Little in life is more fun than the freedom of riding a motorcycle. Such fun, however, can come to a disastrous end if you are not safe. Following are seven safety tips to help ensure that you have an enjoyable riding season.
1. Gear Up – Riding with the proper gear is essential for your safety. Taking a spill on a motorcycle is dangerous enough, but hitting the asphalt wearing shorts and a t-shirt is a nightmare. Leather is a great option to protect your skin in such an accident. Many companies offer armored clothing for motorcycle riders. It is also helpful to invest in sturdy shoes that protect your feet from the heat of the engine and let you easily shift gears.
2. Get Trained – Many states require a motorcycle safety course before granting a license. Even if your state does not require such a class, getting educated in motorcycle safety is a good idea. These classes offer helpful guidance and great tips for avoiding accidents and dealing with emergency situations.
3. Increase Your Space – Although motorcycles are smaller, lighter, and more nimble than automobiles, they still need adequate space to maneuver and stop. Many older bikes don’t have the advantage of antilock brakes. Be sure to give yourself adequate space between your bike and the other vehicles on the road, and try to have an escape route open to your side.
4. Weather Watch – For longer rides, be sure to check the weather report before heading out. If possible, avoid riding in rain, ice, or snow. Be aware that oil and other residue can accumulate on the road making rain storms particularly dangerous (especially the first rain after spell of dryness).
5. Know Your Skills – A key to riding safely is to understand where you sit when it comes to your level of riding skill. Always be comfortable with what you are doing. Don’t ride too fast, weave between traffic, or speed down curving roads before you feel comfortable doing so. Understand that experience brings safety.
6. Nix Distractions – As you know, safety in riding requires that you are aware of your environment at all times. Knowing that many drivers fail to watch for motorcycles means that you must be hyper-vigilant when watching for potential dangers. Avoid fiddling with the smartphone, ipod, or other electronic devices, or riding when you are too tired to focus.
7. Wear a Helmet – The single safest thing you can do when you ride is to wear a helmet. Head injuries are the leading cause of death for motorcyclists. A proper helmet will fit well–not too tight or loose–and will not obstruct your vision. Purchase a helmet that satisfies minimum standards of safety and protection.
Help When Faced With a Motorcycle Accident
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, especially if that accident is due to the careless actions of another drive, you should contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney immediately. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can review the facts of your case and determine whether you have a viable claim. If so, they can help you seek the compensation you deserve.