Motorcycle Safety: 5 Tips to Ride Responsibly

Written by Utica National Personal Lines Team | Apr 10, 2024 5:42:45 PM

If you’ve ever driven a motorcycle, you know how easy it is to forget the safety risks while you’re out enjoying the ride. But accidents happen, and when you’re on the road – especially on a motorcycle – it’s not just your actions that you have to worry about. It’s critical to be aware of your surroundings and always take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. As we approach the warmer months, be sure to review the motorcycle safety tips below.

Wear a helmet. Although it’s not a federal law to wear a helmet on a motorcycle, most states have requirements around wearing one, as they can be lifesaving. Invest in a quality helmet to ensure your safety.
Make yourself visible. It’s important that you do what you can to make yourself seen while on a motorcycle. This would include driving with your lights on at all times, using reflective strips on your motorcycle and riding gear, and doing your best to stay out of others' blind spots.
Wear proper clothing. Motorcyclists have a reputation for wearing leather – but it’s not just to look tough. Wearing leather or other thick, protective clothing can help to prevent scrapes and burns in the event of a crash. Bright or light-colored clothes are also recommended for increased visibility.
Become an expert on the road. Knowing the rules of the road are critical as a motorcyclist. It’s one thing to forget a turn signal while driving in a larger vehicle, but there’s minimal room for error on a motorcycle. You must be extra cautious and aware of any lane changes, bumps, and potholes. In the event of an emergency, being aware of your surroundings and visualizing an “escape route” on the road is also recommended.
Familiarize yourself with your bike. Similarly to cars, motorcycles have different features, handling, and responsiveness. Before taking one out for a spin, make sure that you’ve done the proper safety checks and have considered the necessary skills required to drive the bike.

Motorcycles can be thrilling and fun, but they can also be very dangerous if not driven safely and properly. Before you hop on your own bike, or with someone else, keep these safety tips in mind to ensure you’re riding responsibly.

Source: “If Your Ride a Motorcycle.” MSF-USA.ORG, www.msf-usa.org/documents/library/if-you-ride-a-motorcycle/Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.

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