Motorcycles offer an experience, unlike any other vehicle. They come with incredible speed, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. However, motorcyclists are also much more vulnerable in a crash compared to vehicle occupants due to the lack of a protective shell. By following some basic tips, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a motorcycle accident.
Follow The Traffic Rules
As an easygoing rider, following the traffic rules carefully is the foremost thing you need to keep in mind. Make sure you obey the speed limits and lane rules. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and don’t change lanes frequently without signaling. Strictly follow signs like stop signs, yield signs, or pedestrian crossing to avoid any accidents.
Wear Protective Gear
Wearing a helmet, protective jacket, gloves, boots, etc. is essential for every motorcyclist. A helmet protects your head, a jacket protects your body, gloves give grip and protect hands, and boots protect your feet and ankles. Make sure to wear brightly colored protective clothing so other motorists can clearly see you.
Stay Alert At All Times
While riding a motorcycle, your attention and focus should be 100% on the road. Don’t let any electronic devices or the surrounding landscape distract you. Staying alert, focused, and absorbing what’s happening around you helps anticipate dangerous situations before they even happen. Maintain a margin of safety on all sides of the motorcycle at all times.
Don’t Ride Impaired
Alcohol and drugs, including medications, can greatly impair your ability to ride a motorcycle safely. Even one drink can slow your response time and affect your judgment. Many motorcycle accident claims involve riders under the influence of alcohol or drugs, so make an effort to always ride 100% sober.
Go Through Training
If you’re a beginner, enroll in a motorcycle safety foundation course to learn the critical skills required for motorcycle riding. These courses teach you crucial techniques like braking, turning, balancing, etc. to ride your bike confidently on the road. Continuous practice will improve your riding skills and make you an expert.
Scan The Road Actively
Actively scan the road, including areas along the roadway and behind your vehicle. Look for a movement that may catch you off guard like a vehicle changing lanes suddenly, a car door opening, or debris on the road. Scan ahead 15-20 seconds, not just what’s immediately in front of your vehicle. Scan multiple routes so you have options in case of an emergency.
Maintain Your Bike
Ensure your motorcycle is maintained properly before riding on roads. Check tire pressure, tread condition, alignment, lubricant levels, throttle, brakes, lights, etc. regularly, or get it serviced by a mechanic. Well-maintained motorcycles handle predictably in all conditions and help avoid accidents due to defects or component failure.
Ride Defensively
Every motorcyclist should adopt a defensive riding style. Anticipate dangerous behavior from other vehicles and stay prepared to take evasive action anytime. Give other vehicles plenty of space, watch out for blind spots, and assume you’re invisible to other drivers. Don’t ride in a vehicle’s blind spot and avoid confrontations on roads.
