Nothing quite feels like riding a motorcycle. The feeling of being free and one with the road on a light weight, yet powerful two-wheeled machine, is what compels so many motorcyclists to partake in riding. Although motorcycle riding is in an enjoyable experience, as well as a practical and efficient means of transportation, there’s no doubting that serious risks of accidents and injury that comes with riding. To stay safe on the road, here are some important motorcycle safety tips for drivers to consider.
The first of the motorcycle safety tips for drivers may seem a bit obvious, but it involves always wearing your helmet. Incredibly, only 19 states in the U.S. have universal helmet laws for motorcycle riding, despite the Department of Transportation recommending that all U.S. riders utilize a DOT certified helmet while riding. If an accident occurs while riding, a helmet can be the difference between your life, and a few broken bones.
Secondly, it’s important to have your motorcycle parts inspected and upgraded when necessary. A 2013 survey from Consumer Report found that the most common issues riders had with their motorcycles were brake related. Brakes are incredibly important for motorcycle riders, the ability to stop almost instantaneously can save your life, and having the proper breaks will allow you to do so. While many motorcycles come with adequate stock brakes, some don’t. For motorcycles that need an upgrade of their stock brakes or current worn out breaks, riders can buy aftermarket motorcycle parts online for great prices. However, buying aftermarket parts extend far beyond just improving brake performance – After market motorcycle parts and accessories often allow motorcycles to become safer, faster, more durable, and more valuable.
Finally, it’s important for riders to constantly be surveying the road. Surveying the road refers to continuously scanning the road with your eyes so that if any unexpected situations arise, the proper maneuver can be taken to avoid collision. Additionally, The Department of Transportation recommends that motorcyclists always check for “NO ZONES” on large vehicles. A “NO ZONE” is a vehicles blind spot, meaning that the driver cannot see motorcycles driving behind or next to them. Many collisions between automobiles and motorcycles occur in this zone; when following behind, or passing a vehicle, use extreme caution and be ready to escape if the vehicle gets too close.