Motorcycle riding is a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages. It can be a great way to see the sights, get fresh air, and enjoy the open road. However, it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved in motorcycle riding, as accidents can happen even when riders are careful. Here are seven pieces of advice on avoiding injury as a motorcycle rider.
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1. Wear Proper Gear
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself when riding a motorcycle is to wear proper gear. This means wearing a helmet, protective clothing, and sturdy shoes. Many riders also wear goggles or glasses to protect their eyes from the wind and dust.
If you are involved in an accident while wearing proper gear, you are much less likely to suffer serious injuries. In addition, with the help of a lawyer, you will have a higher chance of winning your injury case if you were involved in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault. Most insurance companies will also consider whether or not you were wearing proper gear when determining how much they are willing to pay out in an accident claim.
2. Follow the Rules of the Road
As a motorcycle rider, it’s essential to be aware of the road’s rules and follow them. This will help keep you safe while riding and will also help to avoid accidents. There are several rules that all motorcycle riders should follow, including the following:
- Never ride while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Always wear a helmet
- Obey all traffic laws
- Use turn signals when changing lanes or turning
- Stay out of the blind spots of other vehicles
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
Following these rules will help you stay safe while riding and will also help to reduce the risk of accidents. However, it’s important to remember that no matter how carefully you ride, there is always the potential for an accident. So always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid accidents.
3. Ride Defensively
One of the best ways to stay safe when riding a motorcycle is to ride defensively. This means being aware of the risks involved in riding and taking steps to avoid them. It also means being prepared for the unexpected, such as a car turning into your path or a driver opening their door without looking.
By riding defensively, you can reduce the chances of being in an accident. And if you are in an accident, defensive riding may help you to avoid serious injury.
4. Use Caution at Intersections
Intersections can be dangerous for motorcycle riders, as they are a common location for accidents. In fact, according to data from the NHTSA, intersections were the scene of more than one-third of all fatal motorcycle accidents in 2020.
To stay safe at intersections, it’s important to use caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to look both ways before proceeding through an intersection, and be aware of other vehicles entering the intersection. If possible, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. And always use your turn signals when changing lanes or turning.
5. Be Visible
Another important safety tip for motorcycle riders is to be visible. This means wearing bright clothing, using your headlight, and making yourself visible to other motorists.
In addition to wearing bright clothing, you can also increase visibility by attaching reflective strips to your bike or helmet. And always use your headlight, even during the day. By making yourself more visible, you can help to avoid accidents.
6. Avoid Distractions
When riding a motorcycle, it’s important to avoid distractions. This means keeping your eyes on the road and being aware of your surroundings. It also means avoiding activities that could take your attention away from riding, such as talking on the phone or listening to music.
If you are distracted while riding, you are much more likely to be in an accident. So always stay focused when riding and avoid doing anything that could distract your attention from the task.
7. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
One of the best ways to stay safe when riding a motorcycle is to take a motorcycle safety course. These courses give riders the skills and knowledge they need to operate a motorcycle safely.
Most states require motorcycle riders to take a safety course before getting their license. And even if you’ve been riding for years, it’s never too late to take a refresher course. Motorcycle safety courses can help you brush up on your skills and improve your safety while riding.
Following these safety tips can help you avoid accidents and injuries while riding a motorcycle. But it’s important to remember that even the safest rider can be involved in an accident. So always be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid accidents.
