Summer will be upon us shortly. This means sunshine, beautiful weather, and lots of opportunities to ride your motorcycle. Many people look at riding their motorcycle as more than just a way to get somewhere; they look at it as a means of relaxation. For many, it’s an important hobby too. But although riding your motorcycle is a popular summertime activity, it can also be quite risky. While we can’t eliminate all of the risks, there are certain things that we can do to reduce it. Here are 5 tips to stay safe on your motorcycle this summer.
1. Wear the Proper Safety Gear
It’s important to understand that the proper gear to wear changes with the season. What you should wear in the summer is going to be different than what you wear in the spring, fall, and winter. While you want to be sure that you always wear certain articles such as your helmet, eye gear, gloves, and footwear, the ones you wear during the summer are much lighter. Therefore they can still keep you protected while also allowing you more comfort.
2. Prepare for the Weather
The weather during the summer is often much nicer than other parts of the year. However, the season isn’t without its own inclement days. You should never assume that it’s going to be nice – even if it’s nice at the time that you plan on leaving. Before you hop on your bike, check the weather. By knowing if there will be heavy rain, strong winds, or extreme heat, you can plan ahead to be sure you are comfortable and safe.
3. Follow All Traff5. ic Laws
Few things are more annoying than waiting in bumper-to-bumper traffic. While cars and trucks cannot maneuver between one another, motorcycles are small enough to do so. However, this doesn’t mean that you should weave in and out of traffic. Avoid speeding and respect all of the laws of the road. Defensive driving can be lifesaving. Always assume that others cannot see you on your motorcycle and drive accordingly.
4. Ensure the Safety of Your Tires
During the winter your tire pressure will often drop significantly. Tires with lower pressure can make it more difficult to handle your motorcycle. For this reason, it’s important that you regularly check on your tires after the winter season and before driving. Also, keep an eye on your tire tread. Once you notice that they’re decaying even slightly, you should have them replaced.
It’s a fact that your tire pressure can drop a significant amount over the course of the winter. Since tires with lower pressure can have a negative effect on your ability to handle the motorcycle, it’s necessary that you always check on this prior to driving. You should also remain conscious of the tread on your tires. If your tread is worn or rotting even a small amount, it’s time to replace your tires.
5. Be Sure Your Brakes Are Working Properly
Your brakes are undoubtedly crucial to ensuring the maintenance and safety of your motorcycle. This is why it’s imperative that you regularly check their condition. Try squeezing the front brake, as well as pressing on the rear brake pedal. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the level of brake fluid. Additionally, take a look at the calipers on your front and rear brakes to be sure you have enough brake pad material left. You can use a flashlight. If you are unsure about any of these components, you should seek help from a mechanic.
Consult with a Qualified Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it can have a big impact on your life – physically, emotionally, and especially financially. That is why you deserve an experienced personal injury attorney who understands the law and knows how it works. Partnering with such an attorney can help to gather the requested police reports and medical records. It is important to have someone in your corner – especially to deal with insurance companies.
At Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC, we work with our clients to fight for what it is that they deserve. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Motorcycle Accident