According to the Insurance Information Institute (III):
- In 2012, there were approximately 8.5 million motorcycles operating on the roads.
- In 2013, 4,668 people died in motorcycle crashes and 88,000 motorcyclists were injured.
With those kinds of statistics, it’s easy to see why motorcycle safety is so important.
Practice Basic Motorcycle Safety
Basic motorcycle safety is pretty simple: Learn to properly ride your bike and how to dress yourself once you’re ready to hit the pavement.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
One of the best ways to stay safe on a motorcycle is to take a motorcycle safety course. In fact, some states require motorcycle safety courses before you can get your motorcycle permit, license, or endorsement and even reward you with license fee waivers. You might even get a motorcycle insurance discount for taking a motorcycle safety course.
Perhaps the most universally used motorcycle safety courses are those from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF). The MSF offers a variety of both online and hands-on courses for beginners just starting out on their bikes to advanced motorcyclists who want to sharpen their skills and mingle with other riders.
Motorcycle safety courses teach you about a variety of topics related to motorcycle riding skills such as information about:
- Getting your motorcycle license.
- Purchasing motorcycle insurance, including personal injury protection.
- Wearing motorcycle safety gear (check “Wear Motorcycle Safety Gear,” below).
- Riding individually and with groups.
- Your bike’s mechanics.
- How alcohol and substance abuse affect your riding.
- Riding at night.
- Increasing your and your bike’s visibility.
Remember, these are just a few of the topics a good motorcycle safety course will cover. Check with your local motor vehicle department for more information about motorcycle safety courses.
Wear Motorcycle Safety Gear
Now that you’re ready to get out on the road…wait! First, you have to gear up.
Some of the most common pieces of motorcycle safety gear include:
- Helmets.
- Goggles or other eye protection.
- Gloves.
- Boots.
- Leather or denim jackets and pants.
- Rain gear.
- Hearing protection.
Some states require helmets. Check your state’s helmet laws or motorcycle driver handbook for details.
Involved in a Motorcycle Accident? Get Legal Help Today
Have you or someone you know been involved in a motorcycle accident in the Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, or Port St. Lucie area? Did it result in personal or bodily injury? Getting help as soon as possible is the only way to give you the best shot at your personal injury lawsuit.
Contact the law offices of Fetterman & Associates, PA at 561-845-2510 or online today. You’ll receive a free consultation regarding your accident and the next steps to take to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.