Motorcycle Season is Here: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe
With spring in full force, motorcyclists across the country are gearing up for another riding season. Safety equipment, including Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS) helmets, adaptive headlights, motorcycle airbags, and abrasion-resistant protective gear can provide additional protection while you cruise the open roads. Ahead of your first ride of the season, learn about safety equipment and refresh your knowledge of best practices to help keep the roads safe for everyone.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. The annual initiative encourages riders to review safe riding practices that can reduce the number of motorcycle accidents on the road. In 2022, 209 people were killed in motorcycle related crashes in Ohio. While all drivers have safety responsibilities on the road, you can do your part in preventing potentially fatal motorcycle accidents by investing in appropriate safety equipment, protective gear, and practicing defensive driving.
MIPS Helmet
In recent years, motorcycle helmets have advanced in safety technology. For example, MIPS helmets are specifically designed to minimize rotational motion during impact, which can reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries. Some newer helmets also feature built-in communication systems that allow riders to stay in touch with fellow riders while on the road.
Although Ohio’s laws only require novice riders and riders under 18 years old to wear a helmet, riders wearing full-faced helmets have a higher chance of surviving serious crashes.
Adaptive Headlights
Many accidents are a result of the other vehicle driver not seeing the motorcycle. Motorcycle riders should make sure they are always visible, and having adaptive headlights on is one way to ensure this. Adaptive headlights adjust to the rider's movements, increasing the rider's overall visibility to other drivers on the road.
Motorcycle Airbags
Another safety technology that has gained popularity is motorcycle airbag systems, which can be worn as a vest or jacket. In the case of a crash, the airbag system inflates and provides additional protection to the rider's chest and back.
Abrasion-Resistant Protective Gear
You should always make sure they have proper fitting protective gear, including jacket, pants, boots, and gloves. Recently, many companies make this gear in abrasion-resistant fabric, which provides additional protection to your shoulders, spine, and joints in case of crashes or injury.
Pre-Ride Check
Before heading out on your ride, do a thorough pre-ride check, including checking the tires, fluids, cables, lights, and electronics to look for any defects or wear and tear. If anything on your bike feels uncomfortable, you should avoid riding it until you fix the issue.
If you ride infrequently, consider taking a motorcycle road safety course. These courses cover everything from basic riding practices to advanced maneuvers that can help you develop the skills and confidence needed to stay safe on the road. Going for practice runs on quiet roads or empty parking lots before hitting the open road can also help you to re-familiarize yourself with your bike and its features.
If you are carrying a passenger, make sure that your bike has a separate factory-installed seat and footrests for them. The passenger should ideally have abrasion-resistant protective gear as well.
What to Do if You’re in a Motorcycle Accident
Despite taking safety precautions and riding with best practices, accidents can happen, and fault can be hard to prove. If you or a loved one has been injured while riding due to someone else's negligence, it is important to hire a personal injury attorney who is experienced in motorcycle accidents.
Our experienced attorneys at Diehl & Hubbell have assisted clients from Lebanon, Hamilton, Hillsboro, Wilmington, Springboro and throughout southwest Ohio for over 30 years. We can help you fully investigate the accident, build a strong case, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Call or visit us online to learn more.