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More people are riding motorcycles these days, which is good for the gas budget but leaves the inexperienced motorcyclist exposed to the road and other vehicles.
Motorcyclists are bound by the same road rules as cars so make sure you’re familiar with what those rules are for your state by reading the Motorcycle Handbook. This is distributed by the government and available free on the Internet.
Even though motorcycle laws are different depending on where you live here are a few common sense safety suggestions anyone can use:
- Know your bike: motorcycle safety starts while your bike is still parked because you can increase your safety by performing a simple safety check. Check the tires, brakes, lamps, horn and chain to make sure all are in top operating condition before every ride.
- Wear your gear: helmets are required in only half the states in the US, but wearing one drastically improves your chances of surviving a head injury in even a minor accident. Other protective gear should include a heavy jacket and pants, gloves and boots.
- Practice control: brush up on your motorcycle driving skills with this free online study guide that covers all the basics so you will be safe on the road.
- Be alert: motorcycle accidents often involve another vehicle because often car drivers simply don’t see the motorcycle until it’s too late. A motorcyclist must be on the defensive at all times by keeping their distance from any moving vehicle, not driving in the blind spot of large trucks and keeping the head lamp on while driving to increase visibility.
The Chicago accident lawyers website has an interesting article about new motorcycle safety technology. The best advice is to know the rules, stay alert and drive defensively.