TMCnet News
GEICO says safety is the name of the game this motorcycle seasonMay is Motorcycle Safety Month and GEICO is committed to reinforcing good driving habits and promoting motorcycle safety for riders and their bikes. The following safety tips will help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time this motorcycle season. Always wear a helmet A motorcycle helmet is a rider's best friend and the most important piece of safety equipment to protect against a critical head injury. In many states, it is also the law. Make sure your helmet is DOT-approved and includes a face shield or protective eyewear to help reduce wind noise and deflect debris that flies through the air. Wear protective clothing Leather goes a long way to help protect motorcycle riders in case of an accident. Leather jackets, gloves, pants and boots offer good protection from road scrapes and minimizes severe injuries. Reflective clothing will also make it easier for other drivers to see you especially at night. Take a motorcycle safety course Hone and sharpen your riding skills with a formal motorcycle safety course. Courses such as the MSF Basic riding course is one of the best ways to learn the basics of operating a motorcycle and making wise judgments when riding. Some insurance companies offer participants a discount for completion of a course. Check your bike Proper motorcycle maintenance is just as important as practicing safe riding. Inspect the tires for air and make sure the lights are in good working condition. Also periodically check and test the clutch and throttle, brake fluid, controls and adjust the mirrors. Follow the rules of the road Speed limits and local traffic laws are there to keep riders safe at all times. Remember to obey the rules of the road and always pass vehicles on the passing lane. Give yourself enough time to brake. Ride defensively Many motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver violating a rider's right of way. Ride with your headlights on at all times and signal well in advance of any change in direction. Always watch for turning vehicles and be extra careful in inclement weather. Stay out of blind spots It's difficult for drivers to see a motorcycle so riding in a vehicle's blind spot is a dangerous proposition. Position your motorcycle in the lane behind a car so that you can be seen at all times. Watch for road hazards Potholes, train tracks, oil slicks and roadway debris can cause problems for the most experienced rider. Stay alert and avoid possible road hazards. Don't drink and ride It's illegal to operate a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol affects judgment, vision and decreases your ability to ride and react defensively. Under any circumstances, you should never drink and ride a motorcycle.
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