your skills and knowledge is still a good idea.
Conclusion
We admit that riding a motorcycle is fun, but it is too risky not to have several safety practices. “By wearing the appropriate gear, riding defensively, avoiding distractions, maintaining your motorcycle, and taking a safety course, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in an accident” says Felix Gonzalez.