It’s beginning to get warm and beautiful outside which means the thrill of riding is in the air for many motorcyclists! Riding a motorcycle has become an increasingly popular pastime and form of transportation. Currently, there are nearly 10 million registered motorcyclists in the United States, which is double what it was in 2000.
Riding can be a ton of fun but understanding some important safety tips is vital for a safer, more confident and joyful experience.
- Helmet – Although Colorado law does not require anyone over the age of 18 to wear a helmet, it is vital for your safety. Many of the fatalities recorded show that the driver was not wearing a helmet. According to a study generated by The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), “Helmets are proven to be 37 percent effective at preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle operators and 41 percent effective for passengers.”
- Wear proper shoes – Flip flops may be cute for the summer, but not so cool on a motorcycle. Protect your feet from the road and debris that may fly up and cut you.
- Wearing proper gear – Shorts are absolutely not what you need to wear on a motorcycle. Even if you are not in an accident involving a car, you could possibly slide and doing so in shorts would not feel good on asphalt. Wearing pants can at least protect your leg better. Wearing eye gear is important too because of all the flying debris and rocks you can hit.
- Not following too close – Many accidents have occurred because the person driving the motorcycle thought they were far enough back from the vehicle in front of them. You can never be too safe!!! This goes the same for a vehicle that is behind the motorcycle. Please, don’t get too close to them.
- No distractions – When riding a motorcycle, it is not the time to have a headset on jamming to the latest tunes. Fiddling with your I-phone is not a good idea either. You need to be keeping your eyes on the road and making sure everyone sees you and you see them!
- Watch weather – Rain is not a good idea when riding. Slippery and wet conditions only call for a possible catastrophe. Listen to the weather man and don’t choose the bike if it is looking like rain or snow showers.
- Look twice and look again – You have to be extra cautious when you are on a motorcycle. Always look at least twice to make certain a car is not coming.
- Don’t assume they see you – Large SUV’s and trucks have a difficult time seeing motorcyclists. Make sure you are not in their blind spot. Make eye contact with the drivers of the cars and let them know you are there!
- No trying to be a “hot dog” – This is not the time to show off! Don’t exceed the speed limits and please take precaution when going around curves.
- Take a motorcycle safety course – Not all states require this but what a great idea it is to take and learn all about motorcycles and safety tips and suggestions.
We hope you will consider these safety tips while riding your motorcycle. If, however, you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, please contact associates at the Babcock Law Firm to discuss your case today.
Also, if you have questions regarding riding your motorcycle and other legal issues, please check out our knowledge center and blog.