Although cars are the most common form of transportation, motorcycles have their devoted fans. And as the weather warms up, it’s not uncommon to see motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic.
But riding a motorcycle presents its own unique set of safety hazards, and it’s essential to be prepared to protect yourself. Here are 7 safety tips for motorcyclists.
1. Wear the Right Gear
While there’s much debate about whether or not motorcyclists should be required to wear helmets (for safety’s sake, always wear a helmet), there’s a lot of other gear that can protect you on a ride.
Some things to be sure you’re wearing whenever you’re on your bike includes:
- Leather gloves
- Leather jacket
- Boots
- Long, durable pants, like jeans
Not only will these items protect you in the event of a fall, things like gloves and boots make your motorcycle easier to operate by improving your grip.
2. Keep Your Motorcycle in Good Condition
Just like cars, motorcycles require regular care and maintenance to stay running well. If you don’t maintain your motorcycle, you could suffer from expensive – and dangerous – breakdowns.
Before you head out on the road, check your brakes, tires, lights, and engine. Change your motorcycle’s oil similar to your car’s, replacing it fully every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
And if something feels off about your bike, avoid riding it until the problem has been looked at and resolved.
3. Assume Other Drivers Don’t See You
Because your motorcycle is smaller than a car, you’re at greater risk of being hit by another driver. To prevent this, always assume that other drivers cannot see you.
Avoid hanging out in cars’ blind spots, and stay in your lane. Don’t fall into the trap of assuming that you can weave in and out of traffic to get ahead; your safety is worth waiting a little longer to get to your destination.
4. Avoid Riding in Adverse Conditions
On a motorcycle, you are more at risk of weather-related accidents, so it’s important to only ride when the weather’s good.
Snow, fog, ice, and rain can make your trip more dangerous. Keep an eye on the weather before you depart, and make alternative plans to get where you need to be if the weather looks bad.
Similarly, making sure you’re in top condition before you get on your motorcycle is important. Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and if you aren’t feeling well it may be better to find an alternative mode of transportation.
5. Improve Your Skills and Knowledge
Most states require a special license to operate a motorcycle. While requirements to get this license vary from state to state, most require a written test and a skills test.
But don’t stop there. To ensure that your skills on your motorcycle are sharp and you’re aware of any changes to the rules of the road, it’s a good idea to take extra courses throughout the years. These can help you develop your defensive driving skills, making the roads safer for everyone.
6. Let Someone Know When You Head Out
Before you go out on your motorcycle, it may be a good idea to let a friend or family member know where you’re going and what route you plan to take. Let them know when you arrive, and when you head out to go back home.
This may seem overly cautious, but if something happens to you you’ve at least got someone who can call for help.
7. Follow All Laws
Just like when you’re driving a car, you must follow all the rules of the road at all times.
Follow posted speed limits, obey traffic signals, yield right of way when appropriate, and avoid driving distracted. Although all other drivers may not always obey the rules, ensuring you are is one of the best ways to protect yourself from unnecessary accidents.
Motorcycle Insurance in MD, WV, VA, & PA
Even the most careful of drivers can find themselves in dangerous situations. When these predicaments occur, your financial stability – as well as your spirit for adventure – could be at risk.
That’s why you need a motorcycle insurance plan, provided by Antietam Insurance! We offer smart, customizable plans that fit both your needs and your budget. We are proud to serve motorcyclists in Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.