10 Critical Tips for New Motorcycle Riders to Know

The open road and the wind in your hair are the reasons you bought your motorcycle. However, riding a motorcycle on the road with motor vehicles is a dangerous game – especially when you are new to riding. Each year, thousands are injured and die in motorcycle accidents. In fact, 2015 saw almost 5,000 deaths and 88,000 riders were injured. Knowing these statistics, it is imperative that you know how to use your bike and the proper safety.

10 Must-Know Riding Tips for New Motorcycle Owners

It does not matter the type of bike you have, but how you ride it.

1. Wear the Right Gear

Arizona only requires you to wear a helmet if you are 17 years and younger, but a motorcycle helmet could save your life. Therefore, do not forgo safety for fashion.

2. Buy Right

New riders do not need a faster more powerful motorcycle. Start with the amount of bike that you can control and upgrade later.

3. Take Classes

Take motorcycle safety and riding lessons. These teach you defensive riding techniques.

4. Visibility

Wear high visibility gear to ensure vehicles see you. Vests with reflective strips help increase visibility at night or during poor weather conditions.

5. Weather

Never ride a bike during rain or when roads are slick. Motorcycles only have two wheels to control themselves, so keep them in the garage and opt for your motor vehicle instead.

6. Hazards

Road hazards such as potholes or debris can cause you to lose control of your bike. Be on the lookout for these as you ride and avoid patches of sand, leaves, or pebbles.

7. Inspect

Before every ride, check your bike to ensure it has working lights, proper mirror placement, and proper tire pressure.

8. Passengers

Do not take passengers until you have familiarized yourself with your bike and riding it on the road.

9. Check

Motorists are not looking for you, even though they should. Always double check before changing lanes, making turns, and stopping to ensure the vehicle behind you sees you.

10. Maintenance

Perform all manufacturer recommended maintenance to keep your bike safe.

Options after a Motorcycle Accident

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident with a vehicle or truck, and the driver was negligent, you may be eligible for compensation. To explore your options, you need a personal injury attorney. Contact Udall Shumway, PLC to see what we can do for your motorcycle accident injuries.

 

This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you or someone you know wishes to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney regarding Tips for New Motorcycle Riders to Know,  or other personal injury matters, call Mesa AZ Personal Injury Attorney Clark R. Richter at 480-461-5321 or contact him at crr@udallshumway.com for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options. Udall Shumway PLC is located in Mesa, Arizona and is a full service law firm. We assist Individuals, families, businesses, schools and municipalities in Mesa and the Phoenix/East Valley.