Motorcycle Safety
Driving and riding a motorcycle is one of the most exciting anyone can do on the road, but like with any vehicle, the thrill also comes with its own dangers and risks. Motorcyclists are faced with everyday dangers on the road unique to them and are posed to greater risks than a driver of a larger vehicle. As a motorcycle rider, you should be aware of the laws and safety measures. While motorcyclists must abide to the same rules of the road, there are special requirements and procedures, in where motorcycle accident laws may be involved.
Most states require a license in order to drive a motorcycle. This is license that is separate from your normal driver’s license, which is something that those who wants to start driving a motorcycle are unaware of. There are also mandatory lessons about safety, laws, and riding techniques that you must learn before acquiring your license. Many states also require wearing helmets or some sort of eye protection. Certain lights are also required to be use on the road. Not abiding by these rules and safety measures can put you at a greater risk for accidents.
Risks of Riding a Motorcycle
When operating a motorcycle, it is known that you are at a higher risk for accidents. Motorcycles are a lot smaller and lighter than any other vehicle. They do not have an enclosed barrier that protects the driver from any impact. They also do not have any seatbelts or airbags like in a standard four-wheel car. These lack of safety features already makes the driver vulnerable and can lead to results of severe injuries or death in an accident.
Other than the factor of the motorcycle itself, there are other dangers that riders face everyday:
Less Visibility: because of their small size, motorcycles are easily blocked or hidden by larger vehicles. Accidents due to this problem usually happen at intersections.
Weather and Road Hazards: safety of motorcyclists is also affected by the conditions of the roads. Potholes, debris, cracks, uneven road surfaces, or any slight damage can even cause a motorcycle to crash. Harsh weather conditions, such as rain or snow, can also be major problems on the road.
Riding Skills: riding a motorcycle requires a different set of hand-eye coordination and mental skills. Many accidents happen because of the driver’s lack of riding skills.
