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There’s freedom found in the open road, especially for motorcyclists. Not covered up like in a car, you can feel the wind on your body as the miles fly by. However, that freedom also leaves you vulnerable. Take these precautions to prevent a personal injury when you’re out on your bike.   

How Can Motorcyclists Protect Themselves on the Road?

1. Wear Protective Gear 

Helmets are your primary source of protection, and you should never ride without one. You will also increase your safety by investing in the right kind of clothes. Leather jackets made of Kevlar or Cordura provide body armor, which will protect vulnerable areas like your back, elbows, and shoulders if impacted in a crash.  

There are also pants explicitly designed for bikers. They can be made of leather, textile, Kevlar, or denim. Textile materials are usually worn over your regular pants, adding a layer of protection.   

Leather gloves will provide extra padding around your fingers, knuckles, and palms while textile gloves are waterproof and will protect you from abrasions. 

Wear boots that are high enough to cover your ankles. They should have nonskid soles that are also oil-resistant so that you can maintain a sturdy grip. 

2. Inspect Your Bike

Personal InjuryMake sure your bike is ready before every ride. Check your tire pressure first. While cars have the balance and time to respond to a blowout, motorcycles don’t have that luxury. 

Look for oil or gas leaks and check the coolant and hydraulic fluids every week. 

Adjust the mirrors to ensure a comprehensive view and clean them as needed. Test your horn, headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Your clutch should be functioning, and your throttle should snap back when it’s released. Your front and rear breaks should be able to hold the motorcycle when fully applied. They should also be firm to the touch and not loose. 

3. Remain Visible

The sleek design of a motorcycle makes it difficult for drivers to see you when you’re riding. You should wear reflective tape on your clothing, even if you aren’t driving at night. 

Most collisions occur when a car’s driver violates the biker’s right of way. To prevent a personal injury, always ride with your headlights on, stay out of blind spots, and avoid weaving through traffic. 

While it’s easy to simply focus on the road ahead, remember to check your mirrors consistently. When riding on the street, watch for turning cars. 

If you’re new to riding, there are courses you can take to sharpen your skills and develop driving strategies. 

 

You may be a cautious and safe motorcyclist, but not all drivers are. If you’ve experienced a personal injury due to a neglectful motorist, reach out to Salerno & Leavitt. For over 30 years, they’ve provided compassionate support and dedicated representation to their clients. For more information on their legal services, visit their website. If you’re in the Omaha, NE, area, call (402) 502-9002 for a free case evaluation. 

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