Road Safety Tips for Baltimore’s Motorcyclists

Riding a motorcycle might be an exhilarating experience, but it’s also one of the most dangerous. Tragically, 5,172 motorcyclists were killed in Baltimore in 2017. While that’s a 3% drop from the previous year, motorcyclists are still 27 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle crash compared to people traveling in cars. Whether you are an experienced motorcyclist or about to take your first trip out on two wheels, there are some important steps you can take that can help you stay safe Baltimore’s roads, while still being able to enjoy the thrill of the ride.

Choose The Right Motorcycle

For a long time, a motorcyclist had just two options: to buy either a street bike or a dirt bike. But over the years, motorcycles have evolved, offering many more options for motorcycle buyers. This has led to a booming motorcycle market, with 472,000 motorcycles sold in just 2017 alone. Getting the right bike for you is an important part of road safety. Not all motorcycles are the same and suitable to ride on Baltimore’s roads, and you need to find a motorcycle that suits your level of experience and height and weight. But remember, safe doesn’t have to mean boring. Just do your research before parting with your cash.

Helmets Prevent 37% of Road Deaths

In the state of Maryland, it is still the law for motorcyclists to wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet is around 37% effective in preventing deaths of motorcyclists and 67% effective in helping motorcyclists avoid brain injuries. To put this in perspective, 800 motorcycle deaths in 2016 could have been avoided if the motorcyclist had worn a helmet. Your helmet can be what makes the difference in enabling you to be here to ride tomorrow.

Wear Correct Motorcycle Gear

Wearing a motorcycle is not enough when you’re out on the road. Making sure you are kitted out with the correct gear is just as important. If you were to come off your motorcycle, you’d want your clothing to take the impact, not your skin. If you don’t wear the correct motorcycle clothing, especially when traveling at high speed, you could end up with badly scraped legs, knees and arms, combined with broken fingers. It’s worth investing in a good quality biker’s jacket, which you should combine with double layered pants. These will give you good protection if you do come off your bike. Just make sure they fit you correctly and feel comfortable.

Don’t let yourself become another motorcycle crash statistic. Invest in a good quality motorcycle, kit yourself out in the right motorcycle gear and a helmet, and Baltimore’s roads will be yours to ride for many years to come.