7 Motorcycle Safety Tips for Ohio Riders
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month! Is your bike ready for Ohio’s roads? Whether you’re the touring type or enjoy rumbling around on warm evenings, it’s important to keep yourself safe behind the handlebars.
With motorcycle accidents resulting in dramatically higher injury rates than car crashes, taking the right safety measures isn’t just smart—it could save your life. Here are a few tips to keep yourself safe this season:
- Gear Up Every Time You Ride. Never compromise on safety gear, no matter how short the trip. A DOT-approved helmet reduces your risk of fatal injury by 37%. Add protective jackets, pants, gloves, and boots designed specifically for motorcyclists to further protect yourself.
- Make Yourself Visible to Other Drivers. Ohio law requires motorcycles to use headlights during daylight hours, but don’t stop there. Wear bright, reflective clothing and avoid riding in blind spots. Remember that most motorcycle accidents happen because other drivers claim they “didn’t see the motorcycle.”
- Master Defensive Riding Techniques. Assume you’re invisible to other drivers and ride accordingly. Maintain safe following distances, position yourself strategically in traffic, and always have an escape route planned. Be especially vigilant at intersections, where 70% of motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur.
- Check Weather Before Heading Out. Ohio’s spring and summer weather can change rapidly. Rain reduces traction and visibility, while strong crosswinds can push your bike across lanes. Check forecasts before every ride and have a backup plan if conditions deteriorate.
- Keep Your Motorcycle in Peak Condition. Regularly inspect tires, brakes, lights, and controls. Mechanical failures at highway speeds can be catastrophic. Schedule professional maintenance before the riding season begins and perform quick safety checks before each ride.
- Stay Sober and Alert. Alcohol is involved in nearly 40% of fatal motorcycle crashes. Even one drink impairs your reaction time and balance—two critical factors for motorcycle safety. Fatigue can be just as dangerous, so take frequent breaks on longer rides.
- Know What to Do After an Accident. If you’re injured in a crash, seek medical attention immediately—even if you feel “fine.” Document everything, collect witness information, and report the accident. Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies before consulting an attorney.
Insurance companies often try to exploit unfair stereotypes about motorcyclists to minimize legitimate injury claims. Don’t let them pressure you into accepting inadequate compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering!
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help protect your rights when you’ve been injured through no fault of your own. When careless drivers cause motorcycle accidents that change your life, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 944-4373 so I can evaluate your case right away.