Motorcycles can be enjoyable modes of transportation. They make purring noises when revved up and they usually come with awesome riding paranelphia in the form of leather jackets and riding boots. However, as awesome as motorcycles can be they can also be magnets for danger if not operated with caution. In 2013 88,000 motorcyclists were injured while on the road. Motorcyclists are also 26 times more likely to be injured in an accident that those in automobiles. Injuries sustained during motorcycles are often severe and can be fatal. Without the armor and safety of an automobile it is very important to take extra precautions while behind a motorcycle.
Listed below are 5 ways to stay safe while riding your motorcycle:
1. Ride with a clear head
If you find yourself in an emotional or unstable state it is in your best interest to preserve your safety and the safety of unsuspecting drivers on the road by staying off your bike. Although, it may be tempting to hop on your bike and ride off some of your steam it is unsafe to ride when you are in an emotional state. Feelings of rage or sadness can distract you and cause you to make fatal mistakes on the road.
2. Appropriate clothing
For motorcyclists leather jackets do not serve as fashion statements, they serve a functional purpose. Leather jackets protect motorcyclists from bad weather and potential road rash. While riding a motorbike clothing items such as sandals, shirts made from thin material, and shorts/skirts are inappropriate for the road because they offer very little protection.
3. Ride with a helmet
Without the steel protection an automobile offers it is very easy to become roadkill. Motorcycles expose us to a lot of danger especially if we collide with an automobile or object on the road. For this reason it is always smart to ride with a quality helmet. There are many things we can skimp on price over, like toilet paper. However a motorcycle helmet is not one of those things. Your head contains the most important part of your body--your brain, for this reason the protection meant for your head should be of good quality.
4. T.C.L.O.C.S
Tires, controls, lights, oils, chassis, and side stand make up the acronym to remember quick motorcycle inspection before you ride. Checking these 6 things can be the difference between a fun ride and a trip to to hospital on a stretcher. Low tire pressure, a jammed handlebar, broken taillight, low gas reserve, and a damaged sidestand are problems to look out for before you hop on your hog.
5. Be more cautious
The difference between a motorcyclist on the road is about 2,000 pounds and an airbag. If you are involved in an accident with a automobile driver you can almost guarantee that your injuries will be more severe than the other drivers injuries. For this reason practicing self preservation by being extra cautious is advised. You may think that the driver in the Ford Explorer saw you signal, but that driver might disagree. To avoid accidents on the road be extremely watchful when weaving through other drivers and signaling to cross lanes.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident feel free to contact us at Colley and Colley.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
512-477-3335
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