Top 5 Motorcycle Safety Tips

Motorcycle crashes remain one of the most prevalent causes of injury and death on the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in a collision than those in a motor vehicle. Following basic safety guidelines can greatly reduce your risk of collision. A combination of abiding by basic driving rules, wearing proper attire, and refraining from drinking and riding will prevent unnecessary injury or an accident. Here are our top 5 safety tips for motorcycle riders.

1. Wearing a helmet is your best defense against sustaining a serious head injury.

We recommend those with a DOT compliance sticker, which ensures the helmet meets basic impact standards. A face shield or protective eyewear will also reduce your risk of severe injury. Don’t forget to replace your helmet if it sustains any damage. Helmets are typically made to protect you from only one impact.

2. Wear proper protective gear and clothing, which will reduce the amount and severity of injuries following an accident.

Always wear a jacket and pants of a sturdy material such as leather or denim. There are many options for proper riding jackets; in the summer months, wear one that is vented to avoid being overheated. Nonskid soled boots with ample ankle support and made of strong leather is also essential. They are your main defense against foot and ankle damage. Gloves should be worn at all times to avoid injury to your hands and fingers. And for added protection while riding at night, wear brightly colored clothing or attach reflective tape to the back of your boots or helmet.

3. Follow traffic rules and ride defensively.

Obey the rules of the road, such as following the speed limit and keeping a proper distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Be aware of your surroundings and of traffic patterns. Also, don’t assume drivers can see you, especially when you are riding in their blind spot. A blind spot is a major danger zone, especially for motorcycles – position your bike where it can be easily seen.

4. Educate yourself about riding.

We aren’t born with the knowledge of how to be a perfect motorcyclist. Fine tuning your riding skills develops with time and practice. However, a formal education program will sharpen your techniques. There are many resources around Virginia which offer affordable educational courses.

5. Be alert and ride sober.

Even one drink can dangerously affect your reaction time and decision making skills. Riding while fatigued can be equally as dangerous. Protect yourself and others from an accident, and only ride when alert and sober.

Motorcycle accidents are not always avoidable. If you or a family member has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, please contact the skilled motorcycle accident attorneys at Rutter Mills. We have been helping injured motorcyclists for over 50 years, and we are here to help you get the justice you deserve for your injuries.