Getting your first motorcycle can be very exciting! Finally, a chance to live on the edge and feel the freedom of the great outdoors. Colley & Colley law firm in Tyler, Texas, understands your need for speed, so we want to provide you with a few tips new bikers ought to know before hitting the streets.
Find the Perfect Fit
There are plenty of reasons to own the bike of your dreams, but it is important to know your limits. When choosing a body style and engine size, consider your level of experience. As a new rider, it is recommended to get a cruiser or standard bike with smaller engines and lower speed capacities. These bikes make for an easy learning period with generally basic features. Having patience while shopping will increase the chance of finding the perfect beginner bike.
Protect Your Body
Just like your mom always told you, wear a helmet! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 80 percent of motorcycle wrecks result in brain injury. Additionally, riders who don’t wear helmets and who experience a crash are 40 percent more likely to sustain a fatal head injury. But the protection doesn’t end there. Gloves, boots and long pants are highly recommended. It is human nature to try to catch yourself with your hands as a first line of defense, so having wrist supportive gloves will dramatically lessen your chances of severe injury. Boots serve a similar purpose by strengthening your ankles to avoid falling over. Wearing long pants will prevent potential burn from the heated metal frame and exhaust pipe.
Be Aware
Now that you have your perfect bike custom to your abilities and the correct safety gear, you are ready to hit the road, right? New motorcycle owners should be extra careful of their surroundings while driving and for the rest of their riding years. First and foremost, sobriety is key. Driving while intoxicated is always a bad idea, but motorcycles increase exposure due to the lack of protection, otherwise provided by a car or truck, which creates an even greater danger. It is also important to be aware of the street itself. Avoid potholes, loose gravel, sand or dirt. The slightest loss of control can cause major damage to your motorcycle and yourself! The most important thing to remember is the size of your bike compared to the cars around you as well as their ability to see you in their mirrors. Defensive driving is the best way to avoid an accident.
In the case of an accident, contact Colley & Colley law firm in Tyler, Texas, for a free consultation. Attorney Paul Colley Jr. is an avid biker who has made it his priority to protect bike riders and give them the support they need to fully recover from any accident.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
512-477-3335
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