Motorcycle safety tips are imperative for any motorcyclist to follow while on the road.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that approximately 5,014 motorcyclists had fatal accidents during 2019. However, they also estimated that 1,827 people survived crashes the year prior because these motorists were wearing helmets. If that simple safety precaution can save nearly 2,000 people each year, then consider how many lives can be saved by adhering to a full list of safety measures.

That said, the fear of an accident should not stop you from cruising on your bike. However, by following the recommended safety measures we’ll detail below, you will decrease the chances of getting into such mishaps.

What Is a Major Cause of Death in Motorcycle Accidents? 

The primary reason people pass away after a motorcycle accident is due to a head injury. A TBI (traumatic brain injury) can occur from extreme blunt trauma, such as slamming into the road unprotected. TBI symptoms usually appear instantly, but some cases have seen them develop within a couple of days, or sometimes weeks, after the accident took place.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: Tips To Follow

Riding a motorcycle is different than operating a car, but keep in mind that road laws apply to all drivers, no matter what their vehicle of choice is. Take the time to consistently educate yourself on road safety, use common sense, and adhere to traffic laws to reduce the chance of being in a fatal crash.

Here are some of the motorcycle safety tips that you should follow to ensure safe riding:

• Wear protective eye gear and a helmet with a face shield

The best possible way to protect yourself against sustaining head injuries is by wearing a helmet. Motorcyclists who avoid wearing a helmet are five times more likely to sustain critical head injuries.

• Wear appropriate clothing

Protective clothing and gear will help minimize how many injuries you withstand if you get into an accident or skid on the road. Wear clothing made from leather, gloves for protection, and boots that have non skid soles. You can also attach reflective tape to what you are wearing, so drivers passing by will easily spot you.

• Adhere to traffic rules

Make sure to stay within the set speed limit. If you are going faster than recommended, it will make it harder for you to stop in time. Educate yourself on local laws and what the basic rules of riding on the road are.

• Ride defensively

Never assume that other drivers can always see you. Two-thirds of motorcycle accidents happen due to drivers violating a motorcyclist’s right of way. Make sure your headlights are always on, stay out of blind spots, watch out for turning vehicles, and signal a change in direction in advance.

• Motorcycle roadside assistance 

Make sure you have a plan with a service that offers various features to help when you are stuck curbside. An excellent roadside service offers roadside assistance along with towing, 24-hour rescue and repair, battery jump starts, and many more valuable services.

• Do not drive intoxicated or sleep deprived

Drinking and driving is an obvious thing to avoid because it is a surefire way to increase the chances of harming yourself and others. Also, drowsiness and fatigue can impair your judgment and slow down reaction times, so make sure you only ride when you have had plenty of sleep.

• Make sure your motorcycle is fit to ride

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is all about upholding the rules you should follow while on the road, and what you should do before starting the journey. Ensure that your motorcycle is good to go by checking the following:

• Check your tires for signs of wear, bulges, or cracks
• Make sure to check for defects or low tire pressure, anything that could potentially cause a blowout
• Levels of coolant and hydraulic fluids should be regulated weekly
• Make sure signals, taillight, and headlight are working
• Test for low and high beams, ensuring that the light functions are all in check
• Check underneath the motorcycle for signs of gas or oil leaks
• Make sure your brakes, both rear and front, are working as well as the horn
• Adjust and clean all mirrors for optimal viewing
• Ensure the throttle and clutch are working as they should, with the throttle snapping back when it is released

Best Roadside Service 

Our team at Best Roadside offers the very best in motorcycle roadside assistance. We are rated #1 for motorcycle roadside assistance at bestroadsideassitancecompanies.com. Whether your bike is your main method of transportation, or just one of the vehicles you or your family use, we offer comprehensive roadside assistance and motorcycle towing insurance so you’re never left stranded. Benefits include:

• Flatbed Motorcycle Towing Insurance
• 24 Hours Repair & Rescue Service
• Roadside Assistance for Motorcycles
• VIP Discounts For Travel & Hotels
• Motorcycle Breakdown Coverage
• Get Coverage for Less than $8 a Month
• Tow Services Up To 75 Miles (see website for details)

Our Individual and Vehicle Plans cover any street-legal motorcycle or scooter – from Suzuki to Harley Davidson, roadside assistance is just one call away. Browse our available plans, check out our reviews, and please contact us today with any question you may have.

The post Motorcycle Safety Tips For A Comfortable And Secure Commute Experience appeared first on Best Roadside Service.

Commercial Fleets

Your business is your bread and butter, and you don’t want anything happening to your livelihood. At Best Roadside Service, we have fully-customizable roadside plans to fit all business requirements because we understand that each fleet is unique and deserves unique treatment. If something happens while your drivers are behind the wheel, rest easy knowing that you’re covered. Our commercial towing and roadside assistance plans include and are not limited to:

• Generous towing amounts
• 6 roadside mechanic service calls per year
• Winching and extrication benefits
• A US-operated call center
• A direct emergency toll-free number
• And more!

Our fully-customizable plans let you take control of your coverage. We’ll also meet or beat any quote because we’re dedicated to getting you back on the road. Your company will save big and you’ll save yourself countless headaches because Best Roadside Service has NO monthly fees!

Consumer Coverage

According to Consumer Reports, roadside assistance is highly recommended. Some things to keep in mind when shopping for a plan is the number of drivers you need covered, what kind of vehicles you have, and how many vehicles you have. When your vehicle is disabled by unforeseen circumstances, Best Roadside Assistance will have you back on your feet before you know it. Our consumer coverage plans include and are not limited to:

• Tow services up to 75 miles
• 3-gallon fuel delivery services
• 24-hour repair and rescue
• $50 towards winching services
• $100 reimbursement for lost keys
• Travel and hotel discounts
• All starting at less than $8 per month!

Why You Should Choose Us

Best Roadside Service’s premium services at one low rate are just the tip of the iceberg. We have flexible member plans to fit every need. We’ll never leave you stuck without options, which is why we offer a 24/7 concierge emergency car service along with routing assistance so you can be on your merry way. Check our helpful FAQ as well for answers to our most commonly asked questions. Give us a call today or fill out our easy contact form to get a quote for your commercial or consumer roadside assistance coverage plan now!

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Riding a motorcycle is a great way to save on gas while having fun. If you have ever ridden a motorcycle before, you are well aware of the fact that bikes are more dangerous than cars. Did you know that motorcyclists were 30 times more likely to die in a crash compared to individuals who ride in cars? The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety conducted a study that showed how much more dangerous bikes are. This study also found that half of these deaths occurred when a single vehicle crashes.

Riding is even more dangerous for older individuals. Motorcycles are becoming more popular among individuals over the age of 60. However, riding is more dangerous because of slower reflexes, brittle bones, poor eyesight and other factors. When involved in a crash, individuals over the age of 60 are three times more likely to end up in the hospital.

It is true that many motorcyclists never get into a crash. You can lower your risks by preparing yourself for this possibility and by following a few safety tips. According to the IIHS, 48% of fatalities recorded in 2010 were linked to speeding and 42% of fatalities were linked to alcohol consumption. You can greatly reduce your risks by respecting speed limitations and by avoiding alcohol when you ride.

It is also important to choose a bike you are comfortable with. If you are new to riding motorcycles or haven’t been on one in years, you will find that there are some very powerful bikes available. Even small-displacement engines are a lot more performing than they used to be.

Look for a motorcycle adapted to your size. Your feet should be flat on the ground when you are seated. If you have to tiptoe, you need a smaller bike. You should be able to easily reach the handlebars and the different controls. You should be able to easily get on and off the stand. If the bike feels too heavy, look for a lighter model. If you are new to riding bikes or just want something you can commute with, a bike with a 250 or 300cc engine is a good choice. The 500 to 700cc range is more adapted for highway riding. Take a look at our report on motorcycle reliability and satisfaction before choosing a bike.

You can make your bike safer with antilock brakes. These brakes are compatible with many different models and could save your life. A report compiled by the IIHS shows that riders with ABS brakes are 37% less likely to get into a fatal crash. Antilock brakes are more efficient and make your bike safer regardless of the kind of bike you have or of your riding habits.

Your brakes might lock if you have to stop in a panic. You will end up losing your steering control and could crash your motorcycle. Skidding and crashing is very dangerous and will likely result in injuries. You can panic stop with ABS brakes while retaining steering control. This will really make a difference if you have to stop on a slippery road.

Most high-end motorcycles come with ABS brakes. Adding antilock brakes to your bike should only cost a few hundreds. Besides, you should be able to qualify for an insurance discount once you upgrade your motorcycle. These brakes are definitely worth it!

Think about signing up for a class so you can get some practice and learn about safe riding. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers riding courses in many states but there are other options available. These classes will teach you how to be safe while riding and you can choose to take a more advanced class if you have been riding for a while. You will learn about evasive emergency manoeuvres that could save your life in a dangerous situation. Some classes are free while some cost up to $350. Some classes will qualify you for a discount on your insurance policy, and taking a safety class means you might be able to skip the road test or the written test to obtain your license in some states. Some manufacturers and dealerships also offer a credit towards a safety class when you purchase a new bike. Check the MSF website to find out more about the classes offered and to find a location in your area. There are over 2,700 locations so you should easily find one in your area.

Even though it is legal to ride without a helmet, doing so considerably increases your risks of sustaining serious injuries. Riding without a helmet makes you 40% more likely to sustain a fatal head injury if you are involved in a crash. It also makes you three times more likely to sustain brain injuries.

The states of Texas and Arkansas saw a respective increase of 31% and 21% in motorcycle fatalities after repealing the helmet law. Orly Acitzur is a neurologist and a medical adviser for Consumer Reports. He explains that repealing helmet laws is not in the best interest of motorcyclists. Helmets can protect the skull and the brain from trauma or at least mitigate injuries, which is why not wearing one is an unsafe practice.

Choose a full-face helmet approved by the Department of Transportation. These helmets will have a DOT certification sticker. You can easily find a comfortable and lightweight helmet that will protect you. Riding with a helmet will also reduce noise and wind fatigue. Avoid riding with an old helmet since they can deteriorate over the years. Ideally, you should replace your helmet once every five years or more often if you are involved in a crash. The Snell Memorial Foundation has conducted some tests and set some safety standards for helmets. This foundation recommends that you replace your helmet at least once every five years due to ageing, exposure to chemicals and hair oil and because new helmet designs and stronger materials will be available.

Invest in the right gear for riding. Wearing jeans, a T shirt and some open shoes increases your risks. Look for gear that will protect you from road rash, debris, bugs and wind chill. A leather or a reinforced jacket is a must-have. You should also invest in some gloves, footwear that will protect your ankles and always wear full pants. You can find jackets with rugged padding and lightweight materials to protect you while providing you with the ventilation you need in the summer. You should also wear goggles or rely on your helmet visor to protect your eyes. Eyeglasses or your bike’s windscreen won’t be enough. Look for brightly-colored gear to be more visible. Some crashes are the results of a car driver not being able to see a motorcycle.

Adopt defensive driving attitude. The University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research studied motorcycle crashes and found that car drivers were responsible in 60% of cases. You need to be on the lookout for distracted drivers when you ride. A lot of drivers are making phone calls or even texting when they drive. Look for cars that might switch lanes without any warning or for cars pulling in front of oncoming traffic. Avoid tailgating and make sure you always have enough space to safely stop. Being too close to the car in front of you means you might not be able to stop on time or might not see an object on the road.

Avoid riding your bike if the weather is bad. Driving on a slippery road increases your risks of getting into a crash. Rain reduces your visibility and makes it hard to stop quickly. Cornering can also be an issue since your tires won’t have the same grip. Be very careful if you have to ride in bad weather. Rain causes oil residues to rise to the surface of the road, which is why conditions are always slippery when the rain first starts. If you have to ride in windy conditions, anticipate the potential push from the wind. You will be safer if you ride on the side of the lane since the wind won’t push you into the other lane.

Road hazards like wet leaves, pebbles or sand are more dangerous for a motorcycle because there is less contact with the road. Your bike might slide if you enter in contact with one of these road hazards. Look for bumps, potholes and other damages. If you can’t avoid a road hazard, your best option is to slow down as much as you can. Reduce steering input as much as possible to avoid losing control. If you have to go over railroad tracks or a similar obstacle, adopt a right angle to avoid skidding.

Always check your bike before going on a ride. You should check that your lights, turn signals and horn are working properly. Inspect the brakes, shaft, belt and chain as well. Look for signs of wear on the tire and check the pressure when needed. Motorcycle mechanics say they often see bikes with worn-out brakes and with tires that are not properly inflated. These things make your bike unsafe. Handling your bike is more difficult if the tires are not properly inflated and you might not be able to steer your bike to avoid road hazards.

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Every year more than a half million people make the trek to Daytona Florida for the annual Bike Week. This year, the 76^th Annual Bike Week kicks off on Friday March 10, 2017 and continues through Sunday March 19. Throughout the 10-day festival, motorcycles fans from across the county can share their appreciation for all things bike related while enjoying everything from concerts to rallies. Of course the best way to get to Bike Week is on your motorcycle, and once there a great deal of time is spent on rides. When logging so many hours on the road it’s crucial to make sure you protect yourself from mechanical breakdowns while on the road.

The best way to protect your bike and yourself from mechanical breakdowns, accidents, and other vehicle problems is to make sure you perform routine maintenance on your motorcycle before heading out, to make sure you are aware of your surroundings and inattentive drivers while you are out, and finally to purchase roadside assistance coverage in case any emergencies along the way.

Before heading to Bike Week make sure your motorcycle is in top shape. Take care of routine maintenance issues like checking and replacing air filters, inspecting tire tread and pressure, checking fluid levels, inspecting brakes, making sure your battery is charged, and inspecting all lights and cables. Performing these routine maintenance tasks helps insure that your journey to Bike Week and your rides once arriving go smoothly.

Once your bike is running smoothly and you are on your way make sure that you are aware of your surroundings. If you are traveling a great distance, know what type of weather conditions you may encounter on the way there or back. In many areas pockets of winter weather may still pop up in early to mid-March. Be prepared for this if your route to Bike Week takes you through these areas. Additionally, remember that other drivers on the road may not be attentive. You need to be extra vigilant when riding in traffic and make sure you are driving defensively.

Regardless of how well you maintain your motorcycle mechanical emergencies can sideline you, and no matter how vigilant you may be accidents can happen. Having roadside assistance coverage for your motorcycle insures that you will never be left stranded on the side of the road. Best Roadside Service is one of the few TOP RATED providers of motorcycle roadside assistance.  The motorcycle roadside assistance plans offered from Best Roadside Service  provide all the traditional roadside assistance benefits for your motorcycle including; 24/7 coverage anywhere in the USA and Canada, emergency towing service via flatbed, battery jumpstart service,  up to 3 gallons of fuel delivery ( gas is free!), and emergency personal assistance such as access to trip and routing services, VIP discounts for travel services and hotels, and concierge service to help you plan your trip to Bike Week.

Performing routine maintenance tasks and being attentive while on the road can go a long way towards protecting you while you ride. Purchasing a roadside assistance plan for your motorcycle can provide you with the peace of mind necessary to enjoy your trip to this year’s Bike Week.

The post Bike Week is Here appeared first on Best Roadside Service.

For many motorcycle riders, winter means storing your motorcycle away while you wait for warmer temperatures and better riding conditions. Now that summer has arrived so has the time to take the bike out of storage and head back out onto the road. Before you strap on your helmet and hit the road there are some basic tips to getting your motorcycle, and you, ready to ride.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Before taking your first ride you need to make sure your motorcycle is in top shape. If you stored your motorcycle away properly for the winter it should be easy to getting it running right again. If not? You may need to be prepared to put some time and effort in to getting your bike road worthy.

Your motorcycle owner’s manual should layout the appropriate summer maintenance tasks that need attention after storing your bike. Basic tasks that need to be performed include; flushing the fuel system (if you failed to add a fuel stabilizer before storing your bike), checking and replacing air filters, inspecting tire tread and pressure, checking fluid levels, inspecting brakes, making sure your battery is charged, and inspecting all lights and cables. Performing these routine maintenance tasks helps insure that your first ride of the summer goes smoothly.

Are you Ready to Ride?

Once your motorcycle is ready to ride you need to make sure you are ready to ride as well. After a long winter driving a car you can become oblivious to motorcycle issues like visibility or road surface hazards. For relatively new riders, and for experienced riders, it may be a good idea to take a refresher course with a local motorcycle-training program. At the very least you should practice your emergency skills in a parking lot. Regardless of whether you take a refresher course or practice on your own, every rider should practice critical skills by performing some cornering and braking drills.

Be Aware of Damaged Roads and Inattentive Drivers

Even though you and your bike are ready for the summer riding season, remember that the roads may not be. Roadways take a lot of abuse during the winter. Between damage from snowplows scraping the surface and repeated freezing and thawing of snow and ice, there is the potential for surface hazards until road crews can make repairs.

Additionally, you need to remember that drivers may not be used to seeing motorcycles on the road after a long winter. You need to be extra vigilant when riding in traffic and make sure you are driving defensively.

Purchase Roadside Assistance Coverage for Emergencies

Regardless of how well you maintain your motorcycle mechanical emergencies can still happen. Having roadside assistance coverage for your motorcycle insures that you will never be left stranded on the side of the road. Best Roadside Service is one of the few TOP RATED providers of Motorcycle roadside assistance.  The motorcycle roadside assistance plans offered from Best Roadside Service  provide all the traditional roadside assistance benefits for your motorcycle including; 24/7 coverage anywhere in the USA and Canada, emergency towing service via flatbed, battery jumpstart service,  up to 3 gallons of fuel delivery ( gas is free!), and emergency personal assistance such as access to trip and routing services, VIP discounts for travel services and hotels, and concierge service to help you plan your next summer ride.

Perform these routine maintenance tasks, practice critical riding skills, and carefully evaluate road conditions before venturing out. Also, be sure to purchase a roadside plan for your motorcycle to provide you with peace of mind. By taking the time to prepare for the summer riding season you can ensure it is a safe and enjoyable one.

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