5 Critical Motorcycle Safety Tips

5 Critical Motorcycle Safety Tips

Motorcycle Accidents

As summertime is rapidly gearing up, the light breeze and warmer weather makes it a perfect time to get on your motorcycle and go. But while you may be tempted to do just that, before you rev it up it’s important during this Motorcycle Safety Month to bear in mind what you can do to keep yourself safe on your motorcycle. Here are some tips.

1) Always Wear a Helmet

Did you know that helmets prevent motorcycle fatalities 37%  and prevent serious brain injuries by 67% ?

Although there currently is controversy about the motorcycle helmet law, these statistics are critical. Riding a motorcycle is inherently dangerous, and always wearing a helmet can help save lives. Make sure you have a  helmet that fits correctly and set a good example for other riders by wearing one.

 2) Make Sure Your Body is Protected

 In addition to wearing the right helmet, it is also important that you were the right clothing and gear to protect your body from harm too.

If you are involved in an accident, there is a good chance that you will come into contact with the road. When this happens, the associated friction can cause severe “road rash” and damage to your body. That’s why it’s imperative to make sure that your arms; legs, hands, feet, and ankles are covered.

Even as the weather gets warmer, wearing a leather jacket or something that can provide a barrier between you and the roadway can make a really big difference.

3) Inspect Your Bike Before You Ride

 While we can’t control what other people do, we can control what we do to minimize our risk of being in a motorcycle accident. We must stress the importance of inspecting your bike prior to every – single – ride. While this may seem excessive, mechanical issues can result in severe injury. Before you ride to take a look to ensure that:

  • Your horn is working;
  • There’s nothing on your mirrors that can obstruct your view;
  • Your mirrors are still in the proper position;
  • Your tire pressure is at a safe level;
  • There are no cracks or bulges on the tires themselves;
  • There’s nothing leaking from your bike;
  • Your fluid levels are safe (you can check this on a weekly basis);
  • Your brakes, clutch, and throttle are working properly; and
  • Your signals and lights work.

 

4) Take a Motorcycle Safety Course

 Not only can taking a motorcycle safety course lower your insurance premiums, but it can also help you to understand both basic and advanced techniques in order to become a safer, more reliable driver. These courses can also serve as a great way to meet other bike enthusiasts.

5) Follow the Rules of the Road

When you’re cruising around on your motorcycle it’s easy to feel as though the rules of the road don’t apply in the same way to you as they do with standard passenger vehicles. You may feel inclined to weave in and out of traffic rather than waiting in line. But remember that it can be quite difficult for other drivers to see you – especially when you are in their blind spots. Therefore you should always follow the law and do your best to let other motorists anticipate what you do next.

 The Goss Law Firm Can Help

When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it can cause serious, often life-threatening injuries. Medical bills and missed wages can lead to financial problems. But you should not have to pay for the negligent mistakes of someone else. That’s why it is so important to consult with a qualified Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Attorney. He or she will listen to your story, provide legal advice, and walk you through the legal process in an effort to help you get your life back again.

 If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, due to the negligence of another, you should get the compensation that you deserve. The Kansas City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at The Goss Law Firm will fight for your rights. To learn more or to schedule a FREE consultation, call 816-527-8658 today!