This summer, many Texans are experiencing riding a motorcycle for the
first time, while others are returning to motorcycling after a long layoff. As fun as motorcycles are to ride, they can be dangerous if safety procedures aren’t followed. Here are five motorcycle safety tips for novices and those rediscovering motorcycling to remember:
Antilock brakes are a great investment. Antilock brakes are a proven lifesaver. Studies show motorcycles equipped with ABS brakes are 37 percent less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without it.
Hone your skills with a course. A motorcycle safety course or similar class can teach you the basics as well as more advanced techniques. Furthermore, an approved safety course may make you eligible for an insurance discount.
Wear a helmet. Motorcyclists without a helmet are much more likely to suffer a fatal head injury in a crash and are three times more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury than those wearing a helmet, according to government studies. In fact, after Texas repealed its helmet laws, the state saw a 31 percent increase in motorcycle fatalities.
Wear the right attire. Not only will gear protect you from wind chill and flying insects, but it is necessary to protect your from road rash if you should slide out. For optimal protection, go for a leather jacket, gloves, full pants, and over-the-ankle footwear, even in summer.
Be defensive. A recent study found that in wrecks involving a motorcycle and a car, car drivers were at fault 60 percent of the time. You need to be alert, particularly in this age of texting and driving. Keep an eye out for cars changing lanes and pulling out from frontage roads. Don’t tailgate, as keeping a safe following distance is vital to ensuring you have enough time to be able to safely stop if there is an unexpected object in the road.
The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Motorcycle Accident Attorney
