Motorcycle Safety Tips

Now that the summer is almost here, there are more motorcycles on the roads. Whether you’re an avid rider or an occasional weekend hobbyist, motorcycle safety is something to take seriously.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, there were 8.4 million motorcycles on the road in 2013. That year alone, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured and nearly 5,000 died in crashes.

With these sobering statistics in mind, it’s best to be prepared before you hit the road on your bike. Here are some useful motorcycle safety tips to get you started safely.

Tips for Routine Maintenance

You probably give your house a “spring cleaning” at least once a year. You should do the same for your bike. When you first bring your motorcycle out for the season, consider the following steps to get your ride road-ready:

Change Fluids

Change all fluids, including your bike’s oil, brake fluid, and fuel. This is also a good time to replace your filters.

Test the Battery

Examine your bike’s battery to make sure it’s in good condition. In most cases, you will need to charge the battery if your bike has been sitting in storage throughout the winter.

Other Maintenance

Give your bike a thorough once-over to determine whether it’s safe to drive. Check the valves, chain condition, lights, alignment, and tire pressure.

Motorcycle Safety Tips Include Staying Safe Behind the Wheel

Once you’re ready to ride, take the following precautions to stay safe on the road:

Wear the Right Safety Gear

Safety gear is critically important – it’s also the law. In Massachusetts, all motorcyclists are required to wear helmets regardless of the rider’s age. In a crash, a helmet can save your life. Other gear, such as gloves, sturdy shoes, and full-length protective clothing, can also prevent or minimize injuries in an accident.

Practice Defensive Driving

Even the most skilled motorcyclist can be caught off guard by another motorist, an animal, or debris in the road. Give yourself plenty of space between your bike and other drivers. Also make sure that other motorists can see you. Whenever possible, make eye contact with the drivers of surrounding vehicles to ensure they know you’re nearby.

Know Your Limits

As with anything, riding a motorcycle proficiently takes practice and patience. A busy highway is not the place to test the limits of your skill.

Obey Traffic Laws

A motorcycle’s smaller size makes it easier to maneuver in and out of traffic, but riders should never use this as an excuse to break the law. Traffic laws are designed to keep motorists safe. By following them, you will keep yourself and your fellow drivers safer on the road.

Boston and Brockton Personal Injury Lawyers

The personal injury attorneys at Joel H. Schwartz, P.C. offer experienced, compassionate legal counsel to individuals and families throughout Massachusetts. Call us today at (617) 742-1170 to speak to a personal injury attorney about your case.

This website has been prepared by Joel H. Schwartz, P.C. for informational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The information is not provided in the course of an attorney-client relationship and is not intended to substitute for legal advice from an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.