Motorcycles are fun, exciting and rooted in a tradition of freedom. They get you out on the open road and they bring back some of that childhood thrill you felt when you first learned to ride a bike. While they’re not always a practical choice, you don’t buy them for that. You buy them because you love them. It’s that experience that is so important to you.
Unfortunately, that experience can also be dangerous and even deadly. You must know how to stay safe. Other drivers make mistakes, and they can seriously injure you in a split second. Here are a few safety tips that can help:
- Pay extra attention at intersections. Some studies have found that up to 70 percent of injury-related crashes happen there.
- Wear bright and/or reflective clothes. Make yourself as visible as you can on the road.
- Only ride with other people that you trust. Many motorcycle riders enjoy the community of riding in a group, but you’re only as safe as the worst rider.
- Never drive your bike aggressively or recklessly. Don’t break the speed limit, tailgate a car or try to hurry and cut someone off. A careful, thoughtful approach lets you react to their mistakes.
- Remember your safety gear. While things like a helmet will not prevent all injuries in an accident, they absolutely can help.
Naturally, these tips do not mean you will never get involved in a crash caused by another driver. When this happens, if you have serious injuries and high medical bills, you need to know how to seek financial compensation for your costs.
