Since summertime is officially in full swing, many motorcyclists are taking advantage of the weather by riding more frequently. If you are riding this summer, it’s important to keep certain safety precautions in the back of your mind so you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
In the event you do get hurt in a crash, don’t hesitate to reach out to a highly skilled motorcycle accident lawyer at Emerald City Law Group. We can investigate your case and ensure your rights remain protected. To schedule a free consultation of your case, contact us today at (206) 973-0407.
How to Stay Safe While Riding This Summer
To enjoy your summertime riding while still keeping yourself and other motorists safe, you should take the following precautions:
Stay Hydrated
While drinking plenty of water is crucial for all motorists in the hot summer season, it’s particularly important for riders who are directly exposed to the sun while riding. Get into the habit of hydrating before you go for a ride and stashing some water bottles and ice packs in your bags.
Stop Frequently
If you’re planning a long ride, make an effort to stop at least once every hour. Take 10 to 15 minutes to simply relax. You can stop at a restaurant or convenience store to use the restroom, get some food, or simply cool off in the air conditioning. It can be tempting to just keep going, but riding for too long without any breaks can be dangerous for you and everyone else on the road.
Wear Protective Gear
Some motorcyclists forgo protective gear when riding in the summer. While it may seem strange to cover up when riding on hot days, it’s important. Riders who ride uncovered are more likely to get dehydrated. This can make them dizzy while riding and significantly increase the risk of an accident.
Pack a Summer Rider Kit
Putting together a summer rider kit and bringing it with you on every motorcycle ride can ensure you’ll be prepared for any situation that may come your way. The kit can include items such as water bottles, protein snacks, first aid supplies, extra clothing, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
Check Your Motorcycle
If your motorcycle has been stashed away in the winter and spring, it’s a good idea to perform a thorough inspection of the tire pressure, headlights, signals, and other parts to make sure they’re in good working order. Taking it to an experienced mechanic who can perform a service check can give you some extra peace of mind.
Ride Defensively
Avoid speeding or riding aggressively in the summer. While you may want to test your limits on a nice summer day, doing so can pose a serious hazard. Always follow the rules of the road and ride defensively like you would if you were behind the wheel of a sedan, SUV, or truck.
Be Aware of Heat Exhaustion
Even if you stay hydrated, take breaks, and follow the other safety tips we’ve mentioned, you can still face heat exhaustion. Be aware of its warning signs, which include dizziness, muscle cramping, fatigue, headaches, confusion, and fast heartbeat. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop riding and get hydrated right away.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Emerald City Law Group
While we encourage you to enjoy riding your summer riding experience, we hope that you’ll remember these motorcycle safety tips. If you do sustain an injury after a motorcycle crash, give Emerald City Law Group a call and allow our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to inform you of your legal options. Contact us today at (206) 973-0407 to schedule a free evaluation of your case and learn how we can help.
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