Motorcycle 101
Every time you strap on your helmet safety needs to be your #1 priority. When you don't think safety first, statistics prove that riding your motorcycle becomes a much more dangerous activity. Each year motorcycle riding claims more than 3,000 riders, and riders are 26 times more likely die when involved in a collision. Would it surprise you to know that 80% of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death?
What are the most common reasons for collision?:
Lack of basic riding skills
Many riders simply aren't educated in the basic riding skills (e.g. breaking and cornering). A large percent of riders who lose their lives are not properly authorized or licensed to operate a motorcycle. If you are not licensed or have not been through an authorized safety course, enroll today and get licensed. If you know someone who rides, but they have not been licensed or certified, encourage them, you might be saving a life.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Just like with your automobile, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of death on our roadways. Think twice before your ride your motorcycle if you have had anything to drink. It's the law.
The rider didn't exercise caution
When you're riding your motorcycle you need to exhibit more caution that when you drive your car. You are simply harder to see on the roadway, and many drivers are not thinking about motorcycles when they are on the road. You need to pay particularly better attention when you approach intersections, and when you approach the blind areas of other motor vehicles. Riders also need to be extra cautious during hard weather, on slippery surfaces, when approaching obstacles, and in the evenings. You need to look out after #1, you!
Failure to drive defensively
Drivers of automobiles have a difficult time seeing motorcycles, it is important for riders to anticipate potential problems, be aware of vehicle blind spots, and approach intersection with extra caution; this is where the majority of collisions occur.
Speeding
Speeding is the leading cause of auto insurance claims for drivers under 30-years old. Excess speeding is dangerous to both the rider and to those you share the road with. Reduce your speed and you'll enjoy your motorcycle a much longer time.
A few tips for new and old rider alike:
Educate yourself and continue to practice what you learn
Take an authorized training course and learn the proper skills to operate your motorcycle. You will get excellent safety advice and learn ways to drive your motorcycle more defensively. If you're experienced, review your skills and don't get lazy.
Practice good scanning skills, know your environment
Always be aware of your surroundings. You have been taught to drive defensively, so practice these skills every time you ride. Remember, you don't have the protection of your automobile, so do a better job of scanning the roadway for potential hazards and anticipate what will happen.
Never drink and drive
Take this seriously and as a good friend discourage your friends from riding after drinking.
Wear the proper protective gear
As obvious as it may seem that you should wear your helmet, nearly half of all death were the result of a failure to wear a helmet. Don't make this mistake, wear your helmet and make sure it is DOT certified. Don't neglect to wear the proper eye protection, gloves, long pants and footwear; you'll be happy you did.
