Reducing Your Risk of an Accident: Motorcycle Safety Tips for Every Biker

Reducing Your Risk of an Accident: Motorcycle Safety Tips for Every Biker

Whether you’ve been an avid motorcyclist for 20 years or you just bought your first motorcycle, it’s important to know how to stay safe while sharing the road with other motorists.

As a motorcyclist, you are more likely to be injured in an accident simply because you have less protection than when you drive your car. According to the Insurance Information Institute, 5,286 people were killed in a motorcycle accident, and motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to sustain fatal injuries while operating a motorcycle than a standard vehicle.

Here are some safety tips to consider, regardless of your experience on a motorcycle.

Always Wear Your Helmet

Some states have specific helmet laws, and a few have none at all. Despite which state you live in, you should always wear a motorcycle helmet whether you’re operating the motorcycle or are a passenger. Helmet laws apply to other vehicles as well, including scooters and electric bikes.

Many motorcyclists make excuses for not wearing a helmet such as it being too hot, uncomfortable, or even messing up their hair.

According to David A. Manzi, a Rock Hill motorcycle accident lawyer, traumatic brain injuries and other severe injuries are still possible even when wearing a motorcycle helmet, but a helmet can help reduce your risk of a TBI by about five times. Find out more about tramatic brain injury and specialists who treat this.

If you think that helmets are uncomfortable, find one that fits well and provides adequate ventilation. Once your helmet becomes damaged or shows wear and tear, replace it immediately.

It’s also a good idea to wear protective clothing, such as a jacket, that is reflective or brightly colored for riding at night.

Learn How to Ride

Not only is there a chance that you can get a discount on your insurance by taking motorcycle classes, but it may be a requirement depending on where you live. Whether you’re riding a motorcycle for the first time or you’re an experienced motorcyclist, motorcycle classes are essential to staying safe.

There are classes designed specifically for beginners, that cover some of the basics, and there are also classes for experienced riders to help them improve certain techniques (such as defensive riding).

Know and Follow the Rule of The Road

Robert J. Haddad, a Virginia Beach car accident lawyer, says that it’s important to remember that both vehicle drivers and motorcyclists are expected to follow the rules of the road, and often, the same rules apply.

Some motorcyclists fail to follow the rules of the roadway, and it can put them at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. If you’re unsure about some of the rules, contact your state’s department of transportation.

Be A Defensive Rider

Nearly every accident involving a motorcycle and a standard vehicle is preventable, and according to St. Louis, MO motorcycle accident injury lawyer, Benjamin J. Sansone, many of the accidents are due to the negligence of another motorist.

Since many drivers are inattentive, distracted, and even aggressive while behind the wheel, it’s important to know how to ride your motorcycle defensively. Even if you wear bright reflective gear and make yourself visible, it’s important to ride as if no one else can see you on the road.

These are just a few things to keep in mind as you enjoy your bike. Following these tips will keep you safer and keep others on the road around you safer as well.