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For motorcycle riders new and old, safety should always come first. Unlike driving an automobile, being exposed to the elements also increases the risk of being hurt, especially if you aren’t prepared for it. In this blog, we’re going to look at just a few ways to make motorcycle riding safer while still maintaining its enjoyability.
Take A Lesson Or Two
When we’re 15 years old, we’re so excited to get our driver’s license, but we quickly learn that it’s not as simple as applying for one — we have to take driver’s ed first. If you’ve decided to start riding a motorcycle, signing up for a beginner’s motorcycle course will show you the basics of how to operate a motorcycle They will let you practice and develop your skills off the road so you can learn without endangering yourself or others. While many feel like this is enough, there’s no such thing as having too much practice. Taking additional classes to help you become more comfortable on your motorcycle can only help, and being more prepared off the road will make for a safer and overall better riding experience on the road.
Wear A Helmet
This is easily the most important precautionary measure for motorcycle riders. Surprisingly, it’s the most ignored one as well. A helmet is your most valuable asset because it protects your brain. Studies show that motorcycle riders who ride without helmets are at higher risk of suffering fatal head and brain injuries than those who ride while wearing helmets. A small handful of states that have repealed helmet laws for motorcycle riders have noted a higher amount of motorcycle-related accidents and fatalities.
One of the main criticisms of helmets by motorcycle riders is that they’re too heavy and uncomfortable. While this may be true of helmets in the past, modern-day helmets are manufactured with the needs of riders in mind. Modern helmets are lightweight and comfortable and, in some cases, are made from materials like carbon fiber, providing the rider with both comfort and protection. Wearing a helmet will protect you from head injuries and at the end of the day, the harsh reality is that you can wear a helmet and ride for years to come, or not wear one and risk never being able to ride again.
Make Sure Your Bike Is In Proper Working Order
You wouldn’t feel comfortable driving a car if the check engine light was on, right? Similarly, before riding your bike, look it over to make sure that everything is in proper working order. Check that your tires have enough air in them and that the treads still look good and not worn. Check the chain and the brakes to make sure that they aren’t worn and are fully functional. Also, be sure to check your turn signals and lights, as being visible is incredibly important. One of the biggest reasons why motorcycle accidents happen is because other motorists claim that they didn’t see the rider.
Avoid Riding In Poor Weather
Motorcycles are a great means of transportation, but unlike cars, they aren’t ideal in certain climates and conditions. In places that get a lot of snow, motorcyclists can only ride for a few months out of the year. Here in Los Angeles, we are fortunate enough to have warm weather year-round, but that doesn’t mean we’re safe to ride all the time. Rainy streets can be dangerous to ride a motorcycle on, as the slickness reduces the ability of your tires to grip the road. In addition to that, it also reduces your visibility. In the instance that you must ride in the rain, ride defensively and take it easy on your brakes.
Dress For The Ride
There are many factors to riding a motorcycle that differ from operating other sorts of vehicles, and attire is certainly one of them. Driving an automobile requires virtually nothing special in relation to clothing, but much like how helmets protect our heads from accidents and the elements, we have to protect our entire bodies for the same reason. While it’s common to see motorcycle riders in jeans and t-shirts, this is far from appropriate motorcycle riding attire. They’re called motorcycle jackets for a reason, and investing in one will protect you from debris, bugs, and the pavement in case you fall. Sunglasses, heavy-duty footwear, and long pants will also protect you from the elements and possible falls.
So there you go,just a few ways that you can be safer while operating a motorcycle. At Los Angeles City Law, the safety of our clients is of the utmost importance, and we encourage responsible riding at all times. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and protecting yourself from the dangers of riding will prove to make the experience more enjoyable overall. With that in mind, we are also aware that accidents happen, and in times like that, we are here to help you. If you or anyone you know is in need of a motorcycle accident attorney, Los Angeles City Law is here at your service. For more information, get in touch with us today.
