Is there anything better than hitting the open road on your motorcycle? The feeling of freedom as the wind hits your face, the enjoyment of riding with like-minded motorcyclist friends- it’s hard to find anything that compares!
If you own a motorcycle, you’re probably already planning all of the amazing adventures you and your bike can have this summer. However, in order to get the most out of your motorcycle adventures, it’s crucial to follow a few safety guidelines. Here are some of the top tips for staying safe- and keeping others safe too- when you’re riding.
Always (ALWAYS) Wear a Helmet
We hope we don’t even have to say this, but wearing a helmet is both the easiest and the safest thing you can do as a motorcycle owner. While not all states currently have helmet laws, it’s in your best interest to wear one every time you hit the road. Need a sobering statistic to drive our point home? In 2016, 41 percent of all fatally-injured motorcyclists were not wearing their helmets. By wearing one each time you get on your bike, you’re helping to save your own life.
Follow Traffic Rules
It’s important to obey all rules of the road no matter what kind of vehicle you drive. For motorcyclists, making sure to signal properly, ensuring that other drivers can see you, and changing lanes safely can all be the difference between life and death. Be sure to always follow traffic rules whether you’re on an 8-lane highway or just taking a quick ride to the store.
Ride Sober
In 2018, 1,213 fatally-injured motorcyclists were found to be driving drunk at the time of their accident. Not only that, but motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were found to have the highest percentage (25%) of alcohol-impaired drivers than any other vehicle type. Bottom line: if you think it doesn’t count as drunk driving because you’re not operating a car, truck, or SUV, think again!
Eyes on the Road
It’s easy to become distracted by something- your smartphone, eating, tiredness- when driving, but it’s absolutely critical that you keep your eyes on the road! Distracted driving is the leading cause of all accidents, with 3,142 lives lost in a distracted driving accident in 2019 alone. If you need to do anything that takes your concentration off of the road for even a few moments, pull over. If you’re feeling drowsy after riding for long distances, pull over. And if you need to make or receive a phone call or text, or check your GPS for directions, pull over!
Riding your motorcycle is likely one of the greatest joys in your life, and we hope you can enjoy many sun-drenched days cruising down the road on your bike this summer. Be sure to follow these safety tips for the best-and safest- experience of all!
