Motorcycle Safety: Staying Safe on the Road

Motorcycle accidents happen more frequently than you might think. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle accidents account for approximately 14% of all traffic fatalities each year. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the hazards of riding a motorcycle and take motorcycle safety precautions to stay alive on the road.

If you’re new to motorcycle riding, it’s essential to take a motorcycle safety course to learn the basics of operating your bike. You should also be familiar with your state’s motorcycle laws before hitting the road. Once you have the proper training and knowledge, there are still some risks that come with motorcycle riding. Here are 11 tips to help you stay safe on the road:

1. Wear protective gear: Always wear a helmet when riding your motorcycle. In addition, wear gloves, boots, and long pants made from sturdy materials such as leather or Kevlar. This will help protect you from injuries in case of an accident.
2. Be visible: Make sure you are visible to other motorists by wearing bright-colored clothing and using reflective tape on your bike. Even during the daytime, use your headlights to make yourself more visible to other drivers.
3. Obey the speed limit: It can be tempting to go fast when on a motorcycle, but it’s important to obey the speed limit and drive safely.
4. Be aware of your surroundings: Always be mindful of what’s going on around you while riding. This includes other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles on the road.
5. Use caution in bad weather: Riding in bad weather can be dangerous. If possible, avoid riding in heavy rain or snow. If you must ride in these conditions, take extra caution and go slow.
6. Check your bike before riding: Before heading out on your motorcycle, do a quick maintenance check to ensure everything is in working order. This includes checking your tires, brakes, and lights.
7. Never ride under the influence: Never ride your motorcycle after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. These impair your ability to operate a motorcycle safely and put you at risk for accidents.
8. Be prepared for emergencies: If you get into an accident, it’s essential to be prepared. Keep a first-aid kit with you on your bike in case of injuries.
9. Ride defensively: One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is to ride defensively. This means being aware of other drivers and anticipating their actions.
10. Yield the right-of-way: When in doubt, always yield the right-of-way to other vehicles. This will help avoid accidents.
11. Follow the rules of the road: Obey all traffic laws and signs when riding your motorcycle. This will help keep you safe and avoid getting ticketed.

These are just a few tips to help you stay safe when riding your motorcycle. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of getting into an accident. Remember, safety is always the top priority when riding.If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident that was the fault of another motorist, contact a personal injury attorney at Saladino & Schaaf to discuss your case or call 270-444-0406 (Paducah Office) or 270-753-1529 (Murray Office) for a free consultation today. You may be entitled to significant compensation, but the clock is ticking.