Motorcycle safety is about adopting the proper practices while on the road to protect yourself as a rider, and all other road users. Riding a motorcycle requires a different set of skills than driving a motor vehicle, such as wearing a proper helmet to protect against head injuries. In fact, not wearing a helmet leaves riders five times more likely to suffer a severe injury. Let us examine some common motorcycle riding myths:
1. Full-face helmets block peripheral vision and impair hearing
This is a common myth among riders. According to federal standards, it is recommended that a helmet provide a 210-degree image. According to the statistics, a majority of accidents occur within a range of 160 degrees. Helmets cut down noise while riding on a motorbike; hence riders actually have an improved hearing ability.
2. Good riders never need to practice with a new bike
Most experienced riders have the notion that they are well equipped to handle any bike model. It is not the case before heading out with a new or unfamiliar model of a motorbike. It is vital to practice before heading to the major roads. A minor difference in the braking system can lead to fatal accident-causing severe injuries.
3. Lane splitting is always a safe practice
According to the study, minimal facts support lane splitting as a safe practice. Motorbike riders do this to maneuver around, but it has its fair share of risks. It poses a risk when lane splitting among vehicles changing lanes. Additionally, when riding at incredible speeds can cause severe accidents. It is estimated that 16% of motorcycle accidents were caused due to lane splitting. Some states prohibit lane splitting, which attracts heavy fines to the riders
4. Laying your bike down will slow your speed enough to avoid a crash
Laying your bike down is never a good idea. It exposes the rider to accidents caused by other motor vehicles. It is best to have a good bike with functioning brake systems to avoid a crash. Laying the bike may cause you to find yourself beneath another car. Modern bikes allow better acceleration and braking, which is safer than laying the bike on pavement.
5. Slow streets are safer
It is a myth that needs to be debunked. Slow streets are not generally safer if the rider does not follow the traffic rules and common sense. Sometimes the motorbike riders may still cause accidents on the slow roadways if they violate the given laws and regulations. Most of the roads may be quiet but inhabited by pedestrians and other riders. Due diligence has to be conducted to prevent any accidents.
6. Any driver’s license lets you operate a motorcycle
Driving an automobile is different from riding a motorcycle. For this reason, motorbike riders need to acquire another certification on the license. Most riders are required to obtain a new skill. It is estimated that riders cause 27% of road accidents without valid licenses.
It is important to remember that no matter how much time one has ridden a motorbike, it is best to ignore the above mentioned myths. Road safety is a critical aspect to maintain to keep all road users safe.
