Defensive Riding: Tips for Motorcycle Safety on Unfamiliar Roads
Do you love to explore new places on your motorcycle? Riding a bike can be one of the most exhilarating experiences on the road. The feeling of the wind in your face and the freedom to explore new places is unmatched.
However, as a rider, you must always prioritize safety. This is especially true when riding on unfamiliar roads, where you may need to learn the terrain, traffic patterns, or potential hazards.
Be Prepared
Preparing for a motorcycle trip requires some planning and organization to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Before hitting the road, it's essential to make sure you and your motorcycle are ready for the journey. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your motorcycle trip:
Wear Appropriate Gear
When riding on unfamiliar roads, be sure to wear proper protective gear. This includes a helmet, gloves, a jacket, boots, and pants made from abrasion-resistant materials.
It's also a good idea to wear high-vis reflective gear to make yourself more visible to other drivers, especially at night.
Check Your Motorcycle
Before setting out on your motorcycle, here are a few things to check:
Check your motorcycle's tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels.
Ensure your lights work correctly and your horn is loud enough to alert other drivers.
If you notice any issues, address them before starting your journey.
Research the Road
Next, take some time to research the road you will be riding on.
Look for any potential hazards, such as sharp turns, blind corners, or construction zones.
Check the weather forecast to avoid riding in adverse weather conditions.
Use a GPS
A GPS or navigation system can be helpful when riding on unfamiliar roads. It can help you stay on course and avoid getting lost.
However, remember to keep your focus on the road and not get distracted by the device.
Be Defensive
Defensive riding means always being aware of your surroundings and anticipating potential hazards. The most vital lesson you will ever learn as a motorcyclist is how to ride defensively.
Practicing and appreciating defensive riding is key to operating a motorcycle safely on public roads. Here are some tips for being a defensive rider:
Keep Your Distance
Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. This will give you enough time to react if something unexpected happens.
Avoid riding in another vehicle's blind spot, and use your mirrors frequently to stay aware of your surroundings.
Watch for Hazards
When riding on unfamiliar roads, there may be hazards you're not used to. Watch for potholes, gravel, or debris on the road, and adjust your speed accordingly.
Also, watch for wildlife, such as deer or elk, that may cross the road unexpectedly.
Stay Calm and Focused
When riding on unfamiliar roads, it's easy to get distracted by the scenery or other riders. However, staying focused on the road and anticipating potential hazards is essential. Avoid using your phone or other devices while riding; always keep both hands on the handlebars.
You also want to avoid panicking if you miss a turn. Your GPS should update automatically, and you can turn it off at the next exit and turn around. Panicking, fast-switching lanes, and fumbling with your GPS creates a hazard for yourself and other travelers.
What if You Get into a Bike Accident While Traveling?
If you are in an accident while traveling unfamiliar roads, stay calm. The steps to follow are almost identical to the ones you would take in your home state.
Check for Injuries. The first thing you should do is check yourself and anyone else involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Move to a Safe Area. If possible, move your motorcycle to the side of the road to avoid causing further accidents. If you cannot move your bike, turn on your hazard lights and stand a safe distance away from the motorcycle.
Exchange Information. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information. Also, get the names and contact information of any witnesses and the officers on the scene. Be careful not to apologize or admit fault.
Document the Scene. Take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to the motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and any injuries sustained. This can help your insurance claim and legal case later on.
Contact Your Insurance Company. Contact your insurance ASAP to report the accident. Provide them with all the information you collected at the scene.
Seek Medical Attention. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention after a motorcycle accident is essential. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Keep all medical records and bills related to the accident.
Contact a Local Motorcycle Accident Lawyer. If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. They can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. A lawyer local to the accident will have easier access to evidence and records. They will also be familiar with local laws and regulations, especially if you crash out of state.
Have a Plan
No one wants to wreck their bike. And some bikers tend to think they are immortal. But the truth is motorcycles account for a disturbingly high percentage of road injuries and fatalities in the US. In 2020 alone, over 5,500 bikers died.
Motorcycle riders have a higher chance to stay in control and avoid being surprised when using defensive riding techniques. It is all about paying attention, anticipating what can happen, and making plans; with these techniques, riders can increase their chances of staying safe. Of course, there are more advantages than safety. Riders who ride defensively save more fuel and experience less tire and brake wear.
An accident can happen anywhere, at any time— and to anyone. It's best to drive defensively, take precautions, and be prepared in case you are involved in a crash. Ensure you have a contingency plan and emergency fund if you find yourself stranded on your trip.
