4,985 motorcyclists were involved in fatal accidents in 2018. While this is number has decreased in recent years, it is still much too high.
Are you a motorcyclist? If so, it’s crucial that you know how to keep yourself safe on the road.
Even if you’re a great motorcyclist, you never know what other drivers or riders are going to do. This is why riding defensively is always a good idea.
If you want to find out how to stay safe on the road with our top 4 road safety tips, keep reading to what you need to know.
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Be Vigilant
You have to be aware of your surroundings every time you’re on the road. When you’re riding a motorcycle, this becomes even more important because you’re less easy to spot by other motorists.
Be cautious as you go into a curve. Watch out for slippery paint or unstable road conditions, including gravel.
If you can, stay away from other vehicles, including motorcycles, when you’re in unfamiliar territory. This will give you more time to react if needed.
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Check the Weather
This is a no-brainer, but something that many experienced motorcyclists forget. Knowing what the forecast is predicted to be before you leave can help you stay safe.
Wet, snowy, or icy roads are dangerous for any motorcyclist.
Remember that you don’t have a windshield or the stability that a car would. You’re also out in the open, so your body is exposed to whatever the elements may be.
If you’ve ever been caught in the rain on your motorcycle, you know that it is not a pleasant experience. You can’t see well, you get hit with raindrops at the speed you’re going, and you have unsafe conditions.
Avoid bad weather as much as possible.
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Examine Your Motorcycle
Even if you ride your motorcycle every day, take a look at it before you go out on the road. Be sure that you have the right tire pressure and that your lights are working correctly.
Walk around the motorcycle to see if any new hazards have popped up, including leaks or loose bolts.
Don’t forget to give your motorcycle regular maintenance and care. In addition to that, if you need to fix something, don’t put it off. Get it taken care of before it becomes more serious or causes a malfunction.
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Follow the Law
Have you ever gone across state lines to find that the laws you’re expected to follow as a motorcyclist change?
For example, Texas requires a valid class M license to ride a motorcycle. Texas requires helmets for any rider under 21, you need insurance to register your motorcycle, and lane splitting is illegal.
In another state, the laws may be completely different. Contact this motorcycle accident attorney if you feel like you need help understanding the law or have recently gotten in legal trouble.
Know the laws in the states that you are riding in, and follow them. Other motorists will expect you to do the same, and if you don’t, you could be putting yourself and others in serious danger.
Practice Road Safety on Your Motorcycle
With these 4 basic road safety tips, you’re well on your way to safe and happy motorcycle riders.
Are you looking for other tips like these to help you on the road? If so, check out our Lifestyle and Travel sections for more.
