A study of motorcycle fatalities amongst troopers performed by the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center earlier this yr revealed the primary explanation for deadly accidents between 2016 and 2019: errors made by riders. Findings from the examine has fueled USACRC’s ongoing rider training and coaching to stop motorbike crashes.
For all service members who trip bikes, figuring out easy methods to be secure whereas on the street is vital to stopping accidents.
Lucia Sanchez, director of media technique on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and David Newman, the security and occupational well being supervisor at Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital at Fort Polk, Louisiana, shared recommendation for brand new and seasoned riders.
Invest in Proper Gear for Protection and Visibility
- Wearing a helmet is the best method to shield your self from a head damage. Use a bike helmet for each trip, and guarantee your passengers even have one. “Checking the fit of your helmet ensures optimal protection,” Sanchez shared. Your helmet also needs to have a legitimate U.S. Department of Transportation label. It signifies that your helmet meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Novelty helmets with out this label could not meet the identical commonplace and won’t present the perfect safety wanted in case you are in a crash.
- Make certain you will have a sturdy jacket, pants, boots, and gloves. You ought to be comfy in your gear. “Don’t go for the cheapest option. This gear will protect you during falls or crashes when you most need it,” Newman said.
- “Wearing high-visibility colors and retro-reflective materials will maximize the ability of drivers to see you,” Sanchez mentioned. Each car has blind spots, so keep away from staying in these areas and lowering the possibilities of being hit. Staying in your lane additionally ensures different drivers will see you. Weaving out and in of automobiles may be harmful and will increase the possibilities of being hit. The Department of Defense has specific guidance for attire while operating a motorcycle, with variances on every set up, so attain out to the security workplace in the event you plan to trip on base.
Enjoy the Ride Safely
For many, bikes could have been part of your life for years. Riding can turn out to be second nature, however you shouldn’t overlook these routine checks and balances. Newman steered discovering an skilled rider to share the street with, permitting you to realize extra information on maintaining your motorbike in high situation.
- Understanding the motorbike you trip and the way it handles is vital. “Each bike rides differently, which riders should be aware of before hitting the road. A safety course taught by a seasoned professional is also a great idea, as riders can learn to operate their machine more efficiently,” Newman mentioned.
- “Know and respect your riding abilities, instead of pushing the boundaries and causing unnecessary injuries,” Sanchez shared. When you need to apply using, accomplish that in a managed atmosphere, the place you may preserve your self and others secure. Having a buddy current can also be a good suggestion, in case help is required.
- Newman additionally steered planning your route if taking an extended trip. This might help with arranging your journey round development areas, climate situations, relaxation stops, and velocity limits. Plan rigorously for gadgets you will want to pack in your luggage, similar to software kits and patches. Different temperatures and elevations can have an effect on tire strain, so be aware as you put together to hit the street.
- Tires, controls, lights, electrical, oil and fluids, chassis, and the facet stand are areas to test earlier than every trip, in line with Newman. This might help alleviate any points which may come up and keep away from an accident. It can also be an amazing thought to test your tire strain when stopping to refill on gasoline.
At the top of the day, being secure permits you to higher benefit from the trip.
For extra motorbike security data, try the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s motorcycle safety website. Contact your base security workplace for extra data on motorbike security, coaching, registration, and necessities.