Summer is a popular time of year to ride a motorcycle. Cruising through the warm sun like a free bird is a good feeling for many. However, riding a motorcycle can be very dangerous. Learning how to be a safe motorcycle driver is vital.
Anyone is susceptible to an accident. Many people believe that most of the accidents are young, irresponsible drivers. Not true! In 2010, more than half of the people killed in accidents were over 40 years of age. These crashes are not happening only on busy highways, but on rural roads as well.
Below are some tips to keep a rider as safe as possible on the roads.
- Limit night riding – An estimated 49% of all crashes nationwide happen at night. There are more drunk drivers out in the evening and vision is more limited.
- Watch your speed – Many accidents happen because the driver is going entirely too fast. Again, feeling as free as a bird is great, but driving at excessive speeds will increase your chances of an accident dramatically.
- Watch the weather – If the radar is showing serious rain and thunderstorms, don’t ride the motorcycle! Many accidents occur on slick roads during summer nights. It is best to wait for the weather to clear or go in your vehicle.
- Wear proper clothing and protection – ALWAYS wear a motorcycle helmet. Many deaths result from head injuries that occur due to the driver not wearing proper head gear. Also, protective clothing is necessary to protect your arms and legs. You may feel like wearing shorts during your summer ride, but you need to protect your skin as much as possible. You also need to protect yourself from weather and flying debris.
- Read other vehicles language – Don’t assume that another driver sees you or that their blinker really means they are turning. Be cautious and make certain the vehicle sees you! Bright reflective clothing can help with this as well.
Enjoy your motorcycle this summer, but please do so safely. You want to enjoy your motorcycle for years to come!