6 Motorcycle Riding Safety Tips for Summer

How much more dangerous is it to ride a motorcycle than to drive a car? While both vehicles see their fair share of accidents, motorcyclists are 30 times more likely to die in a crash. Older riders are also three times more likely to be hospitalized after an accident than young riders.
So, with more motorcyclists taking their bikes out to enjoy the summer weather, what can you do to stay safe on the roads?

1. Wear a Helmet and Protective Eyewear

Without a helmet, a rider’s chance of sustaining a head injury from a crash increases five times and the possibility of a brain injury triples. There is also a 40-percent fatality risk. As such, to be fully protected on the road, wear a compliant helmet with appropriate eyewear and a face shield.

2. Dress for the Road

Although you might be tempted to jet out in shorts and a T-shirt, understand that neither of these garments protects you when you fall off your bike and slide across the ground. To minimize skids and road rash, wear leather or abrasion-resistant apparel from the neck down. Also, if you plan to drive at night, make sure your clothing makes you visible. Ideally, something bright and reflective allows other motorists to see you better.

3. Be Alert

Because motorcycles are harder to balance and have no enclosure, you always need to be aware of potential hazards around you. So, to stay safe:

• Obey all rules of the road. Being on a bike does not mean you can illegally lane-split, cut off cars or go above the speed limit.
• Pay attention and heed to all traffic signals and signs.
• Always be watchful of sand, wet leaves, gravel, uneven surfaces, bumps and potholes. For riders, going over any of these can cause your bike to slide, wobble or tip over. Additionally, slowing down before you go around or through these patches gives you more control.
• Never, ever go out on your bike when you’re drunk, mentally tired, physically fatigued or taking medication that causes drowsiness.

4. Maintain Your Bike

Forgetting about or delaying maintenance might leave your bike broken down on the side of the road or cause a malfunction that leads to a collision. To be ready to ride safely, check for the following:

• Tires with cracks, bulges, worn-down treads or low pressure.
• Gas and oil leaks.
• Lights that need to be replaced.
• Adequate hydraulic and coolant levels.
• A smoothly operating clutch and throttle.
• Clean and properly adjusted mirrors.
• Working front and rear brakes.
• A horn that can be heard.

5. Invest in Antilock Brakes

Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicates that bikes with antilock brakes have a 37-percent lower chance of being involved in a fatal crash. With them, your bike tends to have better steering control, preventing skidding and sliding and moves better in slippery conditions.

6. Don’t Go Out in Bad Weather

Although some riders profess their skills for traveling in the rain, there are several reasons why taking a motorcycle through such conditions can be unsafe, including:

• Reduced visibility.
• Less grip and increased hydroplaning.
• Oil residue making the roads slicker.
• High winds and sharp gusts.

Should an accident happen, be ready with adequate motorcycle insurance coverage. To talk about your policy, give Ion Insurance a call today at 203.439.2815.