There is something about riding a motorcycle that never gets old. Perhaps the adrenaline rush comes with quick acceleration, the ability to quickly weave through traffic and hug turns at high speeds. Given the width of our roads, riding motorcycles in Kansas City can be thrilling. However, riding motorcycles comes with certain dangers, and everyone who loves being on a bike should be aware of them.
Motorcyclists and motorists on the open road have always had a precarious relationship. It is imperative that motorists obey the traffic laws and the rules of the road, take care when changing lanes, use their turn signals properly and take bikers seriously when encountering them on the road. Motorcycle safety should always be at the forefront for all motorcyclists, and that includes things such as:
- Checking tire pressure to prevent a blowout
- Wearing proper eye protection
- Avoiding potholes
- Obeying the speed limit
- Always wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet
- Wearing a helmet with a face shield if in inclement weather conditions
- Completing a motorcycle safety course on proper motorcycle riding
- Use safe riding techniques, such as using turn signals when you change lanes
- Keep the motorcycle maintained, including front and rear brakes, handlebars with good grip, and tire pressure, as well as ensuring your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all functioning to DOT standards
- Wearing other protective gear such as gloves, pads or full riding gear
- Always obey the rules of the road and use caution whenever you’re riding
With that, this post will focus on the common dangers facing motorcycle riders and how they can avoid them.
1. Stay out of blind spots
There is a reason why you still see signs and bumper stickers that say, start seeing motorcycles. A surprising number of car-motorcycle accidents are caused by lane changes and right-hand turns where a driver does not see a rider. Because of this, motorcycle riders must be mindful of how drivers may be engrossed in their own worlds (instead of looking for hazards).
2. Don’t drink and ride
You hear all of the public service announcements imploring drivers not to drink and drive. Motorcycle riders should follow suit; especially considering how alcohol affects a rider’s judgment and balance.
3. Resist the urge to do tricks
Indeed, it is fun to show off your moves and add some additional thrills to your experience by doing tricks. However, doing them in traffic (as opposed to an open parking lot) could lead to trouble. So keep the tricks where they should belong: on the practice track.
4. Maintain good hydration
Keeping your body and mind hydrated is vital, especially during the hot summers we have here in the Kansas City metro area. Without proper hydration, your brain can quickly become foggy, and an accident could happen.
5. When in inclement weather, be extra cautious
The days here in Missouri can change on a dime, and we can go from a sunny, calm day to stormy inclement weather at the drop of a hat. When that happens, safe riding and riding techniques need to be at their best.
6. Take motorcycle riding courses
Keeping your skills honed and sharpened is part of how you can practice safe riding. Enrolling in a riding course to learn riding techniques is beneficial for experienced and new riders alike, allowing them to learn new riding techniques and participate in a motorcycle safety course. All of this is there to make your riding experience the best it can be.
7. Make your intent clear
Often motorcycle accidents are the result of one or both of the drivers not being able to see what the other vehicle intends to do clearly. Lack of using turn signals when changing lanes, not seeing a brake light come on when the vehicle is slowing, or even not being aware of the motorcycle because it is in a blind spot. You cannot control what other motorists do, but you can control how you broadcast your intent when riding on the open road.
8. Be hyper-vigilant when riding with passengers
When you have a passenger, it is vital they understand the rules of your bike, how you negotiate turns and merging, and what they need to do or not do to help make the ride as safe and enjoyable as possible.
9. Follow all traffic laws
It can be exhilarating to crack the throttle wide open and give it all it’s got; however, speed limits and traffic laws are in place to provide motorists a guide for safely traveling that particular roadway or area.
10. Always wear protective gear
Accidents involving motor vehicles can be devastating, but when a motorcycle is involved, it can more easily be turned tragic. No amount of riding techniques or motorcycle safety courses can make up for the protection you gain from a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet, gloves, suits, eye protection, or other protective gear. The best way to prevent a brain injury from a motorcycle accident is to have a proper Department of Transportation-certified helmet – never ride without a helmet.
Safe riding will always be a combination of riding technique, protective gear, inclement weather, and, ultimately, when you choose to follow traffic laws. It’s important to check the weather to ensure you don’t get caught in the middle of the highway when inclement weather rolls in and is will always be vital to pursue continual education on safety
The preceding is not legal advice. If you have been injured in a car motorcycle accident in the Kansas City metro area, we invite you to contact our motorcycle accident attorney.