While most motorcycle riders understand the inherent danger of this activity,
there are still many ways to stay safer while on the road. Through safe
motorcycling habits, you can not only reduce your chances of getting in an
accident, but also reduce your chances of being seriously injured if an accident
Ride the Right Bike for You
The truth is, most people do not need a liter bike. Especially for beginners
and city-dwellers, these bikes bring unnecessary danger to the rider and
other motorists. These bikes are heavier, much harder to control in traffic,
and way easier to lose control of; unless you’re taking it out to
the track or seriously speeding, you won’t need much faster than
a 600cc bike. Additionally, it’s important that the bike actually
fits you physically. You should be able to reach the ground with your
feet and easily mount/dismount.
A minor accident or fender bender for a car can be a serious accident for
a motorcycle rider. Aggressive driving tactics like tailgating or weaving
through traffic can dramatically reduce your ability to react to dangerous
road conditions up ahead. Many drivers are distracted behind the wheel,
making it even more important to stay alert. By riding defensively, and
staying mindful of your surroundings, you can limit the danger from other
Any experienced motorcycle rider should be familiar with this term—it
stands for “all the gear, all the time” and is a critical
component of motorcycle safety.
Motorcycle accidents can still happen to even the most defensive rider, but proper gear can
help you walk away in one piece. It’s important to gear up even
for short rides.
The most important protective gear to wear includes:
- Reinforced jacket
- Back protector
- Eye protection
- Reinforced pants
- Over-the-ankle riding boots
Maintain Your Motorcycle
While you can’t eliminate the dangers of the road, you can take powerful
steps to mitigate them. Before getting on your bike, make sure you check
your safety equipment including lights, horn, and turn signals, as well
as critical components like the brakes, chain, and tire pressure. Underinflated
tires can radically affect the handling of a bike, making steering and
leaning more difficult.
Avoid Riding in Rainy, Snowy, or Windy Conditions
While bad weather is unavoidable for many riders, those who have the option
to avoid bad conditions should do so. The time immediately following the
start of rain is particularly dangerous, as the water can bring oil to
the surface of the pavement and make the road very slippery. In bad weather
conditions, you must be careful to gently apply the brakes and throttle,
as sudden changes in speed or direction can cause you to slide dangerously.
Injured in a motorcycle accident? Call the Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb,
P.A. at (561) 600-5605 for a no-cost consultation.