The thrill of riding on two wheels is one that many of us can relate to, but despite the adrenaline rush you get from riding your motorcycle, it’s important to stay safe when doing so in order to protect yourself and others on the road. Whether you’re just starting out with your motorcycle or you’ve been riding for years, these tips will help you prevent accidents and remain safe on the road for many years to come. Read on for more about the best ways to stay safe while driving a motorcycle presented by the St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyer!
Have the Right Gear
Although motorcyclists are typically required to wear helmets and high-visibility gear, there’s even more that you can do. Even if you have all of your gear, it’s important that you keep in mind that these things won’t protect you 100% of the time. When riding in inclement weather or at night, always be sure to use proper safety precautions like driving with lights on and practicing defensive riding techniques. If possible, consider having an emergency kit in your motorcycle or carrying one with you when traveling. This will allow you to help others who may need it if they are involved in an accident.
Get Proper Training
If you don’t have an adequate background in motorcycling, you should get some training before hopping onto your bike. If you already know how to ride, make sure your skills are up-to-date and take more advanced courses (like those offered by motorcycle clubs or even at trade schools) for better control and handling. Finally, review Your Gear: Don’t let an improper fit or low-quality gear keep you from having full protection. Although some gear is designed with real motorcyclists in mind, most of it isn’t—so getting high-quality gear is worth it if you want to stay safe while driving a motorcycle.
Follow Basic Road Rules
Following basic road rules is your most important task. Despite what you may think, when you’re riding a motorcycle, you are considered to be a car on public roads. This means that all of the rules designed for cars apply to motorcyclists as well. If you don’t follow these basic road rules, not only can you endanger yourself, but also any other drivers or pedestrians around you.
What To Do If You Do Get Into An Accident?
If you’re involved in an accident while riding, it’s important that you stay calm and assess your situation. If you can, try to pull over (when it is safe to do so) and call 911. Also, if someone else needs medical attention, get their insurance information. After that, call your own insurance company and see if they will help provide any additional services for which you may be responsible for paying. If not, go ahead and get yourself checked out at a hospital; although motorcycles tend to protect their riders very well in collisions compared with cars or other vehicles.
Wrapping it up
Wearing proper gear is essential to staying safe while you ride. It’s also smart to practice defensive riding, such as riding slower in traffic, avoiding tailgating and never making sudden turns in front of others. To stay alert behind your handlebars, don’t listen to music with headphones—it can lull you into a false sense of security and make it harder for you to hear hazards around you.
If you have been hit while riding a motorcycle, be sure to get in touch with the St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Lawyer!
