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Accident Prevention for Motorcyclists |
Written by lloyd robles
Monday, 05 May 2008
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Motorcycling can be one of the most enjoyable ways to see the country, make commuting more efficient, and save money with rising gas prices. With straddling an engine and two wheels comes added joys and added risks; becoming aware and prepared for those risks can help save motorcyclists lives and keep the road safer and more enjoyable for all. The most important piece of protective equipment for all motorcyclists is mental preparedness through education. Nearly all motorcycle only accidents (where only the motorcyclist is involved) are because of rider error. Every rider should be aware of his or her own abilities and not push these boundaries unless in a safe environment (a closed track or parking lot for practicing skills are fine examples). An excellent way of becoming more proficient in riding skills is by taking a rider education course. Some states require these classes in an effort to cut down on motorcycle accidents, and at the successful completion of a motorcycle education course, a motorcycle license is issued. Motorcycle safety courses provide a relaxed and safe atmosphere that promotes learning and allow riders opportunity to practice skills in order to become better prepared riders when they are ultimately afforded the privilege of solo riding on highways, freeways, and backroads. One of the first lessons in all motorcycle safety courses cover the need to purchase specially made riding protective gear. A Department of Transportation approved helmet is a motorcyclist's first line of defense, protecting his or her head in a collision. Research shows that a motorcycle helmet is essential in preventing brain injury and death in the event of an accident. Helmets that have been D.O.T. approved have successfully passed vigorous testing and are best prepared for keeping riders' heads safe and protected. Helmets may also be subjected to further testing and become Snell approved as well. The Snell Memorial Foundation has been an independent tester and developer of helmets since 1957, with more rigorous guidelines that helmets must pass in order to become Snell certified. A motorcyclist's body needs to be protected as well, and many specially designed suits are available in natural (leather) and synthetic materials. In the event of an accident, protective clothing can act as an extra skin that will take the shredding asphalt delivers instead of the motorcyclist's own, allowing him or her to slide out of the way of traffic to safety. Motorcyclists must always be aware of their surroundings and the risks involved with traveling amongst automobiles. Continuous evaluation of risk and prevention of controllable risks through knowledge and proper riding gear can help protect motorcyclists in traffic accident situations, helping to ensure there will be many more enjoyable miles and rides in the future. Even the most prepared and knowledgeable motorcyclist can be part of an unfortunate accident, and it is good to know that legal associates such as Austin's Robles and Associates are available to help in the aftermath of a collision. Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com |
About The Author:
Lloyd Robles heads Robles & Associates, an Austin, Texas based firm, specializing in personal injury law. Please visit www.roblesassociates.com
Lloyd Robles heads Robles & Associates, an Austin, Texas based firm, specializing in personal injury law. Please visit www.roblesassociates.com
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