On average, there are nearly 90,000 motorcycle crashes every year. Of those, 80% result in injury or death.

These statistics are just a few reasons why motorcycle safety is so important.

The feeling of being out on the open road is indescribable. Unfortunately, with little protection between you and the road, even a minor accident can be catastrophic.

In this article, we'll cover everything from choosing the right motorcycle safety equipment to obeying traffic laws to help keep you, your bike, and other motorists safe.

Grab your motorcycle helmet and let's get started!

Wear the Appropriate Motorcycle Gear

You can address some of the most important motorcycle safety procedures before you even start your ride.

Boots, leather jackets, gloves, and full-face helmets do more than just look cool -- they can save your life.

Boots

Most motorcycle boots are made from thick, heavy leather that helps protect your ankles while driving and in the event of a crash. Some boots also have special padding, metal, or composite materials that offer added stability.

Avoid wearing flimsy footwear that doesn't offer adequate support or protection for your legs and ankles.

Jacket and Pants

If you've ever seen road rash, you know that this motorcycle accident injury is no joke.

Long pants and a jacket with armor protect your limbs from making direct contact with the ground. This motorcycle gear also has padding around high-impact areas like the elbows and shoulders to help prevent further injury, like broken bones.

Motorcycle jackets and pants also keep riders safe against the elements. These include sun, heat, wind, and even bugs.

Gloves

While motorcycle gloves do protect your hands from the elements and during a crash, their most important purpose is comfort.

These thick gloves help absorb the vibration many riders feel through the bike's handles. The engine's vibration can cause tingling and even numbness in some rider's hands and fingers, especially on long rides.

Motorcycle Helmets

Only 3 states in the US have no helmet law at all, while most require helmets for riders under 18. Regardless of where you live, the number one motorcycle safety tip is to never get on your bike without a helmet.

Motorcycle helmets reduce your risk of head injury by almost 70% and your risk of death by over 40%!

Full-face helmets are especially beneficial since over 35% of an accident's impact is to the chin.

In addition, the face shield prevents things like bugs and inclement weather from obstructing your view.

Bike Safety Starts with Routine Maintenance

Another way to protect yourself while riding is to perform routine maintenance on your motorcycle.

Basic things like staying up-to-date with oil changes, checking the tire pressure and treads, and keeping a clean chain, ensure that your bike functions properly on the road.

You also need to replace the coolant and air filters regularly. Prevent accidents and injuries by keeping your bike in tip-top shape.

Check the Weather

It's no secret that when riding a motorcycle both you and your bike are exposed to the elements. Poor visibility and slick surfaces account for 4% of fatal motorcycle crashes.

Check the weather forecast before you head out. Be sure to monitor changes in weather at your current location, as well as at your destination.

Weather is unpredictable and can change in an instant, creating hazardous conditions.

If you're planning a long road trip, monitor the weather regularly using an app. This information can help you plan a safe route and gather the proper motorcycle gear for your journey.

Be Honest About Your Skills and Limits

Did you recently purchase your motorcycle or have you been riding for years? Are you comfortable driving on highways or at night?

These are all questions to ask yourself before heading out.

Put your pride aside and be honest about your physical and mental limitations and skills. There's no shame in admitting that driving in inclement weather or at high speeds makes you nervous.

The only foolish thing would be to venture out anyway, despite your gut instinct telling you otherwise. Get some miles on your bike and experience under your belt before attempting cross-country trips or rides on off-road adventures.

When you're finally ready to take on a challenge, be sure to invite other experienced riders along.

Drive Defensively

Now that you've checked your bike's mechanics and have all the right motorcycle safety equipment in place, it's time to hit the road.

One of the top claims motorists make following a motorcycle accident is, "I didn't see them". Nearly 2/3 of all motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers violating the rider's right of way.

Never assume a car can see you.

Motorcycles, street bikes, and scooters are narrow and often fall in a driver's blind spot, which is a dangerous place to be.

Never get complacent while on your bike. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings and other vehicles on the road. Periodically check your mirrors and scan the roadway.

Other obstructions and distractions like debris, animals, or construction require riders to make fast, split-second decisions. Being alert means changing lanes and routes safely and without injury.

Never Drive While Impaired

This is driving 101 -- regardless of the type of vehicle you're driving, it's never okay to drive while impaired.

Impaired driving doesn't just mean under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It can also mean driving while tired or texting while driving.

Operating a motorcycle requires your undivided attention. Anything short of that puts both you and other motorists at risk.

These Motorcycle Safety Tips Could Save a Life

These motorcycle safety tips are just the tip of the iceberg. You can never be too careful when hitting the open road.

Staying alert, following traffic laws, and performing routine maintenance are your bike are a given. Planning your route, checking the weather, and always wearing the appropriate motorcycle safety equipment can help prevent injury when tragedy strikes.

At Xtreme Helmets, we carry a wide variety of helmets and protective gear for all types of riders. We even offer sale and discount items!

Check out some of our awesome inventory and get ready to ride with confidence!