Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience-feeling the horsepower of the bike beneath you, the wind blowing around you-there is nothing else quite like it. It is just you and the open highway. The pleasure does not come without danger, however, as motorcycle accidents are statistically far more devastating than automobile. The chance of suffering a severe head injury or dying in motorcycle accidents is higher because the biker has nothing to absorb the impact of the crash but his or her body. In an instant the joy of just you and the open highway becomes the terror of just you and the pavement. Motorcycle accidents can be particularly catasrophic.

There are ways of protecting yourself. Intelligent bikers wear helmets and other protective gear to minimize injuries in the event of motorcycle accidents. They also observe good motorcycle maintenance and familiarize themselves with the hazards peculiar to motorcyclists. These things do not negate the possibility of motorcycle accidents occurring, naturally, but knowledge can be helpful in averting many crashes.

Motorcycle maintenance can cut down on your chances of being in motorcycle accidents. While it is important to maintain a car or truck, it is doubly vital to keep a motorcycle in excellent running condition. As motorcycles are inherently less stable than four wheeled vehicles, their tires should receive careful attention. Make sure they are always in straight alignment, and be wary of tire damage or wear. Brakes should be checked often, as should any lights on your bike.

On the highway, motorcyclists should be aware of road conditions which would not hinder an automobile but which would launch a bike spinning helter skelter. Potholes, loose rock, speed bumps, and salt or sand used for melting ice can cause fatal motorcycle accidents. Debris like shreds of tires or junk from the back of a truck can also be hazardous. Oil and other spilled fluids can be a real problem for a motorcycle, too.

Finally, weather can be problematic. Aside from being unpleasant to ride in, fog, snow, downpours, and ice can be far more deadly to motorcyclists than drivers. For one thing, bad weather make it difficult for drivers to see you. They also reduce your ability to see other vehicles and any existing road hazards. The number of deadly motorcycle accidents increases in foul weather.

By all means, indulge your love of the open road, but before you ride, arm yourself with the know how to avoid motorcycle accidents.

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