Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Motorcycles are fun to ride, and they are extremely efficient on fuel, but they can also be very dangerous if you are not following all of the safety rules recommended by national insurance companies, state departments of highway safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). Motorcyclists stand a chance in court with the help of a personal injury lawyer but not so much against the pavement, which is why the following safety tips are so vital.
- Complete a motorcycle safety course.
Nearly every state requires motorcyclists to pass a skills test before receiving a license, and may also require the successful completion of a safety class. If you live in a state that does not require a safety course, you should enroll in one anyway. You will learn all of the traffic laws pertinent to motorcycles in your state, and you will be taught how to handle emergency situations as they arise. If you become injured, your safety certification may help a personal injury lawyer prove your case.
- Always wear a helmet.
A strong helmet made specifically for motorcyclists is the best way to protect yourself from a head injury, which is the leading cause of fatalities among motorcycle riders. The helmet should only be purchased brand new, and it must be approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure it meets the minimum safety specifications. In addition, your helmet should fit properly and not obstruct your vision.
- Don’t forget protective clothing.
As a motorcyclist, you have to recognize that your body has no protection other than what you are wearing. Therefore, you must always wear protective clothing, which includes long pants, a jacket, gloves and boots. The best material to reduce the risk of injury from accidents is leather, but some companies offer armored motorcycle gear made from other strong, lightweight materials that work just as well or better. You will also want to protect your feet by wearing sturdy shoes or boots with adequate ankle support. Never wear flip-flops, sandals or any other type of open-toed shoes.
- Perform a pre-ride safety check.
Always perform a safety check before setting off on any ride. The safety check should include the following points at a minimum:
- Tire pressure
- Oil, gas or other fluid leaks
- Fluid levels
- Headlights, taillights and turn signals
Once the above checks are made, mount the motorcycle and perform these additional safety checks:
- Adjust mirrors
- Check clutch and throttle
- Test brakes
- Honk horn
The motorcycle accident attorneys at John Price Law Firm, LLC can inform you of legal options you may not know you have. If you or a loved one has experienced an injury or wrongful death due to someone else’s negligence, contact John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 552-6011.