According to a study released by the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) motorcycle fatalities increased for the fifth year
in a row. Operating a motorcycle takes different skills than driving a car; however,
the laws of the road apply to every driver just the same. A combination of consistent
education, regard for traffic laws and basic common sense can go a long way in helping
reduce the amount of fatalities involved in motorcycle accidents on a yearly basis.
Here is a checklist that every motorcycle rider should follow:
• Always wear
a helmet with a face shield or protective eyewear — Wearing a helmet is
the best way to protect against severe head injuries.
A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain
a critical head injury.
• Wear appropriate
gear
— Make sure to wear protective gear and clothing that will minimize the amount of injuries
in case of an accident or a skid. Wearing leather clothing, boots with nonskid soles,
and gloves can protect your body from severe injuries.
Consider attaching reflective tape to your clothing to make it easier
for other drivers to see you.
• Follow traffic
rules — Obey the speed limit; the faster you go the
longer it will take you to stop. Be
aware of local traffic laws and rules of the road.
• Ride defensively — Don’t assume that a driver can see you, as nearly two-thirds
of all motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver
violating a rider’s right of way. You should always ride with your headlights
on; watch for turning vehicles; stay out of a driver’s blind spot; signal well in
advance of any change in direction; and watch for
turning vehicles.
• - Keep your
riding skills honed through education — According to
stated statistics, more than 90% of riders involved
in accidents have no formal training, and nearly half of these riders are unlicensed
or improperly licensed. Complete a formal riding education
program, get licensed and take riding courses
from time to time to develop riding techniques and
to sharpen your street-riding strategies.
• Be
awake and ride sober — More than half of all motorcycle fatalities
occur when the rider has been drinking. Don’t drink
and ride, you could cause harm to yourself and others. Additionally, fatigue and
drowsiness can impair your ability to react, so make
sure that you are well rested when you hit the road.