Any motorcyclist who is going to ride needs to make sure that he or she runs through some basic refresher information about motorcycle safety. Even bikers who have been riding for years might benefit from these reminders, just in case they encounter a reckless driver on the road.
Safety gear is critical
You need proper safety gear on your ride. A motorcycle is the most important piece of safety gear that you will put on your body. This can prevent head injuries in many cases. When a head injury does occur, there is a good chance that the helmet will reduce the severity.
Before you head out, you need to make sure that you are wearing appropriate shoes and clothes. People tend to think that jeans, leather jackets, accessories and boots are just “cool looking” biker gear. This isn’t the case. These clothing items are safety gear that can protect a motorcyclist if knocked off the bike.
Motorcycle preparation is important
You have to make sure that your motorcycle is in good shape. Check the tires and brake system for all rides. Without tires that are in good shape, your motorcycle can’t grip the road properly. You need your bike to have good brakes so you can stop. You should also check the lights and all other systems on the motorcycle to ensure they are ready for the open road.
Remember the rules of the road
Don’t forget to brush up on the rules of the road. Knowing who should have the right of way and what to do in all situations can help you to remain safe. This isn’t going to protect you from other drivers who aren’t following the rules of the road, but it can ensure that you aren’t doing something that is going to lead to an accident.
Have a plan when things go wrong
You need to have a plan for what you will do if something goes wrong while you ride. Whether this is your motorcycle breaking down or you being struck by another driver, you need to have a plan for what you will do. You should always make sure that you have your identification and insurance information handy in case you do need emergency medical care.
