Worsening traffic and expensive fuel prices can make one hesitate to bring their cars to work. Commuting via public transport is always an option, however, it can be time-consuming and rigid. When you need to get to your destination in the shortest possible time and if you want to save up on fuel costs at the same time, riding a motorcycle is the perfect solution. Apart from the speed and convenience, it is also an exciting way to get to places. Imagine weaving in and out of traffic and feeling the wind – riding a motorcycle can be euphoric.
However, it can’t be all about the speed and the thrill. Riding a motorcycle means you also need to be safe, especially since you are exposed to the elements. Many things can go wrong when you do not exercise safety precautions while on your motorcycle. You can suffer serious injuries from an accident, for instance. You can even lose your life.
Here are some safety tips when riding a motorcycle:
- Always wear a helmet. It is the best way to protect your head against injuries, and a helmet-less rider is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury. Apart from protecting you from injuries, it also protects you from the elements, so you are relatively safe against the scorching heat of the sun, strong winds, and heavy rains.
- Do not ride your motorcycle when it is raining. Roads are extra slippery when it rains, so you are more prone to accidents, especially when you overspeed. The limited visibility can also make it more difficult from other motorists to spot you, so there is a chance that your motorcycle might collide with other vehicles. You can also collide with road obstacles. Keep in mind that it is always better to exercise caution than to shell out a lot of money to pay for the damages caused by an accident.
- Wear appropriate gear. Make sure to wear the gear and clothing that minimizes your chances of getting injured in case you skid off the road or meet an accident. Boots with nonskid soles, leather clothing, and pants in thick material, and gloves can protect your body from severe injuries. It is also a good idea for your clothing to have reflective tape to make you more visible to other drivers, especially if you are on the road during nighttime.
- You also need to follow traffic rules, particularly the speed limit. Remember that the faster you are, the longer it takes for you to stop. It is also highly advised that you do not share the same lane with other motorcycles, especially if you are going fast. An obstacle may show up while you and the other rider try to avoid them, so one of you has to take the other’s safety zone, leading the other to swerve into the next rider or end up a wreck to the side. Always keep a staggered formation to ensure that you and other riders stay visible.
- Lastly, always make sure that your motorcycle is in top condition before you head out. Make sure you have enough brake fluid, your tires are properly inflated, your tire treads are not faded, and that your battery power is adequate.
Accidents, however, can happen anytime but riding properly and wearing the right gear can reduce injuries and damages. In case you’ve been involved in an incident, contact an attorney specializing in motor accidents to help you get the compensation you deserve, especially if you’re not at-fault party.
