3 Tips For Safe Motorcycle Riding This Summer

On behalf of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.

May 29, 2020
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As you dust off your bike for the upcoming riding season in Wisconsin, it’ important to remember that a little bit of precaution can go a long way. Because no matter how high the safety rating is on your motorcycle, you still face way more exposure than other vehicles on the road.

In fact, it’s estimated that motorcyclists are ten times more likely to incur severe injuries from a crash than motorists. Changing up your outfit or rethinking your riding habits can help keep you safe this summer.

Here are three tips to keep in mind before taking off on short and long rides:

  1. Dress the part: Dressing the part is a huge aspect of motorcycle riding that you don’t have to consider when you drive a car. Not only can wearing a helmet save you from serious head injuries, but if it is bright in color or reflective it can help those your share the road with spot you better too. Wearing fluorescent or reflective clothing can also increase your visibility.
  2. Plan your journey: Although taking your bike out spontaneously or any chance you get can make for some of the best memories, sometimes a little planning can make a world of difference. For example, checking weather ahead of time can save you from driving in extreme and dangerous weather conditions. Noting all the new road construction sites that have popped up as the snow melted can also make for smoother riding conditions. It can serve as an advanced warning of potential debris, slowdowns or detours.
  3. Drink more water: Since you are more exposed to the summer heat on your bike than in a car, it’s especially important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty water can save you from dehydration. Although dehydration isn’t the worst medical condition to face, it can result in dizziness which can greatly affect your ability to stay balanced on your bike. And drinking alcohol before rides isn’t the type of hydration you need. It’s worth noting that a quarter of all the fatal motorcycle crashes across the U.S. in 2016 involved alcohol.

The motorcycle riding season in Wisconsin can be short lived, but don’t let reckless driving habits take on a new meaning to treating every ride like it could be your last.