Motorcycle safety isn’t something that most people take into consideration unless they own a motorcycle or are planning to purchase one.
Safety is always important when it comes to traveling so that you can reach your destination safe and sound. Motorcycles can provide freedom when it comes to saving time and traveling routes that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to take if you were driving a larger vehicle.
For this, knowing the right safety tips can be beneficial. Listed below are motorcycle safety tips that most people fail to look at.
Read on!
Wear High-visibility Gear
High visibility clothing is one of the most important motorcycle safety tips that many riders are unaware of. High visibility vests, jackets, pants, and gloves are all key pieces of clothing that can help to make riders more visible to other motorists on the road.
In addition to bright colors, bikers should also opt for clothes that feature reflective materials. Doing so will increase the rider’s visibility considerably, as the headlights of other vehicles will reflect the materials to make them even more noticeable.
Wearing a helmet with a brightly colored cover or brightly colored stickers can also increase a rider’s visibility on the road. Other ways to improve visibility include using bright headlights and applying reflective decals to the sides and back of the motorcycle.
Position Yourself for Visibility
Positioning to maximum visibility to other vehicles can significantly reduce the risk of being involved in an accident with a car or other vehicle. The most important rule is to remain visible to other drivers at all times.
When changing lanes, motorcyclists should use a shoulder check or mirror check to ensure that the way is clear. This should be done while also signaling with the turn signal. Increase the distance between you and other vehicles so they have plenty of time to react in the event of unforeseen maneuvers.
Avoid driving in other drivers’ blind spots, as this greatly increases the risk of being in motorcycle accidents. Be prepared to make sudden adjustments if a driver moves suddenly or cuts you off. Finally, if riders are in a large group, always ride staggered for maximum visibility and safety.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure and Tread
It is important to know the proper tire pressure for your type of motorcycle. This information can be found in your rider’s manual. You can check your tire pressure at home with a tire gauge or take it to a trusted motorcycle shop.
Checking your tire pressure regularly will help you have maximum road grip and avoid any slipping or tire blowouts. When checking your tire pressure, also check for the correct tread on your tires.
Once the tread starts to wear off, it indicates that it’s time to replace your tires. This will ensure proper traction on the road as well as the level of stability and control of your bike.
Practice Emergency Braking
Emergency braking means learning to apply brakes promptly, firmly, and steadily. This can be done while balancing the motorcycle. Learning to control the throttle is also very important in emergency braking. This is because this will help riders maintain balance while braking.
Other safety tips riders should practice when attempting emergency braking are keeping up the:
- elbows
- shoulders
- head
This should be done as well by keeping their eyes focused on where they want to go and lifting their feet off the footpegs when applying the brakes. Keeping calm during such a situation is also something that riders should practice. Failure to remain calm can impair your riding skills and lead to an accident.
Be Mindful of Road Surface Conditions
Rain or snow can make roads slippery and reduce braking effectiveness dramatically. Even something as seemingly benign as spilled oil or diesel fuel can be incredibly dangerous to a motorcycle, causing a quick and unexpected loss of traction. If riding in bad weather, take an extra moment to pay attention to the road surface and the humidity and temperature.
Gravel or sand can be nearly as hazardous as ice, so be aware of any potential hazards as you ride. Always reduce your speed and maintain extra braking distance from cars and other obstacles in low traction conditions. Most importantly, if the situation looks unsafe, simply choose another route.
Use Your Horn and Lights Effectively
Many motorcycle riders forget how important communication is. A great way to communicate with other drivers is by using the bike’s horn and lights. When approaching a blind intersection or an area with low visibility, use your horn to let others know that you are approaching.
Additionally, use your lights to your advantage. High-beam headlights can be used to let oncoming traffic know that you are there and signal your turn.
Keep a Safe Following Distance
Maintain a safe speed. Willingly upholding the speed limit is of utmost importance. When you’re behind another vehicle, ensure you’re keeping at least two seconds of braking time between you and the vehicle ahead of you. This provides ample cushion for abrupt stops.
If possible, keep an eye out for any objects or vehicles that may cross or enter your lane. Signaling your intention when changing lanes is of the utmost importance. When stopped at a stoplight, a safe following distance is necessary.
Letting the cyclist in front of you know you’re still there is key. It’s important to be vigilant and maintain a safe following distance to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.
Always take note that if you don’t follow the motorcycle laws and meet an accident, then you’ll have to get legal advice or hire the services of this lawyer.
Follow These Motorcycle Safety Tips
Motorcycle safety should not be taken lightly. Now that you’re aware of the safety tips that most aren’t, use them to your advantage.
Learning about the latest safety protocols will help ensure a safer ride for you and fellow bikers alike. Now, hop on your bike and get riding!
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