Motorcycle safety tips every rider should now

It’s no secret that riding a motorcycle has inherently more risks than driving a car. You are more likely to be hurt should an accident occur. Though it may not be always within your control, you can take precautionary measures to play your part in preventing an accident or reducing the risk of severe injury. Here are a few tips to help you, or someone you know, to have a safer ride.

All the Gear, All the Time

Always make sure to wear all your protective gear and clothing. Though it may be tempting to wear casual clothing, especially in the hotter seasons, feeling warm is a small sacrifice to make when it comes to your personal safety. Essential protection should include, but is not limited to:

• Full-face helmet
• Leather jacket and trousers
• Boots with non-skid soles
• Gloves

Stand Out

We advise to avoid dark and black colours for your clothing. Apart from absorbing the most heat during the day, such clothing makes you hard to detect, especially during the night. The best option is to wear bright reflective clothing to make it easier for other drivers to see you. You can also buy reflective tape which will serve the same purpose and provide extra visibility.

Do You Trust Your Machine?

When was the last time you had your motorcycle checked? Some might think that having an annual service is enough, but a service is typically to ensure your engine is running smoothly. Check your tire pressure especially when there is a change in temperature. While you’re at it, you can also check the manufacture date of your tires to see if they need changing. Another thing to check is if all your lights work including indicators and rear brake light/s.

Consider Training

Even if you are an experienced rider, it is never a waste of time to enroll yourself in an advanced motorcycle course, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve ridden a motorcycle. These lessons will help hone your riding skills and keep you informed on the latest road laws.

Ride Defensively

Never assume anything on the road. Your presence might be obvious to you, but not necessarily other drivers. Never drive too close to other vehicles as you might end up in their blind spot. Always leave enough room to expect the worst. A driver might be trying to avoid a pothole or even another vehicle. If you are going to attempt lane splitting, drive slowly and sound your horn to avoid any accidents.

Increase Speed. Reduce Options

Speed limits are not a suggestion for how fast you should go. They are a legal requirement. Every road has its own speed limit for a reason, in response to the area and its surroundings. The faster you go, the harder it is to react in time. You should take extra care in urban areas. You never know when someone is going to cross the road unexpectedly. The faster you ride, the less chance you have to react to an unexpected situation.

Know the Road, Know Your Limits

Over confidence is one of the major reasons for accidents on motorbikes. It’s important to always stay alert even when going through roads you’ve passed before. Look out for signs of roadworks going on, especially at night. It’s also important to know your abilities and capabilities. Are you experienced enough to ride around that bend at your current speed?

Always ride sober

It’s simple, don’t drink and ride. It’s the law. But alcohol isn’t the only thing that can impair your ability to react. You shouldn’t ride if you’re particularly tired and find it hard to concentrate or stay awake. Another thing people take for granted are prescription drugs. Certain drugs make you drowsy or affect your judgement, it’s important to read the instructions or consult a doctor if you are taking any new medication.

Even if you follow all the tips we’ve provided, you can never guarantee you won’t be in an accident. That’s why it’s important to have your motorcycle insured with the best type of cover you can afford. Laferla offers a wide cover of insurances to suit your needs as well as free breakdown service and a 7 day claims settlement promise. Discover more about our motorcycle insurance and get a quote today.

written by Keith Laferla

 Assistant General Manager