In 2010 there were 3,615 deaths due to motorcycle accidents in the United States. People who ride motorcycles don’t need to be told the risks involved. In fact, most people ride because of the risk factor.
But the rush you get from riding won’t be dulled if you take the time to practice some smart safety tips.
Be noticeable
It’s bad enough out there when automobile drivers are aware of you, but when they are not things can get really interesting. Make sure you don’t give drivers around you any excuse to miss you. Adding reflectivity to your riding gear may not be at the top of the fashion world but it can definitely help save your life. Also, bright colors that are highly visible can make you more noticeable on the roads. Of course if you are insistent on wearing all black, a loud tail-pipe will definitely get people’s attention.
Keep a safe distance
Following at a safe distance gives you two advantages. First, it gives you more time to react when the person in front of you does something without warning. Second, it allows you to see more of what’s around you. Seeing more means you can better predict what may happen down the road.
Of course, keeping enough distance between you and other drivers also gives you ample room to maneuver when something is in the way.
Move to the side
When traffic slows down you should adjust by moving to the left or right of the car in front of you instead of slowing, or stopping, in the center. This lessens the chance that a car behind you will hit you from behind.
Stay clear of distracted drivers
The guy who is slow to start at a green light because he is checking his email, the soccer mom with the car full of kids, the teenager who is texting while doing 50 miles per hour – these are all examples of drivers you should steer clear of. They are all a recipe for disaster.
Know the conditions
If the forecast calls for thunderstorms or icy roads it may be in your best interest to take a car ride instead of starting up the bike. Even if the skies look clear, if the forecast calls for nasty weather don’t take the risk.
Be careful in wildlife areas
An animal crossing the road can do some serious damage to an automobile that hits it. Imagine what can happen to you if you should hit one on your motorcycle.
If you see a Wildlife Crossing sign, be vigilant. Also, make sure your bike is well maintained and you practice stopping so in the event someone’s pet darts across the road you will be ready.
Learn to ride
It is estimated that half of all deaths from motorcycle crashes result from the rider not being able to negotiate a curve properly. Learn how to ride before you buy a bike and definitely take time to practice before you jump in the saddle for a long ride. See how your bike handles and understand its intricacies.
Jeff Orloff writes for the Consumer Media Network’s Motorcycle Insurance Blog.