Stay Safe on the Road: Motorcycle Safety Tips

The fatality statistics for accidents involving motorcycles are grim. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5014 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents in 2019. 

As a motorcyclist, you know how important it is for drivers of other vehicles to share the road. But there are also a number of motorcycle safety practices you can employ to help you keep safe while on the road. 

Georgia Requires a Motorcycle License 

In Georgia, a Class M license or a Class M Instructional Permit is necessary for operating a motorcycle in the state. Be sure you’re properly licensed before you hit the road. 

Pre-Ride Checks and Practices

If you’re not familiar with the motorcycle you’re riding, putting in some practice time is always a good idea to make sure you’re up to speed with how your ride handles. And you should always check your motorcycle’s tires, brakes, headlights, and signal indicators before you ride. Don’t forget to take a look at your fluid levels as well, and do a check for any oil or gas leaks. 

Use the Right Helmet

Brain injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident can be fatal, but even in the best of cases riding without a proper helmet can put you at risk of a traumatic brain injury. The following are guidelines for making sure you’re using a proper helmet: 

• DOT helmet. Your motorcycle helmet needs to meet the criteria set by the Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. A proper helmet will feature a DOT symbol on the outside back of the helmet. 
• Proper fit. You also want to have a helmet that fits your head properly. In order to be the right fit for you, your helmet needs to fit both the shape of your head (round oval, intermediate oval, or long oval) and the size of your head (it should not be a loose fit).

Motorcycle Road Rash

Prevention is the best policy when it comes to motorcycle road rash. Motorcycle road rash occurs as a result of your body’s contact with the surface of the road as a result of a collision or other type of accident. You can help reduce the severity of road rash by wearing protective gear such as boots and gloves, and leather or denim long-sleeved jackets and pants. 

Be Highly Visible to Others

Accidents involving motorcycles and other kinds of vehicles on the road often happen when the driver of the other vehicle doesn’t see the motorcycle. Wearing clothes that are brightly colored or which have reflective patches will help you stand out more and be more visible while on the road. 

Know the Rules of the Road

Responsible and defensive riding is the best approach for motorcyclists. Be sure you know and follow all local traffic rules, such as obeying traffic signals and signs, leaving room between your motorcycle and other vehicles on the road, and properly signaling lane changes. 

Involved in a Motorcycle Accident? A Tifton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a motorcycle accident, Hudson Injury Firm can assist you. Contact our Tifton motorcycle accident lawyer today for immediate assistance.