82,500.
That’s how many motorcycle-related injuries were reported in 2020 by the National Safety Council, not including the estimated 6,000 fatalities.
What’s more, the majority of motorcycle accidents happen to sober drivers in broad daylight, in good weather.
The truth is, motorcyclists are more vulnerable than other drivers on the road due to the lack of protection provided by motorcycles compared to cars and trucks. Motorcycle riders also face diminished visibility compared to drivers in vehicles.
Therefore, it is crucial that riders take every necessary precaution to keep themselves safe while riding.
Before you take your next motorcycle ride, consider these top 7 safety tips:
Get the Right Gear
Wearing proper safety gear is crucial for every motorcycle rider. A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear, as it protects the head from the threat of serious injury in case of an accident. Other essential gear includes protective jackets, pants, gloves, and boots that are specifically designed for motorcycle riding. Your protective gear should be made of high-quality materials to provide protection, fit properly, and be comfortable to wear for ease while riding.
Keep Up With Necessary Maintenance
Avoiding accidents can often time be as simple as ensuring your motorcycle is well-maintained. Check your motorcycle’s brakes, tires, and lights regularly, and make sure they are functioning correctly. Always keep your motorcycle’s oil and other fluids at the recommended levels. Regular maintenance also helps to identify potential problems before they become serious safety hazards.
Stay Visible
Visibility is crucial for motorcycle safety. Make sure your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working correctly. Always use turn signals and hand signals to indicate your intention to other drivers. When riding at night, reflective gear and lights are the easiest ways to make yourself more visible to other drivers.
Go with the Flow of Traffic
In the same vein of visibility, staying in your lane and out of blind spots is a good measure of safe motorcycle driving. 41% of motorcycle-related tragedies were single-vehicle accidents. This means, often, motorcycle riders cause their own accidents. Avoid weaving in and out of traffic. Follow traffic rules and speed limits. Stay within the posted speed limits, and adjust your speed according to weather and road conditions.
Focus, Focus, Focus
Being alert and focused is key for any driver. Keep your eyes on the road, and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like texting or talking on the phone while riding. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and be prepared to react quickly to unexpected situations.
Avoid Riding Under the Influence
Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous to yourself and others on the road. It’s also illegal. Substances that impair your ability to react quickly, make good decisions, and stay focused on the road should be avoided at all costs. If you plan to drink, plan to use a designated driver or another form of transportation.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
Improve your riding skills and learn essential safety techniques in a motorcycle safety course. Whether in person or online, a safety course can refresh your memory on the best safety practices and teach you how to handle your motorcycle in various challenging situations. And if the added safety benefits aren’t enough, in some scenarios, taking safety courses can also save you money on insurance.
Bonus: Know What to Do After an Accident
Safety should be a top priority for any driver but especially motorcycle riders, given the increased risks of being on the open road. In any case, if an accident does occur, you should know what to do on the scene and in the aftermath of a crash to keep yourself protected. Check out this step-by-step guide for what to do after a motorcycle accident if you haven’t already.
Remember: wear protective gear, keep up with your motorcycle’s maintenance, stay visible, follow traffic rules, stay focused, don’t drink and drive, take a safety course, and be prepared for any scenario. Following these simple safety measures can keep you and others safe.
Enjoy the ride!
Schedule a Free Consultation with The Law Brothers®
If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, be sure to call the Law Brothers® at (800) 820-0000 as soon as possible for a free case evaluation.