According to the Insurance Information Institute, motorcycle accidents are 30 times more fatal than vehicle crashes! This makes safety precautions a top priority for all motorcyclists out there.
Below are eight tips that you must implement to reduce the risk of accidents or their severity should you find yourself in one.
Invest in the Right Gear
Protective gear is a non-negotiable in motorcycling. Don’t let movies and magazines fool you into trading protective gear for a cool look. The repercussions can be fatal.
So, as you shop for a hot exhilarating motorbike, make sure protective gear is included in the budget.
Some of the essential items to include in your shopping list are a leather jacket, non-slip gloves, goggles, boots (over the ankles), leather chaps or pants, and a helmet with DOT certification.
There are plenty of retailers on the market, so you shouldn’t have a hard time finding the right gear for your budget. However, don’t focus too much on saving cash and compromise safety. Ensure the equipment meets the desired safety standards and has the required certifications where necessary.
Some of these clothes can be very uncomfortable during summer. For this reason, you should also consider getting an extra pair of gear for the hot season. For instance, you can purchase ventilated gloves which would give you the grip you need while supporting sufficient air circulation for a comfortable ride.
Take a Riding Course
Riding a motorbike is fairly easy but doing so defensively requires some training. Start with the basic e-learning courses and proceed to the more advanced classes to improve your skills and increase your protection. Advanced training is particularly important if you want to be a serious circuit rider.
Although motorcycle courses usually follow the same process, certain details may change depending on factors like your home state and the bike in question. There are also different classes of motorcycle licenses meaning the course you take will affect the type of license issued. Tell your trainer the kind of rider you want to be so they can help you get the appropriate course.
Keep Your Bike in Good Condition
Maintenance keeps your bike in good condition reducing the risk of experiencing mechanical issues while on the road. Besides boosting your safety, routine checkups will also prolong the lifespan of your bike.
In addition to the occasional motorcycle maintenance, you should inspect your bike before every ride. Check your turn signals, fuel, brakes, oils, taillights, headlights, horns, tire pressure, and handlebars. Take a quick look around the bike, checking for leaks or any other mechanical red flags. The inspection takes just a few minutes, but it makes a significant difference.
Follow Traffic Rules
A compact bike that can maneuver the roads with ease may tempt you into ignoring traffic rules. Don’t do it! Obey all the traffic rules like other motorists. Follow the lights, check the speed limits, use your signals, etc.
The III reports show that most fatalities involving motorcycles are caused by ignoring traffic rules like speed limits. Don’t be part of these statistics.
Check the Weather
Weather conditions like rain, ice, and snow are more dangerous to motorcyclists than motorists. That’s simply because motorbikes have fewer tractions. Therefore, check the forecast before hopping on your bike, especially if you have a long ride ahead of you.
Take Breaks Whenever Necessary
Gliding through the open country roads feels nice, but we can all agree that the rides can also be very exhausting. Don’t ignore your body when fatigue starts creeping in. Switch off the bike and stretch, lie down, or take a nap if need be.
Planning your ride beforehand can help you manage your brakes more appropriately. Start by taking sufficient rest before your departure, then identify several resting stops on the way where you’ll have the necessary amenities for your refreshment.
Get Motorcycle Insurance
It goes without saying that motorcycle insurance is a vital investment. The insurance can cover a number of issues depending on the specific policy you purchase. It can cover your medical bills and repair or replace your bike when involved in a crash.
Carry a First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a great addition to your portable toolkit. You don’t even need to spend a lot on a big kit that’ll take too much space. A basic first aid kit with bandages, a hand sanitizer, adhesive tape, band-aids, disinfecting wipes, and gauze is enough.
Maintain your bike, put on your protective gear, and mind the traffic rules. These seemingly minor measures make a whole lot of difference that will determine your fate on the road.
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