Safety Tips for Motorcycle Junkies

One of the best things about riding a motorcycle is the freedom you feel while you’re on the road. Being able to move further ahead than other cars, feeling the rush of adrenaline while you ride and being able to get where you need to go in rapid time is all just exciting! 

The only thing is, cars tend to be safer to drive, which is why there are far more cars on the road than there are motorcycles. Knowing when to call a motorcycle accident lawyer is as important as knowing what to wear while you’re zipping along those country roads. You need to do all that you can to protect yourself on the road. While you’ll be anticipating other drivers around you, there are things that you can do to minimize the risk of accidents to yourself and to others. So, what can you do to be safer on the road?

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1.     Always ride with a license. It may feel like a smart idea to feel invincible on a motorcycle, but it’s not smart to do that unless you’ve had lessons and passed your test. You need to make sure that you have a license in the same way that you need one when you have a car. You can also take additional courses so that you can learn how to ride appropriately in different situations. This will help you to reduce insurance costs and help you to be a better rider.

2.     Always have a helmet on. That quick jaunt around the corner to the shops? You need a helmet for that. Those slower suburban roads? You need a helmet for that, too. Those long country lanes at high speeds? You’ve got it - you need a helmet. A helmet is absolutely mandatory for all motorcycle riders and without one, you could be looking at the difference between life and death. You should make sure that you have one bought from a proper motorcycle equipment store so that you can ensure that it meets the regulations for safety on the road.

3.     Give the bike a once-over before you ride. Every single time you get on your bike, you should make sure that you check it over for any blemishes, scratches and issues. Broken mirrors and flat tyres are a problem for motorcycles as are fluid and oil leaks. You should make sure that you are checking these things every single time you straddle your bicycle so that you can be sure that your bike is safe on the road.

4.     Always hold on tight. When you learn to ride a motorcycle you learn how to position yourself in the center of the seat and keep both hands on the handlebars. You should make sure that you are holding on tightly and you should be sure that you signal whenever you are turning or merging and respect the rules of the road. Your seating on the bike will determine where you would end up in an accident.

5.     Stick to the law of the road. You should be sure that you know the laws and rules of the roads before you get on a bike. You need to reduce your risks of an accident and obeying the law is a must. Stick to the speed limits and pay attention to road signs. That will help to stay safe while you ride. Always assume car and truck drivers cannot see you; you are on a bike and therefore are harder to see. Your nightwear should be reflective, too, so that no matter the time of day you can be seen.

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6.     Pay attention to potholes. Ideally, roads that you ride on are in one piece but you can’t ever guarantee that will be the case. As a motorcyclist, you need to be vigilant about obstacles in the road like branches and uneven surfaces especially. Motorcycles have much less contact with the road than a car does, which can make it much more likely for the bike to skid out of control. Understanding how this can impact you as a rider is important. If you cannot avoid an obstacle, paying attention to the road can ensure that you see it coming at a good time.

7.     Invest in an anti-lock brake system. These systems prevent the wheels of your motorbike from locking when you brake. This stops you from skidding wildly out of control and keeps you steady on the road. If you have ABS brakes on your bike, you are more than 35% less likely to be involved in a fatal crash.

8.     Always ride with a clear head. No drink, no drugs, no prescription medicines - those are the rules. But don't forget to never ride if you are overtired or lethargic. You need to keep your riding skills intact and when you ride when intoxicated, you are going to be drowsy and find your abilities impaired as a result. 

9.     Adjust your ride to the weather. It’s always a risk to get on a bike but in heavy rain, it’s especially important that you understand how to ride on wet roads. You need to be very aware of yourself and others on the road in the wet and icy weather more than at any time. If you don't feel comfortable riding when the weather is bad, you’re making the right choice to leave your bike at home. 

10.  Always wear visible clothing. Loose clothing is a hazard as much as not wearing reflective gear could kill you. The last thing that you want is a new nickname of Road Rash, either, so arms and legs should be covered. A leather pair of trousers and a coat should be a must and you can put these over your clothing. Boots over sandals and gloves for your hands. Even in the warm weather, protection is crucial to your safety and your life. Always wear a bright something - like your helmet - so that you can be seen! You want the other riders and drivers to see you.