Motorcycle Road Trip Tips
Are you planning a motorcycle road trip for this summer? Although a motorcycle road trip can be a lot of fun, many potential dangers may await you. Consider the following motorcycle safety tips to make sure you are properly prepared for any situation!
Dress Appropriately
One of the most important things you can do when planning for a road trip on your motorcycle is to dress appropriately. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than other vehicle occupants. Wearing the right gear can significantly decrease the likelihood of experiencing a serious injury in case of an accident.
Always wear your helmet while riding. Should you be in a motorcycle accident, a helmet can reduce the risk of death by 37%. Other important gear includes a jacket, pants, boots, and gloves. Contrary to popular belief, denim does not offer nearly enough protection. When it comes to motorcycle gear, carbon fiber offers the best protection. Other aspects to consider include ventilation and visibility. In the end, you want to be both safe and comfortable.
Pack Properly
First and foremost, pack light. When road tripping via a motorcycle, the less luggage you have, the better. Second, make sure to pack using the right gear. Saddlebags are great for road trips as they can be easily attached to the sides or back seat of the bike. Remember to adjust your motorcycle’s suspension and tire pressure to account for the additional weight. Keep the bags close to the center of gravity and try to keep the weight evenly distributed on either side.
Stay Hydrated
During the warmer months, and especially while wearing carbon fiber motorcycle gear, overheating can happen quickly. Make sure to regularly stop for water breaks. If stopping for water breaks seems like an annoyance to you, then you might want to consider a hydration pack. These backpack-style water bottles are worn on your back and have a hose for you to drink water from without requiring you to pull over. Hydration is incredibly important on long road trips. Dehydration can result in headaches, dizziness, or sleepiness, creating a dangerous situation if you are driving.
Take Breaks
Road trips should be fun – not frustrating or painful. Riding on a motorcycle for hours on end can cause saddle sores. If you don’t take enough breaks, you could end up in unnecessary pain. Take breaks to refuel your tank, drink water, stretch your body, or rest your eyes. It’s better to take your road trip slow and steady than to end up frustrated and not feeling well.
Prepare for Unexpected Weather
Despite today’s technology, weather can still catch us off guard sometimes. Make sure you prepare for any number of weather conditions including high temperatures, low temperatures, and rain. Invest in weather-specific gear to stay dry, warm, or cool, and pack plenty of plastic bags to protect your luggage from the elements.
At Rob Levine & Associates, our top priority is encouraging safe practices and advocating for those who have been injured by another’s negligence. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident at the hands of another, contact our team today to get the justice you deserve.
