Getting your first motorcycle is exciting! For some it may fulfill a lifelong dream; for others it means the freedom to get around town (and beyond) without having to depend on public transportation or offers of rides from friends. Motorcycles can also be dangerous, though, as you probably realize. Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to the elements and to other drivers. Here are 6 things to keep in mind as you begin your lifetime of motorcycle riding.
Stay safe
Often just one little action or bit of forethought is all you need to save yourself from a lifetime of grief and pain. Make sure you:
1. Practice until riding becomes second nature. Lots of practice will enable you to react to what is happening on the road instead of dealing with the basics of riding your motorcycle.
2. Get to know your bike very well.
3. Wear protective equipment, and not just a helmet. There is a reason bikers wear those heavy leather jackets – if they get in an accident, they will have some protection if they end up on the ground.
4. Avoid distractions. It may be tempting to put those ear buds in and get going to your favorite tunes, but motorcycle riders need to fully concentrate, with as few distractions as possible. You need to make sure you can hear what is going on around you.
5. Always keep an adequate space cushion. You want to make sure you have plenty of time to stop or react to what is going on in front of you.
6. Avoid blind spots. Just because a car you are right next to should be able to see you doesn’t mean they will. Always anticipate that they might try to change lanes, even if they shouldn’t.
Whether you are brand new to motorcycle riding or you have been riding motorcycles for years, safety should always be your first priority. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced accident lawyer to answer all of the questions you have and to protect your rights. Call attorney Laurie Robbins’ Atlanta office today, at 404-252-8117, for a free consultation.