When the open road calls, motorcyclists are sure to answer. You put on your helmet and ride, being cautious as you go. You know that to stay safe while riding a motorcycle, you must concentrate and be aware of the other vehicles around you. Yet, if you often ride with others, you may not have considered the unique risks of riding alone.
The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration estimates that motorcycle riders are approximately eight times more likely than car drivers to be hurt in an accident and 35 times more likely to be killed in one. Those are sobering statistics. However, with some careful planning, you can safely enjoy your solo rides.
Tips for staying safer while riding solo
The following are some things you can do to better ensure that you are safe while riding your motorcycle alone:
- Choose a destination and let someone know where you are going. While riding wherever the road leads is tempting and adventurous, it can also be dangerous if no one knows your location.
- Use caution when “taking a corner.” When you travel in a group, you usually follow someone who anticipates the dangers that traveling around a corner too quickly can present. When you ride alone, you must always exercise caution when negotiating potentially dangerous corners, especially when traffic is heavy.
- Keep a note in your wallet outlining your wishes for anyone who might come across you when you’ve had an accident. Print off a little sheet of paper with your emergency contact, medical issues and any other pertinent information on it. Title it “In The Event Of A Crash” and keep it inside your wallet, close to your license.
If you are involved in an accident, accept assistance from paramedics and let them to take you to the hospital so a doctor can examine your injuries. Then seek assistance with recovering the cost of your medical bills and damages.