Accidents that are mere “panel-beating” for a car or truck can mean death or disability for a motorcyclist. It is not difficult to lose a limb, seriously damage internal organs, or become paralysed. 

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #1: Wear a helmet

The number one topic in any discussion about motorcycle super safety is “wearing a helmet”.  There is often spirited disagreement between those who believe in wearing a motorcycle helmet and those that don’t.

It is hard to isolate one single argument from the no-helmet brigade that makes any sense, and research statistics abound on the number of motorcyclists lives saved by wearing helmets.

If you have an accident on your motorcycle, there is a good chance you will be thrown off and land on your head.  If you are wearing a good helmet, statistics show that serious head injuries can usually be averted.  You might end up with a severe headache, but at least you’ll be alive! 

Even low impact head injuries can be fatal.  There was one case where a stationary motorcyclist lost his balance, fell off the bike and hit his head on the concrete driveway, dying from the injury a few days later.  Because he was in his own driveway messing around and not going anywhere, he did not have his helmet on.   There was no motorcycle “super safety” here, with tragic results.

A helmet is not a 100% guarantee for avoiding accident or serious injury—no safety device is. In any collision with a four-wheel vehicle, a motorcyclist is definitely not going to come out on top.

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #2: Wear protective, bright clothing

Wear appropriate gear for comfort, protection and to be clearly seen by other motorists. Motorcycle accidents are not pretty. Bikers thrown from their motorcycle can skid across the road, and without protective leather clothes and boots can forcibly embed rocks, glass and other objects into their flesh. This can cause prolonged pain and suffering and could easily be avoided.

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #3: Stay alert and ride sober

Fatigue and drowsiness can seriously impair a motorcyclist’s ability to react. Make sure you have plenty of breaks when riding, and avoid riding when very fatigued.  Likewise, alcohol and other drugs affect judgment and should be strictly “off-limits” when riding your motorcycle.

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #4: Plan ahead

Make sure you conduct a safety inspection of your motorcycle before each ride.  Many accidents are caused by mechanical problems with the bike.  When riding in a group, determine your route in advance and coordinate it with the other riders. 

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #5: Obey The Law

Nearly half of all motorcycle riders involved in accidents are unlicensed or improperly licensed. Make sure your licence is up to date.  Always obey the traffic laws.  Keep refreshing your knowledge of the road rules and local traffic laws and…… don’t speed!

Motorcycle Super Safety Tip #5: Learn and Improve

More than 90% of riders involved in motorcycle accidents have had no formal training. Taking a motorcycle training course will help to develop good basic riding techniques   Once the basic skills are acquired, motorcyclists can sharpen their street-riding strategies and accident-avoidance skills by taking an experienced or defensive driving course for motorcyclists.

Motorcyclists have a responsibility to protect themselves as much as possible.  Follow motorcycle super safety principles by wearing a good helmet, eye protection, protective clothing, and good boots. You know it makes sense!