Did you know that 45% of all motorcycle accidents result in more than a minor injury? Also, motorcyclists are 29% more likely to suffer a fatal injury than in a car? This data is based on research carried out by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Plus, if you don’t wear a helmet, you’re almost 70% more likely to suffer a head injury while riding a motorcycle and 50% more likely to die.
If you don’t want to become one of these statistics in Milwaukee, WI, check out our seven crucial motorcycle safety tips below.
1. Wear Your Helmet (and More)
As mentioned, helmets are vital to your safety when riding a motorcycle. Don’t try to be like “The Fonz” or James Dean when you’re riding.
Gear up. Along with your helmet, wear a jacket that will protect you, preferably of the thicker leather variety. You should at least wear a good pair of jeans that aren’t too thin as well.
You can go even further and purchase a special protective jacket along with gloves. It will save you money in the long run.
2. Inspect Your Bike
Staying safe on a motorcycle is more than having protective equipment. You should inspect your bike regularly, especially if you’re going on long rides. Things to focus on are your suspension, brake pads, and tires.
3. Know Your Limits
Knowing your limits on the road is extremely important. Whether you’re a beginner or not, understanding what you can and can’t do on a bike can save your life.
4. Check the Weather
You should regularly check the forecast in and around Milwaukee, WI on the days you’re riding. You should also check the forecast the night before whether you’re taking a road trip or heading to work in the morning. Especially in Wisconsin when mother nature is quick to change the weather, staying informed will keep you safe.
5. Keep Your Head up and on a Swivel
That’s usually a term used for fast, high-impact sports, but it also rings true for motorcyclists. Keep your composure while riding, use your mirrors, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Be mindful when turning corners of what lies ahead, and when switching lanes, don’t forget to take a peek over your shoulder just in case.
6. Protect Your Passenger
If you’re going to bring someone to ride with you on the back of your bike, make sure to protect them with the proper equipment. And please, don’t let them ride on your bike with flip-flops.
Make sure they have a jacket or at least a thick sweater, some jeans or protective pants, and shoes.
Also, explain to them what to do when stopping or turning. And if they’ve never ridden on the back of a bike before, do a test run. Find a parking lot with a lot of room and practice before you hit the road.
7. Be Respectful
We’ve all seen the people on bikes weaving in and out of traffic, cutting cars off and putting their lives in danger. Don’t do that.
You want cars to give you respect on the road; give the same back to them. Everyone will be better off for it.
Use These Motorcycle Safety Tips
Now you know what to do to help prevent problems while riding your motorcycle. These motorcycle safety tips will help keep you and your passenger safe.
Now go out and have some fun while you’re at it. And if you do encounter any problems on the road, contact us for help.