Riding on a motorcycle is very exhilarating. There’s the wind against the face, the feeling of flying, and the freedom of not being constrained by seatbelts. Because of the exhilaration they feel while driving a motorcycle, drivers tend to forget that motorcycles are more prone to road accidents. There’s no steel frame to protect the drivers against a collision, and there are no seatbelts that can prevent them from being thrown to the sky then crash hard to the ground. They only have helmets that can protect their head and face, leaving their body defenseless.
For this reason, you have to be extra safe when you’re riding a motorcycle.
The Importance of Wearing Safety Gears
The most important safety gear that motorcycle drivers should have and must wear while on the road is the helmet as this can help protect the head and the face. The helmet is made of tough and very durable material. It cushions the head against hard objects, and if the helmet has a visor that covers the face, it helps prevent facial damages.
For long drives, it is recommended for the driver to wear protective gloves, boots, and a jacket. The gloves can protect the driver from handlebar grazing, and it can also protect the driver from cold, so, too, can the jacket and boots.
If the driver is going to drive at night, then wearing reflective clothing can help prevent road accidents. It makes the motorcycle driver more visible to other drivers at night.
The Lights and Brakes
Another way that can increase safety while driving the motorcycle is to switch on the lights, not only at night but also during the day. The front light should also be switched on during foggy days. Again, this makes it easier for other drivers to see the motorcycle as well as illuminate the road during nighttime.
Of note though; before hitting the road, the driver should see to it that all motorcycle lights are in good working condition. He has to make checking the front light, tail light, and brake light a habit before driving the motorcycle.
In addition to checking the lights, the driver should also check the brakes. Make sure that the front and back brakes are working perfectly well.
Be a Defensive Driver
Motorcycles can go fast. The faster it is, the more thrilling the ride. However, the driver should exercise extreme caution while driving the motorcycle. There should be no need for speed even if he’s late for an appointment. Always ride at a very safe speed to avoid road accidents. In addition to this, never drive a motorcycle when drunk.
Always be on the lookout for other drivers as well as people and animals crossing the street. Keep an eye on the road at all times, especially at intersections and crossings where most motorcycles occur. He should also be more alert when entering highways or when he’s changing lanes or turning.
Finally, follow all road and traffic rules. Getting into a motorcycle accident is no small thing. If you caused the accident, you could end up not only paying a fine but facing jail time as well.
Jennifer Daley writes for http://www.elliotsavitzlaw.com/ a trusted criminal defense lawyer. Through this article, she hopes to help people avoid motorcycle accidents.