How to Operate a Motorcycle Safely

Motorcycles are fast, which means they are also dangerous. In fact, according to IIHS.org, they 26 times more deadly than standard motor vehicles. Every year, there are thousands of motorcycle-related deaths, and even more injuries. According to the NHTSA, from 2004 to 2014, more than 4,000 people have died every year in motorcycle accidents. In 2014, there were an astonishing 4,295 motorcycle deaths, and over 92,000 motorcycle accident injuries. With statistics like these, you can understand why motorcycle safety is a vital responsibility that should be taken seriously.

Continue reading to learn how to operate a motorcycle safely while navigating roads all year long, and what to do if you find yourself in need of roadside assistance in Central Indiana.

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Indiana Motorcycle Roadside Assistance and Towing 317-247-8484

Fundamental Motorcycle Safe Driving Tips

There are some pretty basic motorcycle safe driving tips, all of which you will learn through time and experience. However, it is still vital to review and learn such fundamentals before ever mounting a motorcycle. From navigating roadways to taking turns, there is plenty for you to know before hitting the pavements. Even for seasoned bikers, a good road safety review is always a good idea.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind at all times:

To protect yourself on these kinds of road conditions, be sure to drive the recommended speed limit, keep a steady pace, stay alert, and keep your hands firmly gripped to the handlebars. It is also important to keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and wear your helmet shield in order to protect your eyes from flying rock or gravel.

Avoid driving in inclement weather, like heavy rain, storms, hail, and snow. When you have to drive in poor weather conditions, reduce your speed and keep an eye out for obstacles ahead. Try to avoid driving at night too if you can. Never drive at night if any of your lights are defective.

Be sure to get plenty of sleep before a long road trip, and always stop to rest if you are having trouble staying awake while riding. Most importantly, it is always necessary to wear your helmet and never operate a motorcycle under the influence of drugs, prescription medication, or alcohol.

Towing and Roadside Assistance for All of Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Inc. at 317-247-8484 for friendly 24 hour towing and recovery, as well as roadside assistance in Central Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! Request a free estimate, anytime.

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Hazardous Road Conditions to Avoid on a Motorcycle

This time of year, the rate of traffic accidents increases drastically. When it comes to types of accident victims, motorcyclists are at the top of the list. Some of the most common causes for motorcycle accidents in the United States are speeding, loss of control, driving at night, approaching unexpected curves in the road, and intoxicated driving. This tells us that the best way to prevent motorcycle accidents is to avoid dangerous driving. Unlike cars, motorcycles and their drivers are more vulnerable to inclement weather and unreliable road conditions. For this reason, one of the most important aspects of avoiding dangerous driving is to avoid driving in hazardous conditions.

Continue reading to learn which roads can be the most dangerous on a motorcycle, and who to call after wrecking your bike in an Indiana motorcycle accident.

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Indiana Motorcycle Towing 317-247-8484

Unpredictable Roads

Unpredictable roads are not a safe route for motorcycles because they can be full of unexpected turns, curves, bends, obstacles, roadblocks, and more. Conditions like narrow roads, loose gravel, rock beds, uneven surfaces, mud, oil, water runoff, fallen trees, road construction, and similar obstructions are common hurdles that motorcyclists must look out for at all times.

For instance, roads with gravel or loose aggregate can make it quite challenging to apply the brakes and come to a safe stop, especially for beginners or inexperienced drivers. Unpredictable roads can be even more dangerous at night. You cannot see a fallen tree or sudden bend in the dark as well as you can during the day. When combined with unsafe driving practices, like speeding, unpredictable roads can be incredibly dangerous.

Wet and Muddy Roads

Rain and snow can create some unpleasant driving conditions, but for motorcycles, these unpleasant driving conditions can be flat out dangerous. Muddy roads are a common obstacle for motorcycles. Not only is it a challenge to navigate a motorcycle through thick, sticky mud, it is very difficult to maintain control and stability.

The best way to avoid an accident is to avoid driving on a muddy road altogether. If the road is only slightly muddy, you can proceed with caution by driving slowly to avoid slipping or sliding. Just be sure to rinse your bike clean of mud when you arrive at your destination to prevent rusting and mechanical issues. These factors can cause a decline in performance and safety, as well.

Winding Roads

Meandering and winding roads, like those found in the hills or mountain ranges, can be very dangerous on a motorcycle. These roads are even more dangerous in inclement weather, at night, and when the sun is setting. For this reason, driving a motorcycle on winding roads requires more alert driving. Furthermore, it requires sufficient practice and experience to adopt the skills of accurate timing and good judgment for navigating twisty or narrow roads on a motorcycle.

For beginner motorcyclists, it is recommended to start on small hills so that you can practice using good timing and navigational judgment while taking turns and bends. Eventually, you should learn how to set up for a curve. Keep in mind that this skill set takes years of driving experience to perfect.

Did You Wreck Your Bike in Central Indiana?

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for affordable 24 hour towing and recovery in Indianapolis, or anywhere throughout Central Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! We also provide 24 hour roadside assistance, including fuel delivery, tire service, and lockouts. Request free estimates, anytime.

Indianapolis Towing & Recovery 317-247-8484