17 Things Safe Motorcyclists Never Do

Being a motorcyclist can be one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. It’s great to be able to explore the world around you from the vantage of a motorcycle that will take you anywhere fast.

However, it is also fair to say that being a motorcyclist can be a scary experience. With so many bad drivers on the roads, and you being so much more vulnerable on a bike, it is not surprising that motorcyclists are more likely to be killed and injured on the road, as road traffic accident lawyers, Dennis Hernandez & Associates, will tell you. That being the case, it is important that you do what you can to mitigate risks, and that means being the safest motorcyclist you can be.

With that in mind, below you will find 17 things that safe motorcyclists never do, so you can avoid making mistakes and stay safe.

1. Never ride under the influence

Operating a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only illegal, but it also significantly increases the risk of an accident and injury. Always make sure you are sober before getting on your motorcycle, and if you are unsure whether you have sobered up enough after a night of partying, then it is always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Never neglect proper safety gear

Helmets, gloves, and protective clothing are essential for protecting yourself in the event of an accident. Make sure your gear is in good condition and fits properly if you want to ensure that, should you end up being knocked off your bike, you stand the best possible chance of only sustaining minor injuries.

3. Never exceed the posted speed limit

Speeding is a major cause of motorcycle accidents. Although it can be tempting to go a little faster, you should always obey posted speed limits and never try to goat a speed that is higher than your motorcycle can safely handle.

4. Never ride without a valid license

In order to legally operate a motorcycle, you must have a valid motorcycle license. Make sure you have the proper training and pass the necessary tests before hitting the road.

5. Never ride in bad weather

Rain, snow, and ice can make it difficult to control your motorcycle and increase the risk of an accident. Only ride in good weather conditions and always check the forecast before heading out.

6. Never ignore traffic laws

Motorcycles must obey the same traffic laws as cars and trucks. Always signal when turning, obey traffic signals and signs, and never weave in and out of traffic; even if it will get you to where you need to be faster, it could also end up getting you into a serious accident, so those few seconds shaved off your journey really are not worth the risk.

7. Never ride on the shoulder or between lanes

Riding on the shoulder or between lanes is illegal and can be extremely dangerous. Always stay in your designated lane and never attempt to pass other vehicles on the shoulder.

8. Never ride without insurance

Motorcycle insurance is required by law in most states. Make sure you have the proper insurance coverage before hitting the road.

9. Never neglect motorcycle maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your motorcycle running properly and safely. Make sure you follow the recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues as soon as they arise, taking your cycle to a trained mechanic whenever you find a fault that you cannot handle yourself.

10. Never ride with a passenger without proper training

Riding with a passenger can be a lot of fun, but it can also be much more difficult than riding alone. Make sure you are properly trained and comfortable riding with a passenger before taking someone with you on your motorcycle.

11. Never ride with a loaded back

Carrying too much weight on your motorcycle can affect its handling and stability. Keep your load light and balanced if you want to be as safe on the road as you can possibly be.

12. Never ride with a distracted mind

Distracted riding is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Staying focused on the road ahead of you and not worrying about your phone or any other distractions is vital for your safety and the safety of other road users.

13. Never assume you are visible to other drivers

Always assume that other drivers cannot see you when you are riding and ride as defensively as possible, signalling what you plan to do at every turn. You may also want to wear bright, reflective clothing when driving at night so that you can be more easily seen.

14. Never ride in unfamiliar areas without proper planning

Before hitting the road on your bike, take some time to plan your route, check for potential hazards, and familiarize yourself with the area. This will help you to stay safe and avoid getting lost.

15. Never ride on unfamiliar motorcycles without proper training

Always make sure you are familiar and comfortable with the motorcycle you are riding. Take a test ride or ask for a demonstration before taking a motorcycle out for a longer ride.

16. Never ride in a group without proper communication

If you are riding in a group, make sure everyone is on the same page and knows the plan for the ride. Use hand signals or radios to communicate and stay together as a group.

17. Never ride without proper fuel

Always check your fuel level before hitting the road, and make sure you have enough to reach your destination. Running out of fuel on a motorcycle can be dangerous and leave you stranded.

As you can see, being a safe motorcycle rider requires more than just riding skills. It requires knowledge, discipline and commitment to safety. By following these simple guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of an accident and ensure that you enjoy your motorcycle for many years to come. Remember, safety should be your top priority every time you get on your bike.