People all over the world love to ride motorcycles. They are an important mode of conveyance and very comfortable too. They are even cheaper than other modes of public transport and people save a lot by riding motorcycles in terms of money and time. Riding a motorcycle in itself is fun. It gives a sense of freedom and control over ones time schedule. Say for example, if you choose to drop your kid at his school, you can do so with ease and very little time. But if you have school bus for the purpose, your kid has to be ready at the right time and the bus takes more time as well. There are many places where modes of transport are difficult to find. But if you are on your bike, things become very easy. But there are increased chances of motorcycle accidents which have been on the increase in the last few years. In the last year alone there were around 5000 fatal motorcycle accidents in US.
The tragedy of these motorcycle accidents lies in the fact that majority of these are preventable. Many lives can be saved if people are a little bit more responsible and take care and some precautions while driving.
Helmets save. Use them
The most important precaution while driving a motorcycle is to wear a helmet. They provide vital protection from severe head injuries, and thus using helmets increases chances of survival in case of motorcycle accidents. Brain injuries are the most important factor leading to fatality, and thus wearing a helmet while driving is the best way to reduce the risk of severe injury or death. In a recent survey by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it was found that head injuries are responsible for deaths in most cases of motorcycle accidents. In the case of a collision, motorcyclists have 8 times more probability of suffering injuries than occupants of cars and there are 37% more chances of a motorcyclist dying in an accident than an occupant of a car.
Motorcycle Accidents can be prevented
Accidents take place because of many factors, and to say that it was not your fault is like passing the buck. First and foremost, adopting healthy and safe riding habits is one way to avoid accidents. But even if you are one of the safest motorcyclists, you may have to face the brunt of someone else's rash or negligent driving. So, being extra careful while driving a motorcycle is for your safety interest. Car drivers pay little heed to motorcyclists and do not yield easily. So it is better to avoid trying to race past a car and better to wait for side.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is seen as the major cause of motorcycle accidents. Avoid driving at all costs when you have taken a few drinks as it blurs your vision and diminishes your control over gear and brakes. Poor riding skills cause many accidents. Unless you are confident of driving in heavy traffic, do not venture to do so.
In the end, it would suffice to say that safe riding habits and proper protective gear are perhaps the best tools for safety.