Riding a motorcycle will offer you a unique experience that feels unlike any other. But although driving a bike comes with the benefits of easier parking, speed and low fuel costs, it also has an increased risk associated with it. Motorcycles are more exposed to accidents, and statistics show that each year, a high number of motorcycle riders are seriously injured or killed. For example, in 2020, the number of motorcyclists killed reached 4,308 in Great Britain. 

To stay safe on the road, motorcyclists must act cautiously and always wear protective gear. Here is everything you need to know about motorcycle safety tips. 

Get the right gear

You will always have greater freedom on the open road on a motorcycle, but you will also be more exposed to hazards and dangers. If you get into an accident without wearing the right gear, the consequences can be fatal, and you could lose your life. But even if you are never in a collision, simple things might hurt you. For example, you might get hit by a rock on the road, which can have terrible outcomes when you are unprotected. 

However, you will have an improved layer of protection if you wear the right gear. Here is the protective gear you need to have while driving your motorcycle.

• Helmet: Motorcyclists should always wear helmets, as these simple items can really save lives. The risk of death increases if you don't wear a helmet, so don't take any chances and wear a high-quality one that meets the Department of Transportation Safety Standards. Most motorcycle fatalities cause head injuries, so you need to pay attention when you choose your helmet. Your helmet should fit your head properly, have zero slippage, no vision obstructions and cover most of your head. Also, remember that a full-face helmet will offer greater protection, so don't opt for windscreen models. 

• Protective Clothing: Road rash can be a real threat, and the riders who have suffered the pain probably know this aspect. So, getting fortified jackets and riding pants will be better to make the burn less likely to appear.

• Gloves: Your hands must also be protected while riding your motorcycle, as they can be exposed to all the road elements. So, it will be better to opt for high-quality gloves to keep your hands safe without impeding your dexterity.

Boots: Sturdy boots are also essential to wear, as they ensure protection in case of a crash and protect your skin from the engine's heat.

Maintain your bike in good shape

Many riders leave their bikes in the garage and drive them only on special occasions. However, if you haven't used your motorcycle for some time already, you must check it and ensure it is in good shape before riding it, especially on long drives. 

Even if you ride your bike daily, you should still give it a general safety inspection before you head on the road. Keep a list of things you must check, then inspect all the parts. For instance, you must see if your signals and lights are working properly. Then, you will need to check the tire pressure and ensure there are no signs of loose parts or damage anywhere on the bike.

Look twice

This tip might be more suitable for car drivers, but motorcycles should also double-check to ensure they are safe and will not get involved in a car accident. Motorbikes are smaller than cars, making them harder to see. This is why numerous motorcyclists get involved in an accident, as the other drivers don't check enough their environments and miss motorbikes. 

Most motorcycle accidents are caused by car drivers. So, even if motorcyclists respected all the legislation and kept their distance, they might still get involved in an accident because of another party's negligence. Although motorbikers can get compensation if they were involved in an accident that didn't happen because of their fault (check out more at www.personalinjuryclaimsuk.org.uk), it is better to double-check to reduce the chances that an accident will happen. 

Pay attention to the weather

You also need to check the weather, as adverse weather conditions are one of the reasons why motorcyclists get involved in an accident. So, look at the weather before, especially if you are going on a long road. Motorbikes are not as solid as the other vehicles, so riding in adverse conditions can be more dangerous. Additionally, because there are only two wheels, the traction and visibility during rain are reduced, which can lead to more accidents. 

Therefore, you should always check the weather and postpone your trip if there is heavy rain or snow.

Leave sufficient space

One of the most common mistakes drivers make is not leaving enough distance behind the vehicle in the front. This is also important for motorcycles, as even though a bike stops faster than a car, it still needs a fair bit. For example, a motorcyclist driving at 70 mph will need around 245 feet to brake. 

Ride sober and alert

It should go without saying that driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is never a good idea. Also, you shouldn't ride if you are overly stressed or sleep-deprived. The risks in doing so increase for each person, but especially for motorcyclists who need to have a fast reaction time and be at their full faculties. 

The other driver participants often ignore motorcyclists, so they need to ride with more attention to ensure they stay safe. But that can't be done when a person is exhausted or tired. 

Conclusion

Riding a motorcycle can be an exciting and pleasurable experience. Still, you need to understand the risks you expose yourself to and take precautions to reduce the chances that an accident will happen. Wear your gear, always check your environment, and be alert so that nothing bad will happen to you.  

 

 

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