The last days of being able to whip down the street on your motorcycle are coming to an end, but that does not mean you can let safety slide. While you cannot make other drivers pay more attention or drive safer around you, you can do your part to keep yourself as safe as possible on West Virginia roads. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration explains that motorcycle riders make up a high percentage of the overall number of traffic accident fatalities. To stay safe, you have to be a defensive driver who thinks safety first.
There are three things you should always do when riding your motorcycle. The first is to wear a helmet. Not only is it required by law that you wear a helmet but it also can save your life. Helmets provide much-needed protection between your head and the road or other obstacles that you could hit during an accident.
The next thing to do is to only ride when you are alert and fully focused. This means never drive when drunk or under the influence of drugs or medication. You need to be able to focus completely on the road and those around you to stay safe. Any type of intoxication or altered state can put you at serious risk for an accident.
Lastly, wear bright colors. Many bikers wear leather, which is naturally dark because it protects the body during a ride and can offer some protection in an accident. However, because it is dark, it makes you less visible to vehicles. It is much better to get brightly colored gear and wear that. There are many options on the market that can offer the same protections as leather but that come in bright colors.
This information is for education only and is not legal advice.