That glorious season of the year has once again rolled around - the sun is shining, the weather's warming, and it's time to fire up your motorcycle and head out on the open road. Before you do, it's worth your time to review these quick safety tips from Insurance.com - a timely topic since May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
1. Breaking Distance.
Maintaining a safe breaking distance is common sense to many riders, but failing to maintain proper breaking distance remains the cause of many accidents and deserves a quick review.
Remember, there is more to breaking distance than just how fast you pump those breaks. It's all about perception: For instance, when you see that cute pooch jump out in front of your motorcycle, you must make the mental connection between the potential hazard (like your neighbor's dog) and your breaking time. This one is all about you, the rider, and how sharp your reflexes and awareness are. To ensure a safe break time make sure to stay alert, scan down-road for potential hazards, and keep a safe distance between you and the other drivers on the road.
2. Related to breaking time is Reaction Distance.
This is basically the time the rider perceives the approaching danger (like a neighbor's dog), reaches for the brake lever and/or pedal, and actually begins to apply the brakes. The reaction distance is directly related to the rider's motor skills and familiarity with his/her motorcycle.
For the average rider, reaction time is about half a second, and is directly proportional to motorcycle speed. So if you are traveling too fast, your reaction speed will suffer, putting you at risk. Follow recommended speeds and you'll have a much better chance at making those critical moves or stops in plenty of time. Or, you'll have at least enough time to avoid hitting your poor neighbor's dog!
3. Roadway Hazards.
Your ride isn't always as smoothly as planned. Keep in mind blocks in your path that may pop up, such as a plastic or hard-rubber material embedded in roadways like at railroad crossings. This can really screw up your ride and motorcycle. Such material makes for a smoother and presumably more durable crossing, but unfortunately, it is treacherously slick when these surfaces become even a bit wet.
So how do you deal with unexpected roadway conditions placed there by road crews? First off, be aware of their presence and appreciate how slippery surfaces can become, even if it only appears to be slightly damp. When you encounter such a bump, slow down before contacting the surface. Just make sure you don't break hard or accelerate before your tires contact this unexpected bump in the road.
4. Passing.
Sure, you'll have times when you want to pass slower-moving cars on a two-lane highway - just watch for cars on both your left and right hand side.
Here's the problem: Most drivers aren't as concerned about monitoring their right hand sides, which happens to be the direction from which you're often approaching. So a driver might just pull out in front of you before even realizing you are there.
How to keep safe when on your motorcycle passing other vehicles? Check for oncoming traffic before you decide to pass, and make sure there is no one looking to make a move and pull out in front of you. If a car wants to do so, pull back and let him. Don't be tempted to race cars in passing - because they might not see you, and their car weighs a lot more than your bike. Sit back, let them make their move, and then react.
5. A few final reminders to keep you cruising smoothly and safely down the road include:
* Wear brightly colored clothes, and turn on your lights at all times
* Don't put the safety ball in other drivers' court - take measures to make sure you are safe and visible at all times. Enjoy your rights as a bike rider; just stay smart and prepare for those preoccupied drivers not so concerned with your own safety and rights.
* Of course, motorcycle helmets decrease your chances of injury - regardless of your state law and right to wear them or not. However, cheap motorcycle helmets or poorly produced helmets may not get the job done when your head unexpectedly meets the pavement. For more information on helmets and state law requirements visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's website.
* And last but not least, don't forget about your motorcycle insurance! If you are in an accident, or someone takes a swipe out of your bike, you'll be counting your lucky stars you are well-covered with a solid motorcycle insurance policy. For more tips like these, consider visiting the National Association of State Motorcycle Administrators.
Follow these five simple safety tips to enjoy a great and memorable riding season! These motorcycle safety tips were provided by Insurance.com, the nation's largest online auto insurance agency. If you are looking for a great price on motorcycle insurance, visit Insurance.com's partners online at GEICO or call Safeco at 1-866-215-1308 for a competitive motorcycle insurance quote today! Also, if you are in the market for auto insurance or would like to get an auto insurance quote, visit Insurance.com's auto insurance comparison application. Here, you will be able to evaluate multiple rates from best-in-class car insurance providers, helping you save time and money on your car insurance.
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