Top 10 Motorcycle Safety Tips

Motorcycle safety is everyone’s responsibility. There are more than 672,000 motorcycles in Canada registered for use, and the riders are 15 times more likely to be involved in an accident compared to automobile drivers.

Here are some key components motorcyclists should know before taking to the road:

1. Take professional riding lessons
Before going for a ride on your new bike, take lessons so that you can be prepared, and safe, for anything that may come your way.

2. Wear an Approved Helmet
Most accidents happen at speeds around 50km/h, and helmets protect you. Make sure to replace your helmet if it has already been in a crash, or if it has been more than 5 years.

3. Wear Highly Visible Clothing
Yellow, oranges, and safety vests are visible colours so the cars can make out where the cyclist is. This is especially important at dawn, dusk, or night.

4. Communicate with Driver’s
Communicate with the drivers through hand signalling to indicate your intentions, and eye contact to ensure that the driver has seen you.

5. Keep your Distance
Keep an adequate space cushion when following, being followed, passing, and being passed.

6. Scan the Road
Scan the road to avoid hazards. You should always be looking 10-15 seconds ahead of where you’re going to be prepared for what’s coming.

7. Limit the Distance of your Trip
If going on long trips, don’t over do it. Take breaks, rest, fuel your body for the safety of you, and others.

8. Ride Defensively and Remain Alert
Don’t assume anyone has seen you, or will give you the right of way. Ride defensively, put yourself first. Be awake and alert.

9. Watch your Speed
Going over the speed limit is not only illegal, it’s lethal. About half of all single motorcycle accidents are caused by alcohol, or speeding.

10. First Response
Knowing how to administer first response medical assistance can be vital to saving someone’s life, as well as your own. There are lot’s of programs in place that teach motorcycle riders first response.

CLG Injury Law has over 35 years of experience advocating for clients who have suffered injuries following a motor vehicle accident. With 5 locations serving NB, NS, and PEI, contact Cantini Law for a free consultation at 1-800-606-2529.