New motorcycle riders in Tacoma may be at an increased risk of accident and injury based on inexperience. To help keep you safe on the road, here are 10 tips for new motorcycle riders that you should always keep in mind:
1. Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
In order to get your motorcycle endorsement in Washington State, you must enroll in and pass a motorcycle safety course, according to the Washington State Department of Licensing.
2. Choose a Bike with Antilock Brakes
ABS, or an antilock braking system, is critical for safety while riding because it pumps the brakes in a more controlled manner than a standard driver can when s/he starts to go into a skid. Unfortunately, not all motorcycles come standard with ABS. If purchasing a bike, always choose one that does, or have ABS added to the model.
3. Wear a Helmet
Like passing a motorcycle safety course, the Revised Code of Washington Section 46.37.530 requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet while riding. Not only is doing so the law, but it’s also essential for safety.
4. Pick a Bike that Fits You
Motorcycles come with a plethora of different features that can add to the riding experience. More experienced riders often use a different style of bike than a novice rider. Choose a bike that you can easily mount and dismount. If a bike feels like it is too heavy, it likely is. A 250-300 cc engine is sufficient for a first motorcycle and you can do further research on the safest motorcycles on the market if buying new.
5. Follow Traffic Laws
Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling experience, but speeding, lane splitting, or doing anything else that’s against traffic laws can get you a ticket, and is incredibly dangerous.
6. Ride during Good Weather
While you may not always be able to avoid bad whether, planning your trips around snow, rain, and fog can keep you alive. Dry roads and good visibility are a necessity on busy roads like Interstate 5 for both motorcyclists as well as other drivers.
7. Gear Up
Riding a motorcycle isn’t just about hopping on your bike; instead, you need to take the time to prepare for your ride by wearing the proper gear.
- Long sleeves and pants
- Riding gloves
- Proper riding boots
8. Make a Plan
If you’re planning to go for a ride, make sure you take the time to think about your route in advance.
- Where you’ll stop for gas
- If any detours or construction zones are present
- Where you’ll get food
9. Ride Sober
It should be a no-brainer, but riding while intoxicated or otherwise impaired is never a good idea. If you’ve had a drink, plan on calling a friend or a cab to take you where you need to go safely.
10. Call an Attorney if You’ve Been injured
If you’re new to motorcycling, you may not know that you have the right to file a civil suit for damages if you’ve been in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault. At Max Meyers Law PLLC, our attorneys can help you understand your recovery options. Call us now at 425-399-7000.
