February is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and with spring approaching and riding season soon to be upon us here in Missouri, it’s the perfect time to review safe riding practices. At Sticklen & Sticklen, we are dedicated to helping keep our community safe, and that includes those who choose to travel on two wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycling, these tips can help ensure you have an enjoyable and safe riding experience.
Motorcycle Accident Prevention in Missouri: Gear Up for Safety
Before you hit the road, make sure you have the right gear to protect yourself in case of an accident. Missouri law requires all riders under 26 years old and those with instruction permits, regardless of age, to wear a helmet. While helmets are not legally required for all riders, they are the single most important piece of safety equipment you can have. A good helmet that fits snugly and has a DOT label can significantly reduce the risk of head injury in a crash.
In addition to a helmet, consider wearing other protective gear such as eye protection, gloves, a jacket and pants, and boots. Sunglasses or a helmet visor can protect your eyes from wind, debris, and insects, which can be particularly distracting at high speeds. Full-fingered gloves provide a better grip and protect your hands in a fall. They also offer protection from the elements, such as cold or excessive sun exposure. Long sleeves and pants protect against sunburn, road rash, and windburn. Choose light colors or reflective gear to increase your visibility to other drivers. Consider specialized riding jackets and pants with built-in armor for added protection in a crash. Sturdy boots that cover your ankles provide support and protection for your feet. Avoid wearing sandals or other open-toe shoes that offer little protection in an accident.
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: Be Visible and Aware on Missouri Roads
Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, making them harder for drivers to see. To increase your visibility, always ride with your headlights on, even during the day. This makes you more noticeable to other drivers, especially in situations where there is glare or shadows. Avoid riding in a car’s blind spot. If you can’t see the driver’s face in their side mirror, they likely can’t see you. Use your turn signals clearly and in advance to let other drivers know what you’re doing. This gives them time to react and adjust their driving accordingly.
In addition to being visible, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. This includes scanning the road ahead for obstacles, potholes, and other road hazards. These can be more dangerous for motorcycles than for cars, potentially causing loss of control or even a crash. Be aware of the traffic around you and know where other vehicles are and anticipate their movements. Be prepared for drivers who may not see you or who may make sudden turns or lane changes. This means being ready to react quickly and defensively to avoid a collision.
Ride Defensively and Responsibly in Joplin and Columbia, MO
Defensive driving is essential for all motorcyclists. This means obeying traffic laws, maintaining a safe following distance, riding within your abilities, and avoiding distractions. These laws are in place to keep everyone safe, and motorcyclists are not exempt. Give yourself enough space to react to unexpected situations. The recommended following distance for motorcycles is greater than for cars due to their increased vulnerability. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a 3-4 second following distance. Don’t ride beyond your skill level or the limits of your motorcycle. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to mistakes and accidents. Gradually increase your skills and experience over time. Keep your focus on the road and avoid using your phone or other devices while riding. Distracted riding is a major cause of motorcycle accidents.
Riding responsibly also means never riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol significantly impairs your ability to operate a motorcycle safely. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect your judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing the risk of an accident.
At Sticklen & Sticklen, we are committed to protecting the rights and well-being of motorcyclists. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our experienced team today. We can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.