The open road can be a fun place to ride your motorcycle, but plenty of unexpected events can make it dangerous as well. Knowing proper motorcycle riding safety tips can protect you from injuries and even death. Check out these five facts to keep you safe on the road:
1. There are an estimated 9 million motorcycles registered in the United States as of 2012. While many riders can only ride during the summer months, some are able to ride year round. Having more motorcycles on the road during a particular season can make some drivers more cautious, but it’s still important for the motorcycle rider to take the necessary precautions to avoid accidents as well.
2. Many motorcycle riders choose to wear clothing and helmets in order to protect themselves from injury or to shield their exposed skin from the heat from parts of the motorcycle or the road. This gear is mostly made of leather and other durable materials. Helmets are typically made from plastics, and wearing one can greatly reduce the chance of head injury in a collision.
3. Wearing a helmet is the best defense against injury or even death in a crash. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia have universal helmet laws, meaning that a rider is required by law to wear a helmet. However, three states have no helmet laws at all, and the remaining 28 states in the US only require partial helmet laws, meaning that only riders up to a certain age (usually under 21) are required by law to wear a helmet. The states without universal helmet laws put many motorcycle riders at a much higher risk for injury.
4. The partial helmet laws might account for this fact: in 2012, the highest amount of motorcycle-related injuries occurred in riders between the ages of 20 and 24. These riders are likely inexperienced, but all motorcyclists need to stay alert when on the road. Motorcycle operators and those in larger vehicles can all work together to keep everyone safe.
5. To follow up on that last point, just as there are motorcycle riding safety tips for those operating a motorcycle, there are also plenty of motorcycle safety tips for drivers on the road available today, such as keeping a safe distance from motorcycles. However, motorcycle riders can also use certain tips to stay safe around other, larger vehicles. The Department of Transportation recommends that riders look for what’s called the “No Zone” on larger vehicles. This is the blind spot, which means that the driver won’t see a motorcycle behind or next to them. With some vehicles, such as tractor trailers, if a rider can’t see the truck’s side mirrors, then there is a good chance the driver can’t see the rider, either. Be sure to stay aware of these “no zones” any time you ride near other vehicles.
Riding a motorcycle has its risks, but it can also be fun as long as you follow these motorcycle riding safety tips. Safety is important, especially if you want to protect the investment of a custom-made motorcycle. Good maintenance will also ensure your safety, and if your motorcycle needs repair, you can buy motorcycle parts online or visit any motorcycle parts distributors in your area. Once you are aware of the risks and rewards of owning a motorcycle, the fun can begin! Stay safe!
