How to Be a Defensive Motorcycle Rider

By R. Sadler Bailey | February 5, 2020

If you are planning to operate a motorcycle on any of Tennessee’s roads, you need to make sure you are practicing good defensive driving habits. Motorcyclists have a much greater risk of getting into accidents on the road. The injuries sustained from those accidents are often more severe because motorcycle riders do not have the extra protection of a traditional vehicle to keep them safe during a collision. However, you don’t have to let the risks keep you from enjoying something that you have always wanted to do. If you want to drive a motorcycle and lower your risk of getting into an accident, here are a few tips for becoming a defensive motorcycle rider.

Always wear the right gear

Before you get on your motorcycle, you need to make sure you are wearing the right gear. Never get on the bike unless you have a protective helmet that covers both your head and face. It will protect you from the wind and the dust that can get into your eyes while you ride, and it can also protect you if you fall off your motorcycle and hit your head at any point. It is one piece of safety gear you do not want to leave home without, especially because it’s illegal to ride without one. The same goes for your passengers, too.

In addition to your helmet, you should have protective knee pads, elbow pads, and a comfortable windproof jacket to wear to keep you comfortable while you ride.

Use reflectors at night

Your bike has to have lights, but it also needs reflectors that work. You can wear a reflective jacket or put reflector tape on your helmet, too. The goal is to make sure other motorists see you on the road in an effort to avoid a motorcycle accident. Even if you are driving safely, others may be driving while distracted. You want to increase your visibility while you ride your motorcycle to prevent other drivers from crashing into you.

Pay attention to your surroundings

Always pay close attention to your surroundings. You need to be fully aware of what is going on around you when you are out on the road. You should pay attention to any signage and follow the rules of the road. Do not attempt to switch lanes without using turn signals and do not attempt to ride through red lights or make illegal turns. Not only is this illegal, but it can also increase your chances of getting into an accident with another motorist. If you are always paying attention and following the rules while out on the road, you have a much better chance of preventing an accident from happening.

Never operate a motorcycle under the influence

Do not get on your motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Operating a motorcycle while under the influence could cause a delay in your reaction times, and affect your ability to drive. You risk more than just your life, so don’t drink and ride.

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When you’re hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by another motorist, despite your best effort to ride defensively, you may be eligible to file a claim against that driver. If you are in West Tennessee, let Bailey & Greer, PLLC consult with you to find out more about the accident. Call us at 901-680-9777 or complete a contact form on our website to schedule a consultation at our Memphis or Jackson office.

 

 

Posted in Motorcycle Accidents