Motorcycle safety depends on other drivers too

If you’re one of many motorcycle enthusiasts in New Jersey, you likely get excited any time you have a day off and the sun is shining. In fact, you might start thinking about getting out on the open road midway through your work week. Whether you usually travel alone or with a group of friends, taking a road trip might be one of your favorite things to do.

Perhaps you’ve also joined the ranks of those who commute to and from work by motorcycle. It can help you save on gas money, especially if your travel distance to work isn’t that far from your home. When you head out on the road, you’re definitely at risk for injury; however, practicing safety tips and adhering to all traffic laws can help you arrive at your destination without incident, unless, of course, a nearby motorist causes a collision.

Know the laws in the states where you ride

Traffic laws vary by state, so it’s critical that you know the motorcycle laws in each state you travel. In New Jersey, you must wear a properly fitted helmet that the Department of Transportation has approved. Even if you ride in a state that doesn’t require helmets, if you want to stay as safe as possible, it’s always best to wear one.

Not the time for shorts and flip flops

Traveling by motorcycle exposes your body to the open air. That’s why it’s always a good idea to wear protective clothing when riding your bike. Such clothing includes boots with non-skid soles, long sleeves, long pants and, preferably, gloves and clothing made of leather.

Be visible to other drivers

Especially if you ride at night, it’s important to make sure other drivers can easily see you on the road. A lot of leather clothing is black. To improve visibility, many motorcyclists wear reflective adhesive strips that they have attached to their backs or sleeves. Maintaining proper position in your riding lane is also crucial to making sure other drivers can see you.

Make sure you follow the rules

Motorcycles are a lot smaller than most other vehicles. This means you might be able to fit in between two cars or make a quick lane change that a car or truck would not be able to do. Being able to do something, however, doesn’t mean you should do it. Unsafe lane changes and otherwise disregarding traffic laws places you and all other travelers nearby at great risk for collision and injury.

If a collision occurs

You can’t control another driver’s behavior at the wheel. No matter how cautious, alert and skilled you are when traveling by motorcycle, if another motorist is negligent or reckless, disaster can suddenly occur. Sadly, many motorcycle accidents are fatal.

If you survive a crash, you’re likely to have severe, even life-threatening injuries that necessitate weeks or months of recovery time. Recovery care is expensive, which is why many accident victims seek financial recovery for their losses.