There is nothing like riding a motorcycle in the UK. Feeling the warmth and rumble of the engine below you while power through the cities, towns, and neighborhoods, connected to the road. It is a unique and intoxicating feeling and one that is hard to match.
But many of the things that make riding a motorcycle so enjoyable in the UK, also make it dangerous, and because of this you need to both take precautions and be cautious about your motorcycle riding behavior.
Your Patience Will Be Tested
Riding a motorcycle is often a test of patience and calm. Manny drivers do not give motorcycles the same level of respect on the road as they do other cars and as a result often a motorcyclist gets put in a dangerous position leading to an accident. As a rider you must always look around at how other drivers are driving and never assume that a car sees you or will give way, even if you are in the right. The key for when a driver puts you in danger is to take their license plate number and report them to the police. Consider getting a camera on your helmet so you can document incidents that happen and have this video ready to give to police. Never engage with a rude or illegal driver, or try and chase them down because this will create danger for you and others on the road. Most of all keep patient and calm even when you are in the right.
If you find yourself in an accident caused by a driver who is not obeying traffic laws, negligent, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you need to call the police immediately, take the driver’s information and make notes at the scene about what happened. You also need to contact a reputable personal injury attorney like www.slatergordon.co.uk. They will make sure that you get compensated for any medical bills, trauma, and personal injury you receive as a result of the accident.
Use the Latest Tech
There is a lot of tech available today that can help to make things safer and more comfortable for you on the road. Look into getting a helmet with Bluetooth capabilities, for instance. You can answer an emergency phone call this way and it can facilitate navigation and rider-to-rider communication. Many bikes have cruise control these days and if you will need to maintain a constant speed for long periods of time tis can be a great feature to use. Finally consider a GPS which can tell you where you are and alert you to turns that are coming in advance. These devices can really help you to be safe on the road.
Do not Ride When you are too Tired or Stressed
Riding can be a physically and mentally draining experience, and you’ll have to listen to your body to make sure you are ready for it. The last thing you want to do is to be too tired, lose concentration and put yourself at risk of a bad accident. Remember, every car is a potential problem for you, and you need to be awake, alert and focused when your ride. So if you are too tired or stressed take a car or rest first and then take your bike.
Wear Long Clothes
Long pants and shirts are the proper attire when riding a motorcycle. In addition to keeping you warm, they also add a layer of protection in the event of an accident. There is clothing especially made for riders that are of thicker denims, Kevlar or leather and that have additional pads on the knees, elbows and other areas most likely to get hurt in a crash. There are also full body jumpsuits you can purchase that protect your entire body minus your head and feet. Consider buying and wearing this type of clothing for your personal safety when riding.
Be Cautious in the Rain
Riders need to be extra careful in wet weather because roads can get slippery and you can easily lose traction. Decide whether it is a good idea to ride during a particular rain, and always err on the side of caution. Better to be late for an appointment than to end up in an accident caused by wet roads.
Always wear a helmet, be cautious and alert, make sure your bike is always serviced, and you will be able to enjoy the amazing roads of the UK.