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In 2018, there were 4,985 motorcycle fatalities. Sadly, instead of the number going down, it rises by year. There is a lot at stake while riding a motorcycle; with winds blowing, hair in the face, and dust, it could be dangerous, and cyclists are just expected always to be extra careful.
Sometimes it is not even about the wind and hair in the face. It is about the fact that if an accident happens, the motorcyclist stands to experience fatal injuries (if not death), then the vehicle. If you are a rider or aspire to be one, then this article is for you.
Here are some tips to staying safe on the road;
Be Knowledgeable
There is a lot involved in riding a motorcycle. It requires more skills than even driving a vehicle. That is why there is a different driving license for a motorcycle. Different states have different laws and regulations regarding motorcycle licenses.
Additional training and classes also go a long way in increasing your capabilities as a motorcycle rider. One of the biggest leading causes of motorcycle fatalities is that most riders are not well educated and don’t have some of the most critical skills on the road. Just because you know how to turn on the engine doesn’t mean that you are fit to ride on the highway. It means you are not qualified enough, and you need to seek and acquire sufficient knowledge.
Be Experienced
Before you claim yourself a pro or qualified to ride on the main highway, make sure you have first-hand experience on how to handle the motorcycle and take control of the ride. This is brought about by experience. In simple terms, keep practising your skills.
A lot of people always think that it is just about the training. While that is an essential and mandatory part of the whole riding process, it is not the only important thing. You have to make sure that you know what the motorcycle regulations are in your state and the ins and outs of your motorcycle. And this, you can only acquire through practice. Start in your neighbourhood and remote roads first before you move into the highways.
Wear Protection
This is one of the most important parts of riding a motorcycle. And it is also one of the many reasons why many riders don’t survive an accident. Before you even start learning how to ride, make sure you first know what protective gear you need and that you have them.
This includes a motorcycle jacket, padding to protect your shoulders, elbows, knees, and joints, boots, helmets, gloves, and everything else needed. Accidents don’t knock at your door or come with a warning prior. It takes just a pothole or even a puddle to cause one. Always be prepared and well protected.
Be Responsible
This sums everything else up; always be responsible while riding your motorcycle. This means making sure you are wearing all the required protective gear all the time, riding on the correct lane while on the road, being attentive, following the basic rules, leaving enough space between you and other vehicles on the road, and every other seemingly tiny detail. Remember that you could be doing everything right, but it doesn’t mean everyone else is.
