Protecting Yourself on the Road

Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience-feeling the horsepower of the bike beneath you, the wind blowing around you-there is nothing else quite like it. It is just you and the open highway. The thrill does not come without danger, however, as motorcycle accidents are actually far more catastrophic than car crashes. The likelihood of suffering a traumatic head injury or perishing in motorcycle accidents is increased because the biker has nothing to absorb the force of the crash but his or her body. In an instant the thrill of just you and the open highway becomes the horror of just you and the pavement. Motorcycle accidents can be singularly catasrophic.

There are ways of protecting yourself. Smart bikers wear helmets and other protective gear to decrease the severity of injuries in the event of motorcycle accidents. They also observe good motorcycle maintenance and learn the hazards particular to motorcyclists. These steps do not eliminate the possibility of motorcycle accidents occurring, of course, but knowledge can be a help in preventing many wrecks.

Motorcycle maintenance can cut down on your chances of suffering motorcycle accidents. While it is important to take care of a car or truck, it is even more important to keep a motorcycle in excellent running order. As motorcycles are always less stable than four wheeled vehicles, their tires should have special attention. Make sure they are always in straight alignment, and be vigilant of tire damage or wear. Brakes should be checked frequently, as should any lights on your bike.

On the highway, motorcyclists should look for road conditions which would not hinder a car but which would launch a bike spinning all over the place. Potholes, loose pebbles, speed bumps, and salt or sand used for melting ice can result in deadly motorcycle accidents. Debris like shreds of tires or trash from the bed of a truck can also be hazardous. Oil and other spilled liquids can be a real skating rink for a motorcycle, too.

Finally, weather can be problematic. Aside from being unpleasant to ride in, fog, snow, downpours, and ice can be far more deadly to motorcyclists than drivers. For one thing, bad weather make it difficult for drivers to see you. They also reduce your ability to see other vehicles and any existing road hazards. The number of deadly motorcycle accidents increases in foul weather.

By all means, indulge your love of the open road, but before you hit the road, arm yourself with the know how to avoid motorcycle accidents.