Gear up. Wear long pants and sleeves made of leather or another thick, protective material, gloves, eye protection, and durable boots that cover your ankles. Don’t forget to add layers or invest in heavier gear designed for the temps when it gets colder.
Be seen – It is significant to wear bright colors and add reflective elements to your clothing and bike to help motorists identify you. The headlights of the motorcycle should be on during the day or night. While riding your motorcycle, you should ensure you ride it in a visible lane to motorists to prevent sudden crashes. In case you are not certain whether a motorist has seen you or not, it is good to honk and make them aware of your presence around them.
Wear a full-face, approved helmet – (preferably light-colored) for maximum visibility. It was researched and discovered that wearing a motorcycle helmet reduces head injuries in an accident. Without one, you’re twice as likely to suffer traumatic brain injury from a crash. It is advisable to replace your motorcycle helmet regularly (a general rule of thumb is every five years) or after an accident.
Get a motorcycle license – Most countries require bikers to get a special motorcycle license to ride on the roads. A rider must pass knowledge and skills tests to acquire a motorcycle license. Some states also require bikers to take a motorcycle safety course. Going through these rounds pays off when it comes to safety. Some years back, many motorcyclists that died in accidents did not have an appropriate motorcycle license.
Be alert – One should be cautious and stay focused on the road. Motorists who text and drive can pose a great danger to cyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians because they make sudden lane changes and swerves. Watch for patches of sand, potholes, railroad tracks, other road dangers, and fellow motorcyclists.
Beware intersections – Many accidents occur at intersections. A motorist who suddenly turns left in front of you is perhaps the most popular cause of an accident. Therefore, be on high alert so you can respond appropriately.
Never drink or speed – Over 40 percent of motorcycle riders who die in single-vehicle crashes are usually under alcohol. While intoxicated, the motorcyclists ride at very high speed, thus causing many terrible accidents. Therefore, riders should remain sober and observe the speed limit to ensure their safety.
Get professional training – Most motorcycle riders have taught themselves to ride or have been taught by friends. Therefore, it is not a surprise that many bikers are usually involved in accidents. Any new motorcyclist needs to take a motorcycle safety course, and a good idea for experienced riders to take refresher courses, too. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers classes online and in person – some of which could net you an insurance discount.
A heads-up for motorists – Collisions with motorcycles are usually not caused by motorcyclists but by non-motorcycle driver’s fault. Remember, motorcyclists have the same rights as other drivers. Check your blind spot, signal your intentions and avoid distractions.