Traveling in a car is fun. But do you know what is more exciting? A motorcycle road trip! While a road trip in a vehicle is stale and common, a motorcycle trip screams unique. Not just that, it is super-exciting as well.
Unlike a car trip which is often spent inside a moving metal box, a motorcycle trip allows you to feel the breeze on your face while feeding your eyes with surrounding features. Of course, it is exciting, but it can also be dangerous. Here are some safety measures to consider when embarking on a motorcycle trip.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are common and deadly. Like auto accidents, these accidents are a result of several factors. While planning on a road trip, ensure you take note of these factors and adopt the necessary means to avoid them.
Let’s begin with the first major cause of motorcycle accidents.
1. Inexperience
The chances of a professional motorcyclist getting involved in a motorcycle accident are slim, while novices are often vulnerable to accidents due to their inexperience. Before embarking on a motorcycle trip, ensure you spend lots of hours in training. You must learn how to:
- Operate your motorcycle effectively
- Gauge conditions
- Respond to situations quickly
People often start riding a motorcycle on the road even without adequate training and preparation. According to the NHTSA, in 2017, 29% of all motorcycle casualties involved rides without a valid motorcycle license. Their sheer inexperience can result in motorcycle accidents, leaving them and other people badly injured.
It’s important you don’t assume other drivers see your motorcycle and be prepared to react on the road. You do not want to find yourself in a position where your road trip results in family needing to call Chicago Wrongful Death Attorneys.
2. Alcohol
Alcohol is one of the greatest causes of auto and motorcycle accidents. Due to the intoxicating nature of alcohol, motorcyclists under the influence often find it hard to make correct judgments on and off the road. Of course, the result of such can make an intoxicated driver make wrong moves or mistakes, which could lead to an accident.
According to statistics, nearly 40% of all single-vehicle motorcycle casualties involved alcohol in 2018. Plus, 26% of multiple-vehicle crash casualties included motorcyclists with a blood alcohol concentration over .08, the legal limit, in 2018. Ensure you steer clear of alcohol before going on a motorcycle trip.
3. Left-Hand Turns
In fatality cases involving a motorcycle and other types of vehicle, a staggering 42% involved the other vehicle making left turns while the motorcyclist was busy:
- Passing
- Overtaking another car
- Traveling straight ahead
Since motorcycles are small (compared to vehicles), they are often harder to see early. Many drivers don’t scan their environment for motorcyclists before making left turns at an intersection. On a bad day, such a mistake can result in an accident.
4. Over-speeding
In a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, 33% of motorcyclists involved in deadly accidents were speeding. This is higher than the percentage of car drivers, 19%, light truck drivers at 15%, and truck drivers at 7%.
An excessive speeding rate can mean two things. First off, it can mean traveling more than the designated speed limits. Secondly, it can mean traveling too fast. When you step on the gas, you increase your chances of getting involved in an accident.
5. Lack of concentration
Riding a vehicle, bicycle, motorcycle or anything that moves on a busy road involves 100% attention. Once your attention is diverted from the road—even for a split second—you increase your chances of hitting something or someone. Ensure you kill all means of distraction and focus solely on the road while on a motorcycle trip. If there is something urgent you must do, park in a safe area first before attending to it.
Consider these Tips when Embarking on a Long- Distance Motorcycle Ride
1. Be conscious of fatigue.
Riding a motorcycle for two hours is nothing like steering the wheels of a car for two hours. When riding a bike, the chances of burning out is higher than when driving a car. Research indicates that riding a bike is more tiring than driving a car. Thus, when you embark on a long trip, understand that you’ll tire sooner than you would while driving a vehicle.
Of course, you can overcome fatigue by making solid plans and preparations. Ensure you sleep well before planning a long trip on a bike. Plus, take breaks at intervals, so you can relax.
2. Take practice rides
The road can seem unending when you are on a long trip. Five hours on a bike can be a piece of cake for a professional road tripper. However, if your former record is two hours, you may find it hard to embark on a long trip of six hours. That shouldn’t make you fret, anyway. With some bike practice you can get used to long-distance riding.
Practice runs will help you understand the benefits of getting comfortable in your seat. As soon as you are on the road and moving at high speed, you don’t have the luxury to alter your position as you would when sitting in a chair or a car seat.
The seat on your bike may not be ideal for long trips. If that is the case, consider changing it to something more comfortable. Furthermore, you can consider modifying your handlebars and adding a backrest and footpegs to reduce the chances of achy back and rigid limbs.
3. Drive safely
Motorcycle road trips are often fascinating, and their accidents are fatal. To ensure that you reach your destination safely without any injury, drive safely. Quell the urge to overtake a fellow motorcycle and watch out for traffic signs.
Also, as a safety measure, always wear your helmet to protect your head. If unfortunately, you end up in an accident, you will need motorcycle accident attorney services to handle the issue. A motorcycle accident lawyer will answer your questions, conduct an independent investigation to determine who is at fault and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
4. Invest in a quality windshield
Do you have a windshield? If you don’t, ensure you install one. Road trips are often accompanied by high wind, which often feels cozy on your skin. However, imagine being pelted with a waft of strong breeze for several hours; you may get tired quickly. With a quality windshield, you won’t have to worry about the strong wind blowing against your face. The windshield will blackout winds while ensuring that you continue your journey without discomfort.
5. Take breaks
Riding a bike for several hours can leave you feeling weak and exhausted. Rather than fall asleep on the hand clutch, or wobble while driving, consider taking many breaks. Do little exercises to relieve your already tired muscles and drink water to stay hydrated. Most importantly, know your limits. If your limit is 60 miles, take a break every 60 miles. It is for your good.
6. Inspect your bike
First things first. Before you begin your motorcycle road trip, ensure that your bike is in good shape. Conduct a thorough check-up on your motorcycle to validate its roadworthiness. You can also go ahead and service it before leaving, Change its fluids, bulbs and tires, calibrate its valves, clean its fuel system, ensure that its electrical system is functional, etc.
7. Protect your eyes
Traveling on a motorcycle means your eyes will be exposed to lots of winds, sunrays, debris, and other airborne elements. Ensure you protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles. Leaving your eyes can make it watery, hindering your sight.
Conclusion
Safety is important when embarking on a motorcycle trip, especially involving spending long hours on the road. Ensure you inspect your bike before starting your journey and stick to all safety measures mentioned above. If you do all these, nothing will stop you from enjoying your road trip.
