The feeling of pushing the speed limits, the wind whipping at your face. The freedom to hop on a motorcycle and go — nothing holding you back, just you, your vehicle and the road. The biker doesn’t usually ride a motorcycle because it’s convenient; he does it because it’s exhilarating. You know it’s more dangerous to opt for the motorcycle over the car, but there are few better climates for enjoying a motorcycle year-round than Florida’s. Be cautious and follow a few basic motorcycle safety tips to decrease your risk of a motorcycle accident.
Wear a Helmet
It messes up your hair. It’s hot and makes you sweat more. It just doesn’t seem “cool.” Many bikers have excuses not to wear helmets while riding a motorcycle, but the helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment saving you from an accident you can’t walk away from. Cars have seat belts, but on a motorcycle, you have nothing to protect your head from an impact, so you’re more likely to go flying in the event of an accident. A helmet will protect the most important part of your body when the unforeseen happens. As an added bonus, in Florida, your insurance is cheaper if you wear a helmet — and the visor protects your eyes, too.
Get used to wearing a helmet. Spruce it up with a personal logo. Pad it with sweat-absorption liners. Do whatever you need to do to get used to putting your helmet on before starting the ignition.
Wear Clothing Made From Thick Material
Your head isn’t the only part of your body that’s going to make contact with the road in the event of an accident. Decrease the risk of road burn or torn skin with heavy-duty jacket and pants made from materials such as leather (which offers the most protection) corduroy and denim.
No matter how hot it is outside or even if you’re working on a tan, wear pants and long sleeves, — never shorts and a T-shirt.
Don’t Forget Your Hands and Feet
When you fall, if you’re able, your first instinct is to shoot out your hands to brace for impact. Protect your hands and wear leather riding gloves, even when the temperatures are soaring. Similarly, protect your feet with flexible, over-the-ankle leather boots. Make sure the soles are made from sturdy rubber.
More than 5,000 people died in motorcycle-related accidents in 2012, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. There will always be an increased risk of accidents when riding a motorcycle, but if you’re careful, you can decrease your risk of an accident proving fatal.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident despite taking precautions, speak with a licensed injury lawyer in your area immediately. This way, you can gain a thorough understanding of your rights as an accident victim.