The Ultimate Motorcycle Safety Checklist: 8 Tips For Bikers To Reduce Their Risk Of Being Involved In A Traffic Accident

To many people, their beloved motorcycle is more than simply a means of transportation. Bikers all over the world will speak to the overwhelming sense of joy and freedom they get when on their Harley, Indian, Ducati, Kawasaki, or Suzuki. The roar of the engine and the wind, paired with the open road before them and the absence of the constraints that are often felt in the cab of a vehicle, all work to create a unique thrill and flood the rider’s senses with a rush of adrenaline. It’s an experience, not just a commute. 

That being said, the facts of their risk cannot be ignored. Though they make up only 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States, motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities and 17% of all occupant fatalities in 2021 according to the National Safety Council, which also found that deaths from motorcycle accidents have increased by 19% over the past decade. 

If you’re a biker, we know you love your machine, and we want to help you continue your enjoyment of it safely! Below, you’ll find 8 crucial motorcycle safety tips to help you greatly reduce your risk of being injured in a traffic accident.

1 – Always Wear Protective Gear. 

According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic Rider’s Course, there are 6 vital pieces of safety gear that every rider and passenger should wear: 

• Helmets – a DOT-approved helmet that fits properly, does not rotate around when you shake your head, and does not impede your peripheral vision in any way
• Eye protection – while most full-face helmets are equipped with highly-rated windscreens, many half-face helmets do not provide eye protection; be sure to choose a style of safety glasses that is rated with certifications from non-profit safety organizations
• Boots – a solid sole and good ankle support are the bare minimum; specialized boots that have greater weatherproofing, articulation, and protection are highly recommended
• Gloves – your hands are typically the first thing to hit the ground when you fall, so the pair you choose should ideally be durable, be equipped with palm sliders, and cover your fingers fully
• Durable clothing – such as that that includes plastic body armor, quality leather, and Kevlar padding
• Jackets – one that is comfortable to wear in all climates, has proper ventilation, a weatherproof shell, built-in back and chest protectors, and elbow and wrist guards 
  

2 – Be Sure To Maintain Your Motorcycle

This motorcycle safety step is essentially the same no matter what type of vehicle you plan to drive. It is very important to regularly check and maintain your motorcycle, including the brakes, tires, lights, and signals. Additionally, always ensure that your mirrors are properly adjusted to provide a clear view of the surrounding traffic before you begin driving. 

3 – Drive Defensively.

To drive defensively means to drive in a way that emphasizes proactive measures to anticipate and respond to potential hazards. This includes constant vigilance, maintaining safe following distances, avoiding blind spots, using turn signals and hand signals, and more. You should never assume that other drivers can or do see you, and you must be prepared for unexpected maneuvers. 

4 – Enroll In A Motorcycle Safety Course. 

Participating in a reputable motorcycle safety course, such as the Florida Safe Rider Basic Rider’s Course, The Basic Bike Bonding RiderCourse (BBBRC), or the New Rider Course offered by the Harley Davidson Riding Academy, can improve riding skills and awareness. 

5 – Enhance Your Visibility.

As already stated, motorcycle riders can never assume that other drivers can or do see them. To enhance your visibility, be sure to use your high beam lights (even in the daylight), tap your brakes, wear highly visible or reflective gear, use your turn signals, use your horn, and add LED lights to your gear or ride. 

6 – Be Mindful Of Road And Weather Conditions.

Road conditions like slippery surfaces, gravel, and uneven surfaces can greatly impact your stability and therefore your potential to ride safely, so you’ll have to pay close attention to changes. The same goes for weather conditions like wind, rain, snow, and other elements.

7 – Use Anti-Lock Brakes.

ABS, or anti-lock braking systems, prevent wheel locking and increase stability. Braking too hard can lead to front or rear wheel-locking, which can cause a bike to overturn or slide. An Australian study found that ABS could reduce the rate of death and severe injury from motorcycle crashes by 31%.

8 – Stay Educated.

Keeping yourself informed on the latest motorcycle safety features is extremely important, but so is knowing what to do if you, unfortunately, find yourself involved in an accident. Chiefly, never admit fault. Prioritize seeking medical attention immediately, even if you don’t think you’re injured. It can take time for some external injuries to make themselves apparent, and you also need to be checked for internal injuries. This step is also vital for getting your injuries on record for any personal injury claims you make after the fact. You should follow the doctor’s orders to ensure your recovery goes smoothly.

Moreover, keep your own record of pain, suffering, missed work, lost wages, and more effects of the accident. This will also work to your advantage if you pursue a personal injury claim. You’ll need the representation of an aggressive and experienced personal injury attorney, so it’s in your best interest to secure them as soon as you are able. When hired in a timely manner, an attorney who specializes in motorcycle accident cases can preserve crucial evidence related to the accident, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, and other relevant documentation that may become less accessible over time. 

Plus, getting a lawyer on board from the get-go can make the whole insurance claims maze a lot less daunting. They will make sure your rights are covered, educate you on your legal options, determine what your claim may be worth, and more! They likely have their own playbook on how insurance companies might try to get out of paying you what you deserve. They will give you your best chance at a favorable outcome. 

The Award-Winning Attorneys At The Florida Law Group Have Recovered Over $1 Billion For Our Clients!

Injured in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault? We will work diligently to secure the settlement you deserve, or else you don’t owe us anything! Call today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can guide you through this difficult time.