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
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