Why Should You Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?
Wearing a helmet can make all the difference between just a few scratches and road rash and a fatal motorcycle accident. The long answer is that there is much more to motorcycle safety than just helmets. Since motorcycles are as dangerous as they are fun, follow these tips to hit the road safely.
Find a Good Helmet and Wear It
There’s a saying in the biker community: “There are two kinds of riders: those who have crashed and those who will.” Even if you never find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident, a quality helmet is a sound investment for safety and avoiding fines. Data from the NTHSA suggests that motorcycle helmets saved 1,872 motorcyclists’ lives in the US in 2017.
Keep in mind wearing a helmet might not prevent death or severe injury in all cases. Still, it will reduce the likelihood of fatal injury by 37 percent. Plus, not wearing an appropriate motorcycle helmet will get you a hefty fine in California.
The three main types are full-face (integral), modular (flip-up), open-face and half-helmet when it comes to motorcycle helmets. Full-coverage motorcycle helmets such as full-face and modular offer much more protection than half-helmets.
You also want to make sure that your motorcycle helmet meets at least the DOT standard, the most basic safety standard. Look for SNELL or SHARP-compliant helmets for extra protection.
Gear up and Get Going
Nobody knows when tragedy will strike, so it makes sense always to be prepared. Aside from your motorcycle helmet, other must-have riding gear includes boots, gloves, and (at least) a leather jacket.
Also, get a body armor that protects you and a pair of abrasion-resistant pants that guard your skin and joints. Riding in, say, jeans, sneakers, and a cotton shirt is a recipe for disaster.
Take Care of Your Ride and Invest in Safety Features
When was the last time that you checked your tire wear, or had the oil changed? You do not want to find out that something is wrong while going 60mph on a freeway, so make sure that your ride is tip-top before heading out, especially if you have not ridden it for a while.
Additionally, invest in some extra safety features. If your ride lacks anti-lock brakes, you should get them. They will make your motorcycle easier to stop and steer in case of an emergency. Other motorcycle accessories such as frame sliders and anti-theft devices are also advisable.
Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself
A few simple steps can go a long way when it comes to motorcycle safety. The most basic one to prevent death or severe injury in motorcycle accidents is to wear a helmet. However, other measures, such as not drinking and driving, boost safety significantly.
Data from the NTHSA showed that 35 percent of all drivers killed in traffic crashes in 2017 had alcohol in their blood. If drinking and driving are harmful in cars, doing so on a motorcycle is much worse. Smaller steps like knowing the road rules, driving defensively, being on the lookout for obstacles, and not speeding can reduce an accident’s likelihood.
Taking part in a motorcycle safety course can also help you improve your driving and learn new techniques to avoid danger and react in emergencies. These courses have added benefits. Taking a motorcycle safety course might help you reduce your insurance prime or even get you a discount on your next bike.
It is crucial to keep in mind that even if you wear a helmet, gear up, keep your motorcycle in top condition and avoid reckless driving. If you still get into a motorcycle accident, the best way to round up your protection is to get appropriate motorcycle insurance. You can never be too safe.
Our Cost-U-Less agents are ready to help you find the best motorcycle insurance for your needs and budget. Start your free quote today online, over the phone, or at one of our offices near you.
