Choosing the Right Motorcycle for Safety
Michael Babboni
Motorcycle Accidents
If you are a new rider or even a seasoned one, it is important to take the time to choose the right motorcycle for you as a way to protect yourself and remain safe while on the road. While you may have visions of the perfect bike already ingrained in your mind, is it really the best fit for you and your lifestyle?Motorcycles do not protect you as well as other automobiles do. Therefore, you must take extra precautions to ensure your safety and keep these precautions in mind when you set out choosing your motorcycle.
Understanding Basic Motorcycle Safety
Did you know that approximately 90% of new riders that were involved in motorcycle accidents didn't actually take any specialized course or receive any training? If you choose a motorcycle, you need to take the time to learn the basic safety rules and guidelines including what equipment you should be using and how you can ride the bike safely and avoid collisions.
For example, helmets are not required by law in every state, but they should not be ignored. A helmet should always be worn when riding a motorcycle. Choose on that fits snugly and is federally approved.
You will also want to have some kind of eye and face protection that is made from a shatterproof plastic to keep any debris or other flying objects out of your eyes and from impairing your vision while riding.
Other gear you should have includes a jacket, gloves, boots, and pants. Make sure that the material you choose is breathable and covers your skin which can help significantly if you do have any kind of collision or fall.
Choosing a Motorcycle
If you are a beginner, then you want to find a bike with either a single or twin cylinder engine. If you are still learning, then you should also consider maneuverability, the size, and structure of the bike, as well as the overall weight of the bike. A heavier bike offers the beginner a bit more stability and can help prevent falls.
Florida Motorcycle Law
In Florida, you can operate a motorcycle over the age of 21 without having to wear protective headgear. If you are under 21 then by law, you are required to wear a helmet that meets the Federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard.
Another exception to the helmet law is if you have an insurance policy with a minimum of $10,000 in medical benefits. If you have this, then you do not have to wear a helmet.
All new riders in Florida, regardless of their age, are also required to pass the Basic Rider Course that is offered by the Florida Rider Training Program.
What to Do Following a Motorcycle Accident
The majority of accidents involving motorcycles are actually caused by other drivers and their inattentive and distracted driving. Motorcycles are also much smaller than automobiles which makes them harder to spot and puts the riders at increased risk for a collision.
If you have been involved in an accident, it is important that you remain calm. Just like with any other accident, you want to follow the proper steps to ensure that everything is handled correctly. Notify the authorities, collect whatever evidence you can, and report the collision to the insurance company.
You may also choose to contact an attorney following the accident. Doing so can prove helpful during the claims process. They can guide you through the process and make sure that you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damage sustained due to the accident.