Statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have revealed that about 100,000 people get into motorcycle accidents all over the United States every year. These statistics need to change. Even if you are driving safely, other road users can create unpredictable problems for you. Let us get into the Colorado motorcycle rider safety tips.
● Pick A Motorcycle That Fits Your Size
The first safety tip is to pick a motorcycle that fits your size and the kind of experience you want to have in Colorado. Your height, weight, and riding ability will determine the type of motorcycle to buy. Buying an oversized motorcycle or one that has very high horsepower can cause you to lose control of your motorcycle.
● Always Use Safety Gears
Just like picking a motorcycle that matches your physical size, your safety gear should also fit to provide you with adequate protection. If you are under the age of 18, the Colorado Motorcycle Laws require you to wear a helmet approved by the US Department of Transportation. Riders over the age of 18 can ride without helmets. All riders are required to use some form of eye protection.
● Always Inspect Your Motorcycle
Before moving out with your motorcycle in Colorado, you should always check out the mirrors, tires, brakes, throttle, and clutch to ensure that they are functioning well. You should also check for signs of wear and tear that could cause an accident during your ride. If you notice signs that may not be easily fixed, you might want to put your plans on hold before heading out to the streets of Colorado.
● Never Ride Under The Influence
You must never drive under the influence of alcohol or any substance in Colorado. Although there are other causes of motorcycle accidents in Colorado, the one single tip to keep all motorcycle riders safe in traffic is never to ride a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol.
● Get Your Motorcycle Endorsement
The Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles has given instructions on how you can get your motorcycle endorsement even as a new rider. For you to get this endorsement, a valid driver’s license is required. You are also required to pass a written and riding skills test. You can take an alternative route and complete the Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST). You must know the Colorado Motorcycle Laws and obey them all.
● Be Careful At Intersections
You should always be very cautious at intersections. You should always assume that other drivers can’t see you. Therefore, drive with your lights on and signal at the right time. Buying reflective safety gears will help you become more noticeable especially at night.
● Follow Traffic Laws
You must comply with all traffic laws. Motorcycle riders follow the same laws as every other road user but motorcycle riders need to be extra careful. In all states including Colorado, it is illegal to speed, drive past a red light and also drive under the influence of alcohol.
● Be Alert To The Weather And Road Conditions
You should check the weather to know whether it is going to rain or not. If so, you should know how to ride in conditions such as wet roads, strong winds, and uneven surfaces. This is all to make sure an accident does not occur. If it starts to snow in Colorado, you should cancel your plans and stay home because fresh snow may likely make the road extra slick.
Riding a motorcycle in Colorado can be fun but when other factors start to come in, it might be unsafe to ride. Cars can also help keep motorcycle riders safe by always assuming that there’s always a rider on each side.
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