Ride safely with these motorcycle tips.
Motorcyclists know that riding gives them a freedom that driving a car can’t match. But the best riders also know that motorcycles require more focus to operate and don’t provide the same protection that cars do in the event of a crash. So the best riders are also very careful in all situations, whether they’re in heavy traffic on Route 99, stuck in the rain, or just taking a quick ride on a perfect day.
If your habits aren’t as safe as they could be, or you’re new to motorcycling, don’t worry! Instead, take time to improve. The quick safety tips below are a good place to start.
Want more? Check out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (http://www.msf-usa.org) or the American Motorcyclist Association (www.americanmotorcyclist.com). And remember to call us at Point Insurance at 833.280.6080 when you need coverage for your bike (or your home or your car, boat or more)!
First come
- Wear appropriate safety equipment and, most importantly, a helmet – no matter how short the trip may be.
- Make sure other drivers can see you. Make it easier for them by wearing reflective clothing, always using your blinkers (and maybe hand signals) and keeping your headlights on.
- Even when taking the above precautions, be alert and assume that other drivers cannot see you ̵1; especially at intersections and when making lane changes or passing.
- Have patience. Do not use the tailgate; if someone closes you, get out of the way.
- Do not ride after drinking or taking any medications that may impair your abilities.
Riding at night
- Again, make sure you are visible – especially at dusk. Consider upgrading your headlight or adding other lights to your ride. Is your bike black? How about your clothes? Both make it harder to see at night.
- Your vision must be clear, so keep your visor or goggles clean and free of scratches. If you don’t use face or eye protection, consider it.
- Carry a flashlight or other emergency equipment with you so a mechanical problem doesn’t leave you stranded—and invisible—on the side of a dark road.
Bad weather?
- Keep rain and cold weather gear on hand. Riding isn’t just more fun when you’re warm and dry – it’s also safer.
- Be extremely careful when it first starts to rain, as the roads are most slippery. Pull over and wait if necessary. It is better to be late than to ride in unsafe conditions.
We wish all your rides could be on sunny days with wide open roads, but we know that won’t happen. So think about safety every time you start your bike!
