Motorcycle Awareness and Safety

Spring is nearly here and that means warm weather and outdoor activities. It also signals that motorcyclists are out. It's great to put on that helmet and start your cycle up. It's been in the garage all winter, so this is a perfect time to hit the road. Before you do, however, remember that driving a motorcycle is serious business and make sure you are ready for the road. You do not want to worry about finding a motorcycle injury lawyer, but it is good to know that they are there in case you need them. Here are a few things to consider before you start out on your journey.

What's that over there?

First off, and this may seem like a no-brainer, is to be aware of your surroundings. Think about it. How many times have you been driving down the road and singing to the radio and forget that you are driving? Guilty? I know I am. How about this one? Have you ever been driving home from work exhausted and catch yourself staring off into the distance or day-dreaming? Once again, guilty! The point is that it is easy to become distracted and miss some pretty noticeable things such as fellow drivers. Now, throw a much smaller motorcycle into the mix, and you have a recipe for what could become a disaster!

It's your job too!

But safety and being aware is a one-way street; far from it to be honest. Being aware of motorcycles is not just for motorists but also cyclists. If you are riding a motorcycle, be mindful that you are. Now, what do I mean by this? Of course, you are aware you are on a motorcycle. You should act like you're on one. Don't put yourself in a situation that could get you injured. For example, do not ride in someone's blind spot. It can be hard enough to see a large vehicle let alone a bike that is a quarter of the size.

Dress appropriately

Wear bright clothing! Yeah I know, all that black leather looks cool. But wearing bright or reflective clothing can keep you safe. It allows other drivers to more readily notice you. You may not think cruising down the road in reflective clothing sounds like your idea of cool, but it sounds a lot cooler than being in a hospital bed or pine box covered in dirt. I don't mean to sound harsh, but your safety is nothing to jeopardize. You mean something to someone in this world. Believe me; they would rather see you pulling into your driveway all bright and shiny rather than being taken to the hospital via ambulance.

Wear your helmet

Whether your state requires it or not (mine does not, but I still wear one) wear your helmet. For some reason, people tend to believe it is okay not to wear their helmet. I don't know if they think that the bandana they have on is made of bulletproof Kevlar, or that going with no lid makes them look tougher, but rest assured, no matter how tough you are or think you are, asphalt is still tougher than your skull. Remember, it's not if you go down but when. In that .3 seconds that you have between that "oh $%#@" moment and impact, you're going to wish you had a helmet on! Read up and do your research here for more hard facts and numbers.

That's all folks!

Whether you are traveling down the road in an enclosed vehicle or cruising on a big V-Twin, be safe. Always be aware of your surroundings. Never take your safety for granted. No matter who you are, someone cares for you and wants you to return home the same way you left. Don't let a bad decision ruin your life and the lives of your loved ones. Don't take unnecessary risks, and follow all the rules and regulations. Remember, the laws are there for our safety. Sadly, they were probably written because of somebody's misfortune. Don't allow yourself to become a statistic. Make sure you make it to your destination to enjoy the warmer weather. Whether it's a solo adventure or a get together with friends, make it there and back as safely as possible!

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