Regardless of whether Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow or not, spring is right around the corner. As the days get longer and warmer, the weather becomes better and better for dusting off your motorcycle and going out for a ride. While riding a motorcycle can be fun, you should take the proper precautions to ensure that your ride doesn’t end in tragedy.
Stay safe on your motorcycle by adhering to these basic motorcycle safety tips:
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Wear a helmet
Wearing a helmet is required by Tennessee state law. Many states, however, do not require this. A study by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) found that in motorcycle crashes, helmets can increase the likelihood of surviving a crash by 37 percent for drivers and 41 percent by passengers.
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Dress for the occasion
Wear appropriate gear and shoes while riding. While flip flops may be comfortable in the summer heat, they will not protect your feet from the heat produced by a running motorcycle, nor will they protect you from road debris in the event of a crash. Shorts won’t protect your skin either if you fall to the asphalt. Adequate eye gear can also go a long way in making sure your eyes are safe from debris.
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Use proper following etiquette
Just like in a car, if you follow the person in front of you too closely, you increase the risk of running into the back of them. Give plenty of space in between you and the other vehicles on the road.
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Pay attention to the road
If you wouldn’t do it in a car, there is no way you should do it on a vehicle with two less wheels and no protection around your body. Refrain from wearing a headset to listen to music and do not use your phone. Furthermore, pay close attention to the vehicles around you. Don’t assume that the other drivers can see you. Keep out of vehicle blind spots and make eye contact with drivers when possible.
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Weather is not always your friend
It’s not the best idea to ride your motorcycle in the rain. Rain not only reduce visibility for you and other drivers, but it can also draw out oil and other slick substances from the asphalt. If you get caught in a rainstorm, take your time and drive carefully or pull over until it passes.
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Drive with common sense
Motorcycles are powerful vehicles; therefore, they should be treated with respect. Just because they have the capability of going fast and the maneuverability to weave through traffic does not mean that it is safe to do so. Show common sense and abide by posted speed limits.
If you were involved in an accident while driving your motorcycle, and another driver was at fault, please contact Tennessee motorcycle accident attorneys in Knoxville, Nashville and Memphis. For more information, please also read our blog and knowledge center.