While driving a car or SUV is dangerous, riding a motorcycle takes that danger to another level. Cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles shroud their occupants in tons of steel, plastic, airbags, and the safety of seat belts, while a motorcyclist is essentially unprotected. A helmet and leathers, or an armored jacket, go a long way, but not long enough in all too many instances. Motorcyclists are exposed to the perils of the road like only pedestrians and cyclists are, and are at the mercy of larger road users’ patience, attention, and respect, all three of which can be hard to find at times. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more than 4,000 motorcyclists die each year, and hundreds of thousands more are injured. In order to minimize those and some of the other risks associated with riding a motorcycle, being prepared with the proper gear and equipment is crucial. However, if you have been injured by a careless or reckless driver, contact an experienced motorcycle or car accident attorney today for legal advice.
Hydration and Food
Motorcyclists should carry enough water for them and their passenger on all trips. Staying hydrated not only keeps you more comfortable, it also increases stamina and reaction time, which may be vital in keeping you out of harm’s way. Food is also important, especially on longer trips or rides that take you away from populated areas where there are no food stops or gas stations nearby. Just like water, food keeps a rider strong, attentive, and ready to react quickly.
Flat Tire and Engine Repair Tools
A basic set of tools will get you through smaller engine breakdowns and flat tires. Equally important is the knowledge necessary to fix a flat tire or engine trouble. Tow trucks may not always be available depending on your cell phone coverage, and getting stranded out in the middle of nowhere is even more perilous for a motorcyclist because they have no shelter from the rain or sun.
Emergencies Call for First Aid Before First Responders Arrive
If you are in a wreck and you or your passenger becomes injured, you may need to perform first aid in the time that it takes an ambulance to arrive. A first aid kit can also help with smaller injuries. You can buy a pre-made kit or build your own with gauze, medical tape, scissors, antibiotic ointment, alcohol pads, rubber medical gloves, variably sized bandages, and other essentials.
Cell Phone, Charger, and Solar Charger
Whether you are traveling the same five mile route to work and back as you do every other weekday, or you are heading out for a week-long trips across the country, having a cell phone in case of a breakdown or emergency is always necessary. For longer trips, take along the charger or even a solar powered charger.
Helmet, Sunglasses, Armored Jacket, and Leather Riding Pants
A helmet is the most important piece of gear you own. The more coverage, the better. An armored jacket and leather pants will help diminish the amount of road rash your body sustains in the event of a crash, as will heavy duty, closed toe shoes or boots. Sunglasses are a must if you ride without a visor, as hours, days, weeks, and years of heavy UV sunlight exposure can lead to cataracts, keratitis, and even blindness, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact an experienced Cincinnati motorcycle accident attorney at the law offices of Ohio Car Accident Lawyers today.
