Motorcycling is without doubt one of the greatest methods of getting round, however it can be fairly dangerous. Bikers are round 60 instances extra prone to endure highway deaths in comparison with automotive drivers, so it’s essential to know the best way to keep secure. Right here we study the best way to cut back the dangers whereas biking.

Ideas for staying secure on the highway whereas driving 

First, let’s have a look at the numbers. In line with authorities statistics there have been 15,838 accidents involving bikes in 2021, with 310 fatalities and 5,264 leading to severe accidents. Whereas these numbers have fallen since 2004, bikes nonetheless account for about 20% of highway casualties whereas solely representing round 1% of the UK’s site visitors.

Digging additional into the statistics, we will see 67% of deadly accidents happen on rural roads. There are quite a few various factors that make rural roads considerably extra harmful than city routes, however the bodily situation of the roads performs a giant function. Potholes, ruts and basic unevenness may cause massive issues for bikers when you’re not paying consideration, and even with out that sort of put on and tear nation roads can have particles (akin to mud or a sugar beet fallen from a trailer) which might impair the grip in your tyres.

Past the situation of the highway, climate and local weather can have an effect on how your bike behaves. Clearly icy and moist situations may be dangerous, however your tyre’s traction can be affected throughout sizzling climate. Taking note of the situation of the highway and the way your bike responds to it is important.

Visibility stays a key consider avoiding bike accidents

The connection between the highway and the countryside it passes by way of is a gigantic threat issue. Junctions are the commonest location for accidents, and the principle trigger is different highway customers failing to cease or give approach to motorcyclists. Visibility is a key consider avoiding these accidents, and it’s a good suggestion for bikers to take steps to make themselves stand out. Leaving a long way between your self and automobiles in entrance will assist to make you stand out extra.

There’s a purpose why lots of the UK’s most deadly roads cross by way of areas of excellent pure magnificence, with many providing the sort of curving traces that may tempt you to open the bike up a bit and put it by way of its paces. Whereas the surroundings could also be gorgeous and the tarmac stretching out in entrance of you invitations you to burn rubber, you’ll want to keep focussed on the highway and what’s on it to be able to get the place you’re going safely.

Whereas the share of deadly accidents that happen in cities or cities is decrease, you shouldn’t let your guard down, and stay conscious of potential dangers.

Junctions are an everyday location for highway accidents right here, too, the place it’s typically harder to take care of distance between site visitors. As soon as once more, situational consciousness is essential to avoiding hassle. In addition to keeping track of site visitors merging at junctions to verify they’re conscious of you, you additionally want to concentrate to automobiles in entrance in case they flip or cease out of the blue. 

Maintaining a tally of their wheels will provide you with an thought of what they’re about to do, typically earlier than the brake or indicator lights come on. At T-junctions you’ll want to be conscious of site visitors turning left, and you must try to depart a niche between you to permit them to take action.

Keep away from overtaking on, or close to, corners to remain secure

Overtaking is one other massive reason behind accidents. In line with the federal government’s statistics, failure to guage different highway customers’ path and pace is the second largest trigger of great accidents, so you’ll want to train excessive warning whereas overtaking. This doesn’t essentially imply slowing down whereas doing so, it’s extra about being certain it’s secure to take action earlier than committing to the manoeuvre. Overtaking on, or close to, corners specifically is one thing that must be prevented.

The statistics present that rush hour, between 4-7pm, is the time when most accidents happen. When you need to get residence, you’ll want to keep focussed and alert to the site visitors round you, significantly if different drivers are drained and distracted after a day at work.

It’s typically stated youthful riders are extra vulnerable to accidents, however that will not be the case. The figures present the proportion of individuals concerned in accidents stays comparatively fixed throughout all ages between 16 and 59, peaking at 18% for 30-39 yr olds.

Whether or not you’re new to the highway or an previous hand, you shouldn’t be complacent concerning the potential risks you face. Taking superior programs will help to construct your confidence and provide the information to experience safely. They’re a good suggestion for riders of any degree, both to construct your abilities or to appropriate unhealthy habits which have developed over time.  

Bikesure insurance coverage for each biker

Whether or not you’re a day by day biker, new to motorcycling or a born once more biker, Bikesure may have a bike insurance coverage coverage to match your very particular person wants. Name 0330 123 1028 for a speedy no obligation quote or request a callback at a time to go well with you.