13/05/2012
Safety Tips For Riding Motorcycles At Night
Introduction
Riding a motorcycle is fun and enjoyable. It gives you the feeling of freedom and independence. Riding your motorcycle during the night time is quite far different experience than riding it during the daytime. There are higher risks of accidents during night time for motorcycle riders but if you anticipate and follow protocols of safety, you will have a safer and better ride. Do not let you luck dictates your action and thinking. Be responsible and accountable for your action in the road. Here are some basic safety tips for riding a motorcycle at night.
one
Have your vision and eyesight be checked by an eye doctor. Remember it is harder to see at night than during the day light, wear glasses or contacts if you must. If you can’t avoid riding at night, have a costume made goggles or eyewear than can make your night vision more clearly. It may be more expensive than the regular ones but better be safe than sorry.
two
Before riding your motorcycle, clean and check it first. Clean and scrub the headlights, tail lights, reflectors, windshield and shiny surfaces. Check also if all of the motorcycles lights are working properly. Replace broken or malfunctioning bulbs. Check also your motorcycle’s tires, gas tank and oil. Be thorough and meticulous regarding this matter.
three
Dress appropriately and fittingly for the situation and occasion. Bring extra layer of clothing or other suitable suits necessary for those cold windy nights. Wear your reflector vest and minimize wearing dark colored clothes when riding at night. Wear also colors that are more visible at night such as white, yellow, oranges, etc. The idea here is that you want other motorists to see you at night and not run over you.
four
Check your helmet, goggles or eye wear for scratches and cracks for this can distort the images you see in the road. Make sure they fit your head and eyes perfectly and comfortably. You don’t want them to be falling off or hurting you when you use them. They should also be free of dirt and smudges. It is advisable for you to carry also a small non-abrasive microfiber cloth, water and safe solvent to clean your face shield.
five
Be a responsible adult by following the speed limit. Do not ride a motorcycle if you are under the influence of liquor or other substances. Make sure you are sober and totally in control of your motorcycle. If you are drowsy and sleepy you better slow down and stop at the side to rest and get your bearing. Make sure you would not be the cause of an accident.
six
Put in mind that those bright headlights can blind the motorist heading your way so be considerate enough to dim your light not only for the sake of the other motorist but also for your own sake. Make also sure that you are not only the one visible at night but also put necessary reflector lights and tapes on your motorcycle for increased visibility during the night.
seven
Give other motorist some space, do not tail gate them. Make sure that you would be able to stop your motorcycle in time, if the one at your front suddenly stops. Be wary also of the nocturnal creatures and other animals that cross your paths. Slow down enjoy the sights and scenery. Some scenery looks better at night.
Sources
http://www.motorcycle.com/rider-safety/night-riding-88483.html
http://www.carsandmotos.com/motorcycle-safety-tips-riding-at-night
Riding a motorcycle after dark can be anything from a sub-par and dangerous experience to one that is an enjoyable and equally safe alternative to daytime riding.
