Top Tips to Stay Safe On the Roads as a Motorcyclist

Riding a motorcycle is a convenient form of travel. Motorbikes are cheaper and easier to store than cars or vans, which is largely what makes them so popular.

As exciting and convenient as it is to travel via motorbike, this mode of transport doesn’t come without its risks. Because you are more exposed to the elements when you’re riding a bike, you can easily get injured if you’re in a road traffic accident.

So, if you currently ride a motorcycle or are planning to at any point in the future, you need to take extra precautions to maintain your safety on the roads. Keep reading to learn our top tips to stay safe as a motorcyclist.

Motorcyclist

Top Tips to Stay Safe On the Roads as a Motorcyclist

Sadly, thousands of road traffic accidents involve motorcycles or sports bikes, and many of these accidents lead to serious injuries. Taking extra steps while riding on the roads will help to keep your safe and injury-free. Even the smallest safety precautions could save your life if you’re in an accident or collision on a motorcycle.

If you find yourself in the middle of a road traffic incident and need to take legal action against another driver or rider, contact one of the Lamber Goodnow Motorcycle Accident Lawyers. They will help you to file a claim and gain compensation if the accident was not your fault.

Here are some great steps to follow for maximum road safety as a motorcyclist.

Get your bike checked regularly

Minor faults can lead to accidents and injuries if left unresolved. As a motorcycle owner, it’s your responsibility to keep your bike in optimal condition.

You should arrange a full service once every year with a qualified mechanic to ensure there are no underlying problems with your motorcycle. If you notice any faults in between services, take your bike to get fixed at a garage.

Always wear a helmet

Although wearing a helmet while biking is not a federal law in the United States, it’s a sensible thing to do. The unique laws in each state can vary by age, so it’s important to be aware of your legal requirements if you’re under 18.

Wearing a helmet keeps your head (your skull, brain, and neck) safe. If you’re in a collision that causes you to get thrown off your bike, your helmet will minimize the risk of head trauma.

Even if you think the roads are quiet and safe, it only takes one wrong move to cause an accident. Since your head is one of the most delicate areas of your body, it should be protected at all costs, and a sturdy helmet is the best option.

Your helmet shouldn’t be too tight or too loose, and it shouldn’t obstruct your view. You need a clear view of the road ahead at all times while you’re riding on a motorcycle.

Wear protective clothing

When you’re riding out in the open, your clothing is the only layer of protection that you have in the event of a road traffic accident. There are lots of brands that offer top-quality motorcycle gear, all of which offer everything that you need for maximal safety.

You’ll need the following:

  • Leather jacket – this will keep your torso warm and well-protected. It should be breathable and strong.
  • Leather pants – similar to your leather jacket, leather pants are insulating and protective.
  • Leather gloves – a great pair of leather gloves will protect your hands and improve your grip on the handles of your bike.
  • Riding boots – your boots should have strong grips on the sole so your feet don’t slip on the pedals of your bike. They should cover your ankles as well as your feet.

If you don’t want to wear real leather clothing, there are plenty of fake leather options that are just as effective at keeping you warm and safe while biking.

Stay vigilant at all times

Staying vigilant is essential for every driver or biker. Even the smallest lapse in your concentration can lead to an accident that may result in serious injuries.

When you’re on a motorcycle, you must keep your eyes on the roads at all times and react quickly to potential hazards. Avoid glancing at your phone or adjusting your clothing while you’re riding. If you need to make a call or readjust your helmet, safely pull over to the side of the road.

Ride sensibly

This next type might sound obvious but it’s easy to let your bad habits creep in when you have been riding a motorcycle for several years. Try to keep in mind all of the important riding techniques that you learned to obtain your license.

This means staying within the legal speed limits of the roads, signaling when appropriate, and following road signs. Failure to do each of these things is not only unsafe and irresponsible but it’s also illegal. Failing to follow the rules of the road could lead to hefty fines, a revoked license, or long-term injuries.

Keep an eye on the weather

Unlike when you’re in the confines of a car, you’re fully exposed to the elements as a motorcyclist. For this reason, you need to keep a close eye on the weather.

Although the weather isn’t always predictable, you can gauge the general forecast by checking online before you head out on a ride. Avoid going out in extreme rainfall, thunderstorms, or freezing cold temperatures. You should always take extra caution when the roads are icy, as this can increase your risk of skidding and losing control of your bike.

When you rely on your bike as your main mode of transport, it’s not always easy finding alternative ways to travel. However, it’s much better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure whether it’s safe to ride, it’s probably a good sign that you should avoid using your bike that day!

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