Road safety is important no matter what you drive, but motorcyclists should take additional precautions and be even more aware of their surroundings than automobile drivers are. Before you hit the road, here are a few tips for motorcycle safety you'll want to take to heart.
Prepare Your Bike If you've been off your bike for a while, give it a thorough inspection before you take it out. Check the brakes, turn signals, fluid, and fuel levels, and make sure your chain is properly lubricated and adjusted. Fill your tires and check that your cables are in good condition. Before you go out on a long ride, take your bike for a spin around the block and make sure it sounds and feels right. If you're worried about anything, get it checked out before you take it on the highway. Don't take any unnecessary risks by failing to keep your bike in its best possible condition. Suit Up If you think this step makes you sound like a superhero, you might be in the right frame of mind. Just like no hero should go out without a super-suit, no motorcyclist should go out without the proper gear. Wearing the appropriate gear is essential to a safe ride. Get a high-quality helmet that fits well, non-slip gloves, and durable boots that cover your ankles. Leather might be a cliché, but it's not just about looking the part. Leather offers far more protection in case of an accident than denim will. It's also windproof and warm, which will make long rides much more comfortable. If your helmet doesn't have a visor, invest in some goggles or glasses that will protect your eyes from the wind. Be Aware Once you get out on the road, be hyper-aware of what is going on around you. Most motorcycles don't have cruise control, so pay attention to your speed as well as the speed of traffic around you. Drivers should pay extra attention around you, but it's easy for a driver to be distracted by a passenger, the radio, etc., and their moment of distraction could do severe damage to you and your motorcycle. Be Smart According to the Traffic Research Injury Foundation of Canada (TRIF), motorcyclists are at least 15 times more likely to be involved in a crash than automobile drivers, and one in 10 traffic deaths involve motorcyclists. So stay safe by being mindful of other drivers on the road: use your turn signals, brake in plenty of time, and follow the speed limits. Don't think that safety doesn't apply to you. Even when you're just going out for a quick ride, take proper precautions and drive smart. It might make the difference between a safe, enjoyable ride and a statistic. If you would like to know more about how motorcycle safety affects you, call Eisenhauer Insurance. Return to main blog page