Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating, but it can be exceedingly deadly if fundamental safety precautions are not followed. Motorcycle riders are more likely than car passengers to die in a traffic accident, according to the US Department of Transportation. Having all of the appropriate motorcycle safety gear can provide a safe and relaxing ride to your favorite location.
Critical Motorcycle Safety Tips you Should Know
Always Wear a Full-Face Helmet
When riding a motorbike, there are no exceptions to wearing a helmet. Despite the fact that the majority of collisions occur at moderate speeds, not wearing a helmet increases your chances of being injured in one.
A full-face helmet will save your life in case of a crash. The bulk of motorcycle accidents occur right where the chin sits on the helmet. Despite the fact that an open-face helmet is cooler and more comfortable, the risks are real, and therefore a full-face helmet is necessary for every motorcyclist.
Hearing Protection
One of the things that make riding a motorcycle fun is the wind whipping past you. But don’t allow the good times to get the best of you by forgetting to safeguard your ears. An ear defender or a full-face helmet can help protect your hearing while still allowing you to hear other vehicles on the road.
Footwear and Gloves
Footwear and gloves are other essential accessories to have when you start riding your motorbike because they can protect you in the event of a crash. Wearing boots can help protect your ankles and shins from injury. Most people believe they need gloves more in the winter, but this is not true; you need them in any season because they help you maintain a solid grip and protect you in the event of an accident.
Clothing
You might not give much care to what you wear on your ride, but it can have a significant impact on your safety. Wear a motorcycle jacket made of leather or other durable fabric designed exclusively for riding. If you fall off your bike, these will protect you from abrasions. Thick jeans will provide more protection than regular jeans. A full riding suit might provide considerably more protection, but that is usually reserved for professional motorcycle riders.
Check on The Weather Forecast
When you’re on two wheels, the dangers of wet or snowy roads are amplified, and the weather is a continual foil to good driving conditions. Because you don’t have a windshield, you’re also exposed to driving rain.
A rider’s worst nightmare is a lack of visibility, which is especially bad when you get caught in the rain while riding your bike.
Stay Sober
“Eight hours from bottle to throttle,” says the pilot, and a motorcycle rider should follow that advice. You must pay great attention and maintain vigilance while you move down the road. Maintaining that level of focus for the duration of your journey is crucial to going where you want to go. That is why you should avoid alcohol because it can increase your blood alcohol levels, impair your judgment, and lower your reaction time.
Ride With Individuals You Know and Trust
Although this may seem self-evident, you should not ride with someone who is inebriated or intent on showing off. That is because they could get you into trouble if they are riding irresponsibly.
It’s Never a Good Idea To Ride While You’re Tired
If you’re fatigued, don’t ride. Riding your motorcycle while tired increases your chances of causing an accident on the road, which you can avoid. Make sure you take a break after every few hours to recover and eat some food before continuing on your next excursion. It’s also a good idea to have some sort of set of rules to follow while traveling.
Stick to The Rules of the Road
In order to avoid accidents, it is vital to follow traffic laws, use signals, and travel within the posted speed limit. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, excessive speed was blamed for 48 percent of motorcyclist deaths in 2009.
Whenever Possible, Avoid Riding Alongside Semi-Trucks
Avoid riding alongside large trucks, and while passing, make sure to let them know you’re approaching. You may proceed when you can pass quickly and safely. The blind spots of large trucks makes it difficult for them to spot an approaching motorcycle.
Take a Safety Course
A motorcycle safety school will educate you on the rules of the road. You’ll also learn what to do in a variety of unexpected riding situations. Safety training can assist you in practicing motorcycle riding, which necessitates competence and good judgment.
