Riding on the Interstate - Motorcycle Safety Tips
Riding a motorcycle on the interstate can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Gear Up:
Always wear proper protective gear, including a helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, and boots, to also have rain gear on board. Proper gear offers both protection and comfort to make a big difference on long rides. Invest in high-quality protective gear, including a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, jacket, pants, and boots. Full gear can significantly reduce your chances of an accident.
2. Pre-Ride Inspection:
Make sure your motorcycle is in good condition. Conduct a thorough pre-ride inspection of your motorcycle. Check the tires for proper tread and air pressure, oil levels, brake functionality, your battery and lights to ensure everything is in proper working order for the safest ride ahead.
3. Stay Visible:
Wear bright or reflective clothing. This is true both during the day and at night time. Consider using a high-visibility vest. Whether riding solo or in a group ride, the bright vest increases your safety.
4. Use Signals Early:
Signal your intentions well in advance of any lane changes or turns. Motorcycles can be less visible to drivers, so clear signaling helps communicate your movements. Consider using your signal in combination with hand signals, as both get other driver’s attention and make you a safer rider.
5. Keep a Safe Distance:
Maintain a safe following distance from vehicles ahead of you. This gives you more time to react if something unexpected happens. Maintain a safe following distance ahead gives yourself enough time to react to sudden stops or emergencies. Keeping a safe distance always applies; and especially more so during inclement weather such as foggy, raining or other difficult traffic conditions.
6. Stay Focused & Take Rest Breaks:
Keep your attention on the road and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like mobile phones or adjusting your music while riding. Remember the importance of “rest stops” to re-fuel, re-hydrate, and re-charge. This helps prevent fatigue and keeps you alert during your ride.
7. Watch for Road Hazards & Constructions Zones:
Interstate roads can have debris, potholes, and other hazards. Keep an eye out for these and try to avoid them when possible. With construction zones, there might not always be a shoulder, as sometimes construction barriers leave no shoulder at all, which can be especially problematic if you have fuel, mechanical or weather issues, making it difficult to pull over.
8. Maintain Speed and Control:
Ride at a speed that is comfortable and safe for you. The interstate can have varying speeds, so adjust accordingly. Ride at a speed that suits the current road and traffic conditions. Be cautious in adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic and adjust your speed to maintain control.
9. Be Prepared for Weather:
Check the forecast before your ride and prepare for any conditions you might encounter, like rain, thunderstorms or strong winds. Before the start of any ride, consider yourself as a good pilot who checks the route in advance, knowing the weather in advance so you are the most prepared.
10. Use Defensive Riding Techniques:
Always assume other drivers may not see you. Maintain a safe distance from vehicles, especially large trucks, and be prepared for sudden lane changes by other drivers.
Enjoy the ride and stay safe out there!
By following these tips, you can enhance your safety and enjoyment while riding on the interstate.
Brad Souders, a lifetime biker, an award-winning attorney with more than 30 years’ experience – A Biker Representing Bikers!
Attorney Brad Souders has a main office in Tampa, representing injured bikers and their families throughout the state of Florida.
Free Initial Consultations, also offering home, hospital & evening or weekend appointments. Simply call Brad's cell phone at 813-220-7767.