Motorcycle Safety Tips for California Riders
Nothing is more liberating than hitting the open roads on your bike after a long day. Yet, while countless riders turn to this escape for that much-needed adrenalin rush, it is not without its risks. Big risks! In truth, every year, over 5,000 motorcyclists lose their lives in motorcycle crashes.
That is why, as a rider, there are several motorcycle safety tips that you should consider implementing to ensure that you stay safe on the roads. However, following an accident, if you need further information regarding your legal options and the remedies you may be able to pursue. Reach out to the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Heiting & Irwin at 951-682-6400 and learn how we can help you fight for the justice and the financial recovery you deserve.
Know the Risks and Dangers of Riding a Motorcycle
Even though motorcyclists only make up 3% of the registered motor vehicles on the road, they also account for 14% of all traffic deaths and 18% of all vehicle occupant deaths. Worse yet, the recent trends establish that rider and passenger deaths continue to increase and, in just one year, have gone up by 11%, showing that these tragic accidents are not going away anytime soon. That is why, now more than ever, it is vital that motorcyclists understand what they have to do to stay safe on these roads.
Wear the Right Gear When Riding
Riders need to be prepared for anything on the roads, and one of the easiest ways to meet these challenges is to wear the right gear. This does not mean that they have to have on riding jeans and a thick jacket to go to the store down the street, but if these riders are going for a ride, they need to ensure they have proper apparel.
For instance, some of the specific gear that all riders should consider include:
- DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, full-face helmet if possible
- Motorcycle jacket
- Leather gloves
- Over-the-ankle motorcycle boots
- Motorcycle pants
It is also important that these riders make sure that the equipment they purchase is specifically made for riders to ensure the quality is secure and can handle the elements that riders often are exposed to.
Carry a First Aid Box
Although space is limited on a bike, it is a good idea for riders to carry with them a first aid box. They just need to ensure they find a size that works for them. If none is available, these riders can also find a good size pouch that can fit under the seat and fill it with essential items that may be needed in an emergency.
Choose To Wear Bright Colors
While a lot of the riding gear tends to come in dark colors, it may be worth it for riders to try to find something brighter, especially since wearing high-visibility clothing can improve the chances of other cars seeing these bikers on the road. Some of the best color combinations that help with visibility include solid white, bright red, orange, and yellow. It is also important to ensure that the gear and clothing are reflective.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
No matter if a rider is a beginner or a pro, taking a safety course can be a great opportunity. These courses can go over the basics of motorcycle safety and provide riders with more information regarding biking maintenance and different types of motorcycles.
Additionally, depending on the class, riders may also get riding instruction, where the instructor will direct riders through exercises designed to help motorcyclists feel more competent on their bikes. However, outside of these motorcycle safety tips, one other thing you should consider is that if you or a family member have been harmed in a motorcycle crash, you may want to consider speaking with a compassionate motorcycle accident attorney as soon as you can.
Keep Your Bike Well Maintained
Not only should riders make sure they are ready to hit the road, but they should also ensure that their bike is in proper working order. This means that riders need to:
- Review the motorcycle manual and do a pre-ride check.
- Get hands-on training when it comes to maintaining the motorcycle.
- Make sure that the bike is operating properly before it hits the road by checking the mirrors, the breaks, and other aspects of the motorcycle.
- Understand how to ride a motorcycle in adverse conditions, including high winds, poor road surfaces, and wet roads.
Apply the Proper Riding Techniques On the Roads
Due to their size, motorists often miss motorcyclists on the road or do not see them in their blind spots. As a result, it is often critical that motorcyclists ride defensively or try to predict other people’s driving behavior. These riders should make sure they are alert at all times, continuously check their mirrors, and routinely scan the area to avoid any hazards that may pop up.
In addition, to the defensive riding techniques, the motorcyclist should also:
- Check the weather before going for a ride
- Search for motor vehicles that may turn into their path
- Avoid riding when fatigued
- Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Familiarize themselves with the rules of the road
- Always give motorists time to respond to their bike
Contact Heiting & Irwin to Learn About Your Legal Rights Following a Motorcycle Accident
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, visit with the compassionate and dedicated personal injury attorneys at Heiting & Irwin at 951-682-6400 to ensure your legal and financial rights remain protected.
