As the weather begins to cool and the seasons change, many motorcyclists want to get out on the road. If you are one of those riders, you may wonder what you can do to avoid becoming a motorcycle accident statistic.
In Maryland, the five-year average for fatalities caused by motorcycle wrecks was 70 between 2015 and 2019. The following tips can help keep you safe on your fall rides, especially if you plan to be around other vehicles at any time.
Change your tires
During the summer, you likely enjoyed rides on soft, sporty tires. That is fine during good weather, but because fall often brings with it moisture, you should swap out your summer tires for some with more grip to prevent sliding.
Check your lights
As summer wanes, the days get shorter. This may leave you riding in the dark sometimes. Before you go out on a drive, make sure all of your lights are in working order. This is essential if you want other cars to be able to see you.
Be wary around leaves
While the fall colors in Maryland are stunning, leaves on the road can create a hazard for motorcyclists. They can hide bumps, potholes and other obstacles, and when wet, leaves can make the road slick. Your best bet is to slow down and enjoy your ride at a more leisurely pace.
While you cannot control the actions of other drivers on the road, ensuring that you are following safety guidelines can prevent some motorcycle accidents.
