Any motorcyclist will be rightly suspicious of other road users. There aren’t quite enough motorcycles in the US to compel every road user to check their mirrors for bikes, leading to frequent crashes during which a car driver is at fault. There’s also not a great deal of respect for motorcyclists, who are, after all, a lot more vulnerable should they be knocked off their bikes. Given this heightened risk, here’s a quick guide on how you can remain safe, secure and happy as a motorcyclist in 2022.
- Awareness
As we mentioned, it’s common for motorcyclists to find themselves in accidents for which they were at no fault at all. But it’s also common for other motorcyclists to argue that accidents are avoidable – you just need to treat every road user as if they’ve not spotted you and may do something unpredictable that leads to you coming off your bike. That’s something you learn as you get used to driving on two wheels on the roads. The tip here, then, is to be hyperaware of the flaws of other road users, and to always make efforts to keep yourself safe from whatever error they might make on the road.
- Hazards
If you’re new to motorcycling, you may also be unaware of the typical hazards that you might experience on the roads – and those which only affect motorcyclists. Painted white or yellow lines are slippery in wet conditions, and can cause your bike to wobble or even fall on its side. Be careful of these, especially on corners. Manhole covers or drain grates are likewise hazards to be avoided where possible, though it’s important that you don’t drive jerkily in order to avoid them as this could also cause you to have an accident.
- Accidents
Despite the advice provided here, it’s likely that you’ll experience an accident if you spend many years riding a motorcycle daily. In these cases, it’s incredibly important that you seek medical attention immediately. Motorcycle crash injuries can be severe, even if the adrenaline initially numbs you from the pain.
Once you’re safe and treated by medical professionals, it’s time to contact a San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss how you’ll win compensation for your accident – covering all medical costs, the cost of your lost bike and equipment, and any other lost cash related to your accident.
- Bike Security
Motorcycles are commonly stolen, because they’re comparatively easier than a car to load onto a truck, to hide, and to modify in order to resell them. As such, your motorcycle is an asset that you should do your very best to protect. Never leave it parked on a public street overnight or, if you must, always park it in the light of a streetlamp and in an area covered by CCTV. You can add security elements to your bike – like a more secure locking system or a clamp – to make it more secure when you leave it on its own.
There you have it: 4 fundamental tips for motorcyclists looking to remain safe and secure on your road trip in 2022.
