Safety Tips for New Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle operators should make certain they understand what equipment their motorcycle should have, what the rules of the road are, and how to properly handle a motorcycle while driving. Unlike car and truck crashes, when a motorcycle wreck happens, there is no protection for the rider. Riders usually fall directly to the ground, causing death or substantial injuries. Many rider fatalities are due to accidents in which only the motorcycle is involved.
Suggested safety tips
Many organizations offer safety tips for motorcyclists, which vary depending on the age and experience level of the rider, the type of road involved, the elements, and other factors. Consumer Reports suggests that motorcycle operators consider the following:
- Buy the right motorcycle for your skills and needs. Drivers should fit onto the bike comfortably. When you sit on the motorcycle, both feet should be flat on the ground. You should be able to easily reach the controls and the handlebars. Models should have engine capacities that the rider can manage. Engines should match the type of road the operator is on. Highway driving is much different than riding on rural roads.
- Consider antilock brakes. Most newer motorcycles have antilock brakes which, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, significantly decreases the risk of a fatality. Without antilock brakes, the likelihood of skidding and crashing increases. The antilock brake makes it easier for the operator to have control of the motorcycle in an emergency.
- Improve your skills. There are numerous motorcycle safety courses, many offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, throughout Chicago and Illinois. Courses are offered depending on your skill level. The courses address starting, stopping, turning, and driving issues as well as evasive emergency techniques, braking, and other priorities. Passing an approved course can make getting a license easier. Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who pass an approved course.
- Wear a helmet. Even though riders in Illinois are not required to wear a helmet, it is strongly advisable to wear one. According to the Consumer Reports article, riders who fail to wear a helmet are much more likely to die or suffer brain injuries that riders who use a helmet. Wear helmets that are recommended by leading safety organizations and replace your helmet regularly to avoid excessive wear.
- Have the right clothing. Riders need to protect themselves against the wind, bugs, cold, rain, and falls. Eye protection, protective clothing, and bright colors are just some of the key considerations.
- Don’t drive in bad weather. Stay off the road when it’s raining, icy, snowing, and windy.
Other safety concerns include driving defensively and being on the alert for potholes, road debris, and changing road conditions. Operators should also inspect their motorcycle before each road trip to make sure all the parts are working properly.
The best way to prevent an injury is to avoid a motorcycle crash in the first place. If you are injured, or a loved one dies in a motorcycle crash, get help by speaking with a skilled Chicago motorcycle accident attorney. At Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers, we have the experience victims and families need. Please phone 312-600-9585 or compete our contact form to speak with a tough legal advocate.
Attorney Neal Gainsberg has spent the last 20+ years fighting to protect the rights of the injured in Chicago and throughout Illinois. For dedicated legal help with a personal injury, car accident, or wrongful death matter, contact Gainsberg Injury and Accident Lawyers in Chicago for a free consultation.