Defensive Riding Can Keep Motorcycle Riders Safer

Riding a motorcycle can be a truly enjoyable experience. You can forget your problems, feel the air hitting your face, and explore the open roads. However, you cannot ignore the fact that motorcycling can also be very dangerous.

Motorcyclists do not have the same protections that automobile drivers have, such as airbags, seat belts, and a protective windshield. However, operating your bike defensively and being  prepared can help minimize your risks of being injured in a motorcycle accident. Here are nine ways you can ride your motorcycle defensively in Oklahoma City:

1.         Wear the appropriate motorcycle gear and protection

As a motorcycle rider, you should have the appropriate motorcycle gear and protection. Some of the most important items to own include a DOT-approved helmet, leather jacket, boots, gloves. You should also wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants for optimal protection. You should also ensure that your motorcycle gear is padded, durable, and up to date.

2.        Ride the bike that works best for you and your body type

Although you might like a certain motorcycle style or model, you should ensure it suits you and your body type. You should see a bike in person, sit on it, pretend that you are going to ride it, test drive it, and see how it feels before you buy it. If your feet cannot touch the ground, your arms don’t touch the handlebars, or you simply feel uncomfortable, look at a different bike. You never want to choose a motorcycle that does not fit you and, as a result, sustain life-threatening injuries in a potentially deadly accident.

3.         Practice and get comfortable on both country and city roads

It is crucial that when you purchase a motorcycle, you are comfortable riding it on both country and city roads. Primarily driving on country roads and then deciding to drive through the city with no practice can lead to a motorcycle accident resulting in catastrophic injuries.

4.        Take motorcycle safety courses

No matter how long you have been riding motorcycles, you should enroll in motorcycle safety courses that keep you up to date and informed about new motorcycle laws as well as new ways to stay safe and harm free. It is highly recommended that you periodically set aside a few hours to stay educated about motorcycle safety.

5.        Remain alert and pay attention at all times

When riding your motorcycle, always remain alert and pay attention.by refraining from using your cell phone, checking your GPS device, or changing the radio station. Remember, a hazardous situation like a fallen tree, debris on the roadway, a road closure, roadwork, or potholes could emerge at any moment.

No matter how experienced you are, sudden situations can arise at any time, putting motorcycle riders, automobile drivers, and pedestrians at risk.

6.        Ensure that you are visible to other drivers

If you ride your motorcycle at night or in foggy conditions, ensure that you are visible to other drivers. Motorcycles are already extremely hard for other drivers to see; therefore, you should wear reflective clothing and position yourself where other drivers can see you.

7.        Always check out your bike before going for a ride

Before you go for a ride, you should check every part of your motorcycle, including your handlebars, brakes, seat, tires, and more. If there is anything broken or defective, you should get it repaired as soon as possible. Even “small” issues, such as low tire pressure, can lead to balance problems and a serious motorcycle crash.

8.        Plan your trip

It is essential that you take the time to plan your motorcycle trip by looking at a map, checking the weather forecast for the area and time you will be riding, and be aware of road construction so you will know what to expect. Regardless of how long your ride will be, you should familiarize yourself with the weather and road conditions. If high winds, rain, or snow are expected, be prepared to change your riding habits, and know what type of clothing to wear.

9.        Obey all traffic laws

Motorcycle riders must obey all traffic laws. While you are riding on two wheels instead of four, you still have to follow the rules of the road just as automobiles do.

If you were recently injured in a motorcycle crash in Oklahoma City, reach out to the motorcycle accident lawyers at Cunningham & Mears. We know that people like to automatically blame motorcycle riders for accidents, but our team will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a no-cost case evaluation with one of our attorneys today.