Most motorcycle accidents end in serious injury or death. If you ride a motorcycle, there are simple practices that you should follow to ensure you get home safe. Learn more below, and please remember to talk to a motorcycle accident attorney if someone hits you while you’re riding.

Wear Appropriate Riding Gear

Riding a motorcycle is no time to be wearing shorts and flip-flops (read about degloving injuries here if you don’t believe it). It’s extremely important to wear appropriate motorcycle riding gear when on your bike. This means long pants, leather sleeves, gloves, eye protection, boots to cover your feet and ankles. If you do get in an accident, the extra protection could be a lifesaver.

Be Visible

Wear clothing with bright colors and put reflective material on your bike and clothing. Always turn your headlight on, no matter the time of day; drivers tend to look for cars, not motorcycles, so you want to be as visible as possible.

Also, ride in the part of the lane that people can see the easiest. Not sure if a driver sees you? Honk.

Wear A Full-Face Helmet

Some riders like to make a personal statement by not wearing a helmet on their bike. But did you know you’re twice as likely to have a traumatic brain injury (TBI) if you’re in an accident?

Ideally, your helmet should be light in color, and it should be replaced every five years or if you’re in an accident.

Stay On Alert

Remember that you are almost entirely unprotected on a motorcycle, so stay alert for distracted drivers. Unfortunately, texting and driving are common, and it’s easy for a driver not to see you on a motorcycle. Be ready for drivers who don’t see you or swerve or suddenly change lanes.

Watch It In Intersections

Half of all traffic accidents happen at intersections. A common, devastating accident is when a driver turns left in front of a motorcyclist.

Experienced riders recommend that you pay attention to the driver’s wheels instead of the vehicle to get a quicker sense if they’re about to turn in front of you. Also, always be aware of what’s on both sides of you; that way, you can always plan an escape route if a driver does something unexpected.

Remember, always be on alert as you ride through intersections, and be prepared to take evasive action.

Never Consume Alcohol Before Riding

Approximately 40% of motorcyclists who die in one-vehicle wrecks were drunk. And speeding was involved in at least ⅓ of all fatal motorcycle crashes.

Staying alcohol-free and under the speed limit increases the chances you’ll stay clear of accidents.

Don’t Ride In Bad Weather

It’s best if you don’t ride in the rain or wind. But if you do get stuck in bad weather, have rain gear with you, and be sure to slow down.

Get Educated

If you’re new to motorcycling, you’ll be safer if you enroll in an introductory motorcycle safety class. It’s also a good idea for veteran riders to take a refresher class every few years. There are many online and face-to-face classes available, and you might score an insurance discount, as well.

Maintain Your Ride

It’s vital to keep your motorcycle in good condition so you can ride safely at all times. If you decide to skip maintenance to save a few bucks, you could get in a catastrophic accident. Always keep to the maintenance schedule for your bike, so you’re not in a self-inflicted accident.

Riding a motorcycle can be a blast, but safety is the priority. Remember these simple tips, and you’re more likely to have trouble-free fun on your rides.