Motorcycle Safety Tips for Beginners

As owner of Valley Ridge Roofing and Construction in Texas, Randy Eastburg oversees the work of employers and sub-contractors at a variety of job sites. Randy Eastburg balances these duties with active leisure time, which includes riding on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

Although motorcycle riding is by nature a risky activity, the savvy rider can manage this risk by riding responsibly. For example, 48 percent of all fatal accidents in 2010 involved excessive speed, and riding without a helmet increases one's risk of a deadly head injury by as much as 40 percent. By riding at a safe speed and with the proper protection, the motorcycle enthusiast can significantly reduce the risk of a dangerous crash.

Riders can also protect themselves by attending a skills development course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation, for example, offers classes that teach basic and advanced riding techniques as well as evasive maneuvers that can help the rider to respond to a dangerous situation. Such maneuvers can be highly useful should the unexpected happen, though they cannot replace defensive driving.

The defensive driver keeps a safe distance from other vehicles, avoids riding in bad weather, and remains aware of surroundings at all times. He or she also keeps lights running and wears visible clothing to improve the bike's visibility. The best clothing for riding offers full coverage and structural reinforcement to protect the body in case of a fall, just as a helmet visor or goggles protect the eyes.