What Are the 5 Most Important Safety Gear for Motorcyclists? Omaha Personal-Injury Lawyer Investigates
More Americans than ever before are hitting the road on motorcycles. These two-wheeled thrill rides offer an exhilarating experience that no other vehicle can match. They also consume less gas and are easier to park.
Unfortunately, these benefits come with inherent dangers. Motorcycles are less stable and more difficult to see than passenger vehicles, which makes them more prone to accidents. They also provide little protection to riders, so collisions are likely to end with injuries.
In 2014, 4,586 people died in motorcycle crashes, and another 92,000 were seriously injured, according to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That makes motorcyclists about 26 times more likely to die in an accident than occupants of passenger vehicles, and five times more likely to be injured.
As The Motorcycle Safety Foundation explains, the most effective way to survive a motorcycle wreck is to wear the appropriate equipment. These five items are particularly important:
- A Helmet;
- Face & eye protection;
- Leather boots with stiff, rubber soles;
- Riding gloves;
- And a leather jacket.
Unfortunately, even the safest bikers can fall victim to negligent motorists. If you were injured in a motorcycle crash that another driver caused, turn to Rensch & Rensch Law.
Our attorneys have more than 45 years of combined legal experience. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a free initial consultation with an Omaha motorcycle accident lawyer.
Read on for a brief overview of five essential safety items for motorcyclists:
- A Helmet
You should never buy a used motorcycle helmet because it may have been damaged in an accident. The helmet you purchase should be certified by the Snell Foundation or the Department of Transportation.
The most effective helmet designs feature a hard outer shell that resists penetration and abrasion, an impact-absorbing liner that reduces shock by slowly collapsing under stress, and a softer liner that keeps the helmet snug against the rider’s head.
- Face & Eye Protection
Being hit in the face by a rock or flying insect could cause an accident. As such, riders should always wear the appropriate eye protection.
Face shields that are attached to motorcycle helmets offer superior protection than windshields. If your helmet does not feature a face shield, then purchase a pair of riding goggles.
- Leather Boots with Stiff, Rubber Soles
A motorcyclist’s footwear performs many functions: It prevents burns from hot exhaust pipes, protects the feet and ankles from flying road debris, and prevents broken bones in the feet and ankles in the event of an accident. Make sure you purchase sturdy leather boots with thick, rubber soles.
- Riding Gloves
The importance of riding gloves extends well beyond keeping your hands warm in the winter. A high-quality pair of riding gloves can protect your hands from flying insects and rocks, as well as from the sun, wind and rain. They can also help you avoid road rash and broken bones in the event of a crash.
- Leather Jacket
If you impact the pavement during an accident, a high-quality leather jacket could save your life. It will help you slide across the pavement rather than bouncing and tumbling, which can prevent broken bones and internal injuries.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash that a negligent driver caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha personal-injury lawyer will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a free initial consultation.
