“Riding a bike is like an art, something you do because you feel something inside.” – Valentino Rossi. While the thrill and excitement attached to riding a motorcycle are high, the dangers associated with motorcycling are just as extreme. Riding a motorcycle at great speeds does not make a good rider, you must be a safe driver as well.
Useful Tips That Every Motorcyclist Must Know About
An exhilarating experience can quickly turn tragic if a motorcyclist doesn’t take proper measures for safety. This does not only include the rider’s safety, but also the well-being of others on the road. If you own a motorcycle and love going on long, adventurous trips, you must take safety very seriously. In this article, you’ll discover 6 useful tips that every motorcyclist must know about.
1. Wear Protective Gear
Motorcycling outfits and gear are not just for show. They are the essentials that protect you from elements like dust, debris, and crashes. If you are ever involved in a road crash, you’ll thank yourself for wearing protective gear while riding the motorbike. Whenever you decide to take your two-wheeler for a spin, make sure to wear your DOT-approved helmet, gloves, goggles, elbow and knee guards, along with a leather jacket and ankle boots. In addition to this, it is best to have layers of clothes to help you adjust to any change in weather.
2. Be Visible
Many accidents happen because drivers are unable to see an overtaking two-wheeler. Since motorcycles are harder to spot than cars, You must never assume that you are visible to other drivers. It is vital to make your presence acknowledged by the vehicles you overtake. You can do several things to ensure that you are visible to other drivers. You should always avoid being in the blind spot of other drivers. In addition to wearing bright clothes with reflective materials, you can drive with your headlights turned on even during the daytime. With that said, if you feel that another driver hasn’t noticed you, sound the horn and use your turn signals to make your intentions clear.
3. Maintain Distance
Also known as tailgating, driving close behind other vehicles can put you at risk of crashing into them. You must maintain enough distance to allow your bike to stop if the vehicle in front of you brakes suddenly. According to a motorcycle accident lawyer in San Antonio, negligence is the main cause of road accidents. Tailgating can be very dangerous and can cause serious accidents, so maintaining a four-second gap between yourself and the vehicle in front is recommended. Doing so will give you enough time to react and enable you to come to a halt in time.
4. Follow Traffic Rules
Neglecting traffic rules and going over the speed limit is not only dangerous but also deadly. Half of the deaths caused by motorcycle accidents are caused by overspeeding. Make it a habit to follow traffic laws, driving under the speed limit, and give proper signals before turning or stopping. The traffic rules and laws are meant to keep you safe and avoid accidents. You owe it to yourself to take care of your life by respecting and obeying the traffic laws.
5. Be Alert and Observant
The best possible way to avoid being in an accident is to drive defensively. This means that when you are on your two-wheeler, your entire attention is focused on your surroundings. It is vital to be alert and observant of everything in your path. Even potholes and oil spilled on the road can be fatal if you aren’t paying attention. With that said, you need to be the most attentive while crossing crossroads and sharp curves. You never know what’s coming from the other side.
6. Inspect Before Trips
Having an ineffective brake or a slightly deflated tire can cause accidents if you’re going on a long trip. Always check your vehicle before you ride on it. Make sure your headlights, signals, and horn are working. In addition to this, check the pressure in your tires and the fuel in the tank. It is important to have the brake oil and engine oil topped up every few weeks. With that said, get your bike serviced thoroughly and regularly if you use it frequently for travel.
Riding a bike is much more fun when you know it is safe. Always wear your protective gear when you take your two-wheeler for a spin. Make sure you are visible to other drivers on the road, and it is best as well to maintain a 4-second distance from the vehicles in front of you. Always obey the traffic rules and drive under the speed limit, as well as be alert and attentive to the surrounding vehicles and other obstacles in your path. Make sure to check your vehicle every time you ride on it to make sure that you travel on the road safely.