The road can be a very dangerous place. Whether it is because of reckless driving, bad weather, or simply bad road works; accidents can happen at any time.
It is best to always be safe, secure and aware of your surroundings – as ultimately it is up to the driver to do what he or she can to avoid such accidents from happening.
Here are some tips for preventing such accidents from happening.
Wear Protective Gear
Needless to say, – always wear appropriate protective gear. It is illegal to drive around without a helmet, but always be sure that your helmet is safe and strong. Other than this, always try and wear a strong pair of gloves, boots, a leather jacket and pants.
Unfortunately, accidents happen even if you are attentive and safe; so what you can do is prevent further injuries from happening – such as scraping your hands, knees, legs etc.
Wearing strong clothing over your outfit will prevent such injuries from happening. After your journey has ended, you can always lock up the protective gear in the motorcycle top-box..
Motorcycle Maintenance
Always keep your bike in proper working conditions and under no circumstances should you to operate a faulty vehicle – you might regret it during one of your bike rides.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated, check your headlamps and make sure other essential components are running smoothly.
A weekly inspection of your bike will help to keep you up-to-date with your motorbike and its condition.
Be Seen by Other People on the Road
Accidents happen for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common reasons is that the other driver did not see you driving. This can easily be rectified with a few changes to yourself and your bike.
During the night, try and wear some form of reflective and bright clothing – which, if the light is shone on, will reflect back.
A general ironmonger will surely have vests with such reflective capabilities.
Other than that, you can also equip your bike with reflective stickers or tape.
These stickers will surely be beneficial during the night because every car around you will be aware of your presence.
Never Drink and Drive
This should go without saying, but people still recklessly drink and drive. If you are planning to drink, do not take your motorbike – or car for that matter.
Make sure you take enough money to catch a taxi or have someone pick you up.
Avoid Hazardous Roads
If you know your route well and know that some roads might not be good quality, make sure you avoid them!
Besides accidents, you may also have to deal with a punctured tire, which is always a hassle, especially if you’re in a hurry or in bad weather. Plan your route wisely and make sure to avoid any roads with an excessive number of potholes.
Not all motorcycles have the same level of control or ability to safely navigate through uncatered roads as other vehicles so always be sure to plan your route.
Check the Weather Conditions
Weather conditions are essential for a smooth ride. Especially in winter, the weather can change in the blink of an eye, and you do not want to get caught in the middle of a storm outside on your bike.
Even if you drive well, someone will be more susceptible to crash due to the slippery roads.
Roads which are in poor conditions are the worst because potholes will fill up with water and you will never know what you are driving into, so always be on guard.
If you know the weather is going to change for the worst be safe, stay inside or catch a lift with someone.
Final Words
Driving a motorcycle can be one of the most thrilling experiences one can have, but never forget that safety comes first.
You will never enjoy anything if you do not take the necessary precautions before driving your bike, wearing the right gear, being attentive of the road, weather and most importantly to never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
When driving you must always be attentive to your driving and other people’s driving, so always be on the lookout for how other people are driving on the road. Never take anything for granted because you might be taken off guard.
If you want peace of mind that whatever happens your motorcycle will remain safe, GasanMamo has a motor insurance policy that will surely put your mind at ease. Always be aware, and always be prepared!
GasanMamo Insurance Limited is authorised under the Insurance Business Act and regulated by the MFSA