Motorcycling is an exhilarating experience, but it can also be dangerous. Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed in motorcycle accidents. In order to stay safe while riding, it is important to understand the risks and take precautions. Here are some motorcycle safety tips for new riders to help keep them safe on the road.
The risks of motorcycling
The risks of motorcycling are well-known. In 2016, over 5,000 motorcycle riders were killed in accidents in the United States alone. But despite the dangers, millions of people continue to enjoy riding motorcycles. There are a number of things that new riders can do to stay safe on the road.
1. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course: One of the best ways to reduce the risk of accidents is to take a motorcycle safety course. These courses teach riders the basics of motorcycle operation and how to avoid common mistakes.
2. Wear Protective Gear: Wearing the proper protective gear can help reduce the severity of injuries in an accident. Riders should always wear a helmet, as well as other protective clothing like jackets, gloves, and boots.
3. Drive defensively: Driving defensively is important for all drivers, but it is especially important for motorcycle riders. This means being aware of other vehicles on the road and anticipating their actions.
4. Be Visible: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles on the road. To help make sure you are seen, wear bright clothing and use your headlights.
5. Ride Within Your Limits: It is important to ride at a speed that is comfortable for you and within the limits of your skill level. Riding too fast can increase the risk of accidents.
6. Lane Splitting: Lane splitting is ONLY legal in California. In all other states, motorcycles must stay in their own lane and not merge with other drivers.
By following these motorcycle safety tips, new riders can help reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and fun riding experience.
Common motorcycle accident causes
Motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence on the road. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle riders are 29 times more likely to die in a crash than drivers or passengers in cars. There are many reasons for this, but one of the most common is that motorcycle riders simply don’t know how to stay safe on the road.
If you’re new to riding motorcycles, it’s important to be aware of some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents so that you can take steps to avoid them. Here are four key tips to help keep you safe while riding your motorcycle:
1. Speeding: Riding at an unsafe speed is one of the most common motorcycle accident causes. speeding makes it difficult to control the motorcycle and increases the risk of losing control and crashing.
2. Alcohol Use: Alcohol use is a major contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, making it more difficult to operate a motorcycle safely.
3. Weather Conditions: Weather conditions can also lead to motorcycle accidents. Wet roads, for example, can make it difficult to maintain control of the motorcycle.
4. Distractions: Distractions are a leading cause of accidents for all drivers, but they can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders. Taking your eyes off the road, even for a second, can lead to an accident.
By being aware of these common motorcycle accident causes, you can take steps to avoid them and help keep yourself safe on the road.
Final thoughts
Riding a motorcycle can be a fun and exhilarating experience. But it’s important to remember that motorcycles are also dangerous. Every year, thousands of people are killed in motorcycle accidents.
If you’re new to riding, there are a number of things you can do to stay safe on the road. Take a motorcycle safety course, wear protective gear, drive defensively, and be visible. And always ride within your limits.
By following these safety tips, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy a safe and fun riding experience.
