What precautions should I take when on my motorcycle?

You may enjoy the freedom you feel when you ride your motorcycle on the streets. But along with being one of your favorite pastimes, it’s also one of the most dangerous. Motorcycle accidents happen every day in Florida and all across the country. Even if you have yet to experience one personally, you should not overlook or take for granted the things you can do to stay safe. 

You should always take precautions when operating any motor vehicle, but motorcycles present additional risks. Your vehicle is not always easily visible to other motorists. It also does not offer you much protection from collisions and being thrown. Here are a few simple things you can do to increase how safe the roads are for you and everyone. 

Avoid riding when the roads are wet 

Slick weather conditions and streets mean less traction and a higher chance of accidents for motorcyclists. These conditions can become even more hazardous when riders and other motorists are distracted, fatigued or intoxicated. Bikers should plan their travels to limit the amount of time they must ride on moist pavements and in wet weather. 

Always wear a helmet 

Helmets are one of the most effective pieces of safety gear motorcyclists can wear. They significantly reduce the severity of serious injuries to the neck, spine and head. They also help to prevent serious brain trauma. You may feel they limit your vision and are not attractive. But when it comes to safety, helmets often mean the difference between life and serious disability or death. 

Follow all traffic signs and rules 

It can be so easy to get caught up in the excitement of riding that you stop paying attention to traffic rules and signs. It is important for you to stay fully alert and aware of everything that is going on around you and to remember your responsibilities as a motorist.

You may think of safety measures as something for other less skilled riders. But they can help to save your own life one day. Never take your riding responsibilities for granted; take every safety precaution possible to avoid an accident you may not walk away from.