A motorcycle is one of man’s greatest inventions. Two wheels, a powerful engine, and the open road; this is a formula for unlimited freedom. But freedom comes with responsibility and risks. And when it comes to motorcycles, lots and lots of risks. Motorcyclists are vulnerable to a variety of elements on the road. Even riding over roadkill can be disastrous in some cases. This is why motorcyclists should be extra wary of the dangers of the road. And, in the unfortunate event that you or someone you know is involved in an accident, it is crucial to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. This legal professional can help the victim through the complications involved in the compensation claim process.
5 Safety Tips for a Motorcycle Rider to Prevent Accidents
Most accidents are avoidable to some extent. Here are some tips for motorcyclists to stay safe on the road.
1. Don’t Ride While Under the Influence of Alcohol
Alcohol often gets a bad rap. But the main culprits are those who get drunk and decide to operate a vehicle. Not only are these people risking their lives, but they’re putting others around them at risk as well. Alcohol does weird things to a person. A drunk individual’s senses take a hit; they feel dizzy and eventually lose control of their vehicle. Falling off a speeding motorcycle is often disastrous. The accident can be fatal if the rider strays off the road and crashes into something.
2. Check Your Motorcycle Periodically
Like other vehicles, motorcycles need regular maintenance. You may think that you’re saving a lot of money by not having your motorcycle checked at regular intervals. But the consequences catch up, eventually. Imagine doing 90 on the free-way, only for a worn-out bearing to make the vehicle unstable.
The end result is not pretty. Those who own motorcycles should run periodic maintenance checks. A maintenance routine performed by a specialist will keep your motorcycle running in top condition for many years to come.
3. Avoid Staying in Blindspots
Some vehicles, especially larger ones like trucks and buses, have blindspots around them. These are the areas that are outside the driver’s field of view. The driver of the larger vehicle will easily miss any vehicle in this blindspot. It’s easy for motorcyclists to get stuck in a vehicle’s blindspot, especially when they’re attempting to pass them. It is the motorcyclist’s responsibility to stay out of a vehicle’s blindspot. This can considerably reduce the chances of accidents.
4. Obey Road Laws
A rider who follows traffic laws is a safe rider. Traffic laws are put in place for a reason. Those who follow them can get from point A to point B safely. Those who don’t will have to deal with various consequences. In addition to being involved in accidents, lawbreakers also have to deal with the US justice system. The law goes hard on traffic violations, starting from tickets and fines to license suspension. Motorcyclists should follow all road laws, not just because others follow them, but because they’re essential to keeping themself and others safe.
5. Ride Defensively
It’s easy to get carried away, given the power a motorcycle rider wields. A boost in speed to pass a vehicle often gives a rush of adrenaline to some. This rush may tempt them to make risky manoeuvres again and again. Aggressive driving increases the chances of accidents.
It is important for motorcyclists to ride defensively, regardless of the situation. They should be aware of their surroundings, keeping an eye out for any hazards that might pop up. They must also be extra careful when passing other vehicles, especially bigger vehicles like trucks. (Image source: Pexels and Freepik)
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ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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