MOTORCYCLE SAFETY

BE PREPARED!

Motorcyclists never embark on a trip thinking they could be the next statistic; however, it happens. If there was a crystal ball informing motorcyclists when a crash was about to happen, thousands of deaths could be avoided. Unfortunately that is not reality. Reality is that thousands of motorcyclists are injured while riding every year. Too many riders are comfortable with just putting on shades, T-shirts, shorts and flip flops and often don’t consider the dangers that lie ahead on the road.

Wearing proper riding gear is one way to protect yourself against injury should a crash occur.

 

PROPER GEAR INCLUDES:

 

Helmet:
Head protection should be the first consideration when choosing riding gear. Wearing a fitted DOT-approved helmet is the best choice for defensive riding.

 

Face Shield:
A face shield protects the eyes and face from flying debris. Protective eye wear can leave the face and distract the rider.

 

Jacket:
A good high-visibility jacket can make all the difference when it comes to being seen. Some riders say jackets get too hot. A solution to this problem is to select a jacket with armored and adjustable vents for changing weather conditions.

 

Gloves:
It is important to wear full coverage and armored leather gloves that help protect your hands from flying objects and during landing in the event of a crash.

 

Pants:
Most rider injuries are to the lower extremities, so pants are an important part of riding gear. Heavy pants or pants with armor offer the best protection and protect against sunburn and windburn.

 

Boots:
Boots provide comfort and protection to the hot and sharp motorcycle parts. They also provide a good grip on the foot rests and road.

Think ahead and protect yourself from head to toe, day and night and in any weather. Defensive driving is the best way to avoid a crash, but should one occur, you need a second line of defense between you and the road.

 

 

~ By Julie Coplea, Staff Assistant

 

 

 

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