Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle is more popular than ever as mode of transportation. This is due to its low initial cost, great gas mileage and its use as a pleasure vehicle. Motorcycle fatalities represent approximately five percent of all highway fatalities each year according from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.
One of the main reasons motorcyclists are killed in crashes is because the motorcycle itself provides virtually no protection. A car has more stability since it has four wheels and is easier to see. Motorcycles are a blast. The agility, maneuverability, ability to stop quickly, and ability to swerve quickly when necessary all add to the adrenaline rush of riding a motorcycle.
There are precautions that a biker can take to decrease the change of being injured in a motorcycle accident.

• First, one should wear protective clothing and gears while riding their motorcycle.
• If riding during night time, make yourself visible to other drivers by wearing brightly colored clothing.
• Avoid riding your motorcycle on rough roads or in bad weather conditions.
• Do not exceed the speed limit.
• Always avoid riding while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Treat other motorists with courtesy and respect.
• Avoid tailgating.
• Know and obey traffic rules, including ordinances in the community.
• Use signal when appropriate.

Riders must ride aware and know their limits. Bikers must be aware of and understand their motorcycle’s limitations and the environment in which they ride. Unfortunately accidents are unavoidable; a great site for more tips is motorcycleaccident.org. Many of these safety measures are common sense, but not easily followed.