Millions of motorists traverse the country’s roadways when the weather allows. An increasing number of those motorists are seeing the sights while riding motorcycles.
Riding a motorcycle can be an awe-inspiring experience much different from riding inside a car or truck. According to the motorcycle information resource Biker Report, 1.5 million Americans owned a motorcycle in 2018. Even though motorcycle accidents have declined in recent years, a recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, a nonprofit organization representing state highway safety offices, indicates that, when adjusting for miles traveled, motorcycle fatalities occur 28 times more frequently than fatalities involving passenger vehicles. Alcohol and drug impairment, distraction and an aging motorcycle population have contributed to the elevated accident risk among motorcycle riders. However, inexperience also plays a role.
By adhering to certain safety measures, novice riders can avoid various risks and stay safe as they get more acclimated to their motorcycles.
• Get your license. It is essential to ride with a license. In the United States, riders are required to have a motorcycle license or endorsement in addition to a driver’s license to legally ride a motorcycle. Depending on where riders live, a motorcycle safety course may be a prerequisite to getting a license and can help riders improve their skills on a motorcycle.
• Enroll in a safety course. A safety course can teach riders various strategies, including emergency evasive maneuvers. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers courses for riders, who can check to see if any such courses are available in their areas.