{"id":16481,"date":"2025-07-27T09:30:07","date_gmt":"2025-07-27T09:30:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/?p=16481"},"modified":"2025-07-28T06:33:10","modified_gmt":"2025-07-28T06:33:10","slug":"top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 3 Motorcycle Dangers and Prevention Strategies"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Motorcycling is fun and liberating, but motorcycle riders are more vulnerable on the road due to its hazards. Motorcyclists, as per U.S. traffic statistics, are roughly 29 more times inclined compared to car drivers to end up dying in a crash on a given mile traveled. Indeed, almost half of fatal two-vehicle motorcycle accidents consist of a car making a left-hand turn into a rider. For safety, riders should be informed of common motorcycle dangers and use intelligent riding techniques.<\/p>\n<p>This article shines a light on top motorcycle hazards \u2013 collisions from left turns, cornering accidents, and improper protection wear \u2013 and some practical advice for avoiding them.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69da746942de4\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69da746942de4\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Top_3_Motorcycle_Dangers\" >Top 3 Motorcycle Dangers<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#1_Left-Turn_Collisions_Vehicles_Making_a_Turn_Across\" >1. Left-Turn Collisions (Vehicles Making a Turn Across)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Ride_with_care_at_intersections\" >Ride with care at intersections.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Use_your_lights_and_position_strategically\" >Use your lights and position strategically.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Keep_an_eye_on_wheels_of_approaching_vehicles\" >Keep an eye on wheels of approaching vehicles.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Make_a_%E2%80%9CSMIDSY%E2%80%9D_wiggle\" >Make a \u201cSMIDSY\u201d wiggle.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Be_prepared_to_brake_at_all_times\" >Be prepared to brake at all times.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#2_Cornering_Crashes_Losing_Control_on_a_Turn\" >2. Cornering Crashes (Losing Control on a Turn)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Use_the_vanishing_point_technique\" >Use the vanishing point technique.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Brake_BEFORE_the_turn_not_during\" >Brake BEFORE the turn, not during.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Keep_to_your_lane_and_dont_cut_the_apex_on_unfamiliar_roads\" >Keep to your lane and don\u2019t cut the apex on unfamiliar roads.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Look_where_you_want_to_go\" >Look where you want to go.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Be_particularly_careful_on_new_roads\" >Be particularly careful on new roads.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#3_Lack_of_Proper_Riding_Gear_Inadequate_Protection\" >3. Lack of Proper Riding Gear (Inadequate Protection)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Invest_in_high-quality_gear\" >Invest in high-quality gear.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Always_wear_a_helmet_and_replace_it_after_any_crash\" >Always wear a helmet (and replace it after any crash).<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Consider_an_airbag-equipped_suit_or_vest\" >Consider an airbag-equipped suit or vest.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Check_safety_certifications\" >Check safety certifications.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Use_insurance_to_cover_your_gear\" >Use insurance to cover your gear.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-3-motorcycle-dangers-and-how-to-avoid\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_3_Motorcycle_Dangers\"><\/span>Top 3 Motorcycle Dangers<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Left-Turn_Collisions_Vehicles_Making_a_Turn_Across\"><\/span>1. Left-Turn Collisions (Vehicles Making a Turn Across)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Left-turn collisions occur when a car turns into a motorcyclist\u2019s direction of travel, frequently at intersections. This is responsible for more motorcycle crash as well as being the most fatal. Based on 2022 United States statistics, 44% of fatal two-vehicle <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-mechanical-issues-of-motorcycle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">motorcycle crashes<\/a> occurred when a vehicle was turning left to its right with the motorcycle going in a straight line. In this type of crash, a car often doesn\u2019t see a bike in time.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16494\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16494\" class=\"wp-image-16494\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/left-turn-collision.jpg\" alt=\"left-turn collision\u2014motorcycle dangers\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/left-turn-collision.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/left-turn-collision-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/left-turn-collision-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/left-turn-collision-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-16494\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">left-turn collision<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ride_with_care_at_intersections\"><\/span>Ride with care at intersections.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Always be ready to stop. Hold your<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-brake-front-vs-rear\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> front brake<\/a> lever with your hand (\"hang on the brake\") as you come up to an intersection, so you can easily brake if a car is going to pull out.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_your_lights_and_position_strategically\"><\/span>Use your lights and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-lane-positioning\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">position<\/a> strategically.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>If your motorcycle has a daytime running tail light, keep it on to make yourself more visible. Also, stay <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-following-distance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a safe distance<\/a> behind the vehicle ahead and, when possible, move slightly toward the left side of your lane. This off-center position makes you more visible to left-turning drivers and gives you space to maneuver if needed.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep_an_eye_on_wheels_of_approaching_vehicles\"><\/span>Keep an eye on wheels of approaching vehicles.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Look for cross-traffic with caution. If you notice a car\u2019s front wheels turning or its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/why-your-motorcycle-turn-signals-matter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">turn signal<\/a> flashing, it\u2019s considering turning. Even if a driver hasn\u2019t signaled, the alignment of wheels can be an indication that it\u2019s going to cut in your path.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Make_a_%E2%80%9CSMIDSY%E2%80%9D_wiggle\"><\/span>Make a \u201cSMIDSY\u201d wiggle.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>If you believe a driver doesn\u2019t see you, a bike waggle from side-to-side (the \u201cSMIDSY\u201d or \u201cSorry Mate I Didn\u2019t See You\u201d action) can attract a driver\u2019s attention. It\u2019s a slight motion that makes you more noticeable without destabilizing the bike.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Be_prepared_to_brake_at_all_times\"><\/span>Be prepared to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-often-should-change-motorcycle-brakes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brake<\/a> at all times.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Have both hands available on the grips and your eyes up. Even a good stance and alertness can\u2019t avoid all collisions, so be prepared to jam on the brakes hard if some turning vehicle comes into your lane unexpectedly.<\/p>\n<p>These preventive measures \u2013 extra vigilance, correct placement, and poised brakes \u2013 can significantly lower the risk of a surprise crash on a left turn. Keep in mind, drivers tend to underestimate how fast a motorcycle is approaching and tend to mistakenly think there\u2019s more time. Remaining noticeable and predicting their action puts you at an advantage.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Cornering_Crashes_Losing_Control_on_a_Turn\"><\/span>2. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-motorcycle-cornering-mistakes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cornering Crashes<\/a> (Losing Control on a Turn)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Even veteran riders can crash in a curve. Cornering collisions frequently occur when a rider comes into a corner too fast or estimates a curve as too mild. Unknown or twisty roads are particularly hazardous. A sharper-than-recommended turn or a patch of loose gravel can take a rider by surprise, sending the bike wide across the road or skidding out. Safe cornering involves scoping ahead of you and controlling your speed and line smoothly.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16500\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16500\" class=\"wp-image-16500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-loses-control-on-a-turn.jpg\" alt=\"motorcycle loses control on a turn\u2014motorcycle dangers\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-loses-control-on-a-turn.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-loses-control-on-a-turn-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-loses-control-on-a-turn-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-loses-control-on-a-turn-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-16500\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">motorcycle loses control on a turn<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_the_vanishing_point_technique\"><\/span>Use the vanishing point technique.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Look well ahead toward where the road seems to disappear (the \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vanishing_point\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">vanishing point<\/a>\u201d). As you enter a bend, notice how the vanishing point moves:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>If it is coming towards you, the curve is closing in \u2013 slow down.<\/li>\n<li>If it stays at the same distance, the turn is a constant radius \u2013 maintain speed.<\/li>\n<li>If it is approaching you, the road is closing \u2013 you can ease up a bit as you get closer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This visual cue helps you judge the turn\u2019s severity without guessing.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Brake_BEFORE_the_turn_not_during\"><\/span>Brake BEFORE the turn, not during.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Avoid heavy braking while leaned over, because tires have limited grip and can slide if you brake mid-turn. Slow down to a safe speed before entering the curve, then roll on the throttle gently through the turn. If you find yourself still too fast, easing off the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/common-motorcycle-throttle-grip-mistake\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">throttle<\/a> or gently tapping the rear brake can help \u2013 but full brakes during a lean usually cause a loss of traction.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep_to_your_lane_and_dont_cut_the_apex_on_unfamiliar_roads\"><\/span>Keep to your lane and don\u2019t cut the apex on unfamiliar roads.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>An early turning instinct is to \u201cstraighten\u201d the curve, but on an unknown road, this is a recipe for disaster. The inner edge of a curve can be home to incoming traffic, unseen driveways, or road hazards. Instead, choose a safe, predictable line: remain to the outside of your lane on entry (so you can see further into the curve) and go for a smooth arc, leaning into the lane\u2019s center rather than crossing the centerline.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Look_where_you_want_to_go\"><\/span>Look where you want to go.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Point your eyes at the far side of the turn. Your bike will naturally go in the direction your eyes point. If you look at a piece of gravel on the side of the road or at a car entering from the outside lane, you will tend to steer towards them. Pointing your eyes down through the turn keeps you on a steady line.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Be_particularly_careful_on_new_roads\"><\/span>Be particularly careful on new roads.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>If you are negotiating a new road for the first time, allow lots of room. Brake sooner before blind curves, anticipate unexpecteds (such as tighter turns or uneven pavement), and assume slow speeds until you have \u201cread\u201d your curve.<\/p>\n<p>With smooth throttle control and an understanding of what you should be seeing, you can negotiate corners safely. Good technique \u2013 slow in, fast out \u2013 makes you balanced and predictable, minimizing the chance of running wide or losing control.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Lack_of_Proper_Riding_Gear_Inadequate_Protection\"><\/span>3. Lack of Proper Riding Gear (Inadequate Protection)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Many riders underestimate how important their gear is. In a crash, good protective clothing can mean the difference between minor bruises and life-changing injuries. Research shows that motorcyclists wearing proper jackets, pants, gloves and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/different-types-of-motorcycle-boots\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">boots<\/a> are significantly less likely to be hospitalized after a crash. For example, a study found that riders with armored jackets were about 20% less likely to be admitted to the hospital after a wreck, and those with armored pants were about 50% less likely. In short, wearing quality gear saves lives and limbs.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_16498\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-16498\" class=\"wp-image-16498\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-riding-gear.jpg\" alt=\"motorcycle riding gear\" width=\"800\" height=\"534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-riding-gear.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-riding-gear-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-riding-gear-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-riding-gear-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-16498\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">motorcycle riding gear<\/p><\/div>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Invest_in_high-quality_gear\"><\/span>Invest in high-quality gear.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Ride-ready gear isn\u2019t cheap, but it pays off. As a rule of thumb, allocate at least as much budget to protective gear as you do to the motorcycle itself. This means a top-quality <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-the-right-helmet-type-and-size\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">helmet<\/a>, jacket, pants, gloves, and boots. Make sure jackets and pants have built-in armor (CE-rated protectors on shoulders, elbows, back, hips, knees). A textile or leather suit with armor is far better than casual clothes. Motorcycle boots (at least mid-calf with ankle support) and full gauntlet gloves protect ankles and wrists \u2013 injuries common in crashes. The investment can drastically cut medical bills and long-term costs.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Always_wear_a_helmet_and_replace_it_after_any_crash\"><\/span>Always wear a helmet (and replace it after any crash).<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Helmets are the most critical gear. They block lethal head trauma and brain injury. Studies show a helmet reduces a rider\u2019s chance of death by about 37% and cuts head injury risk by about 69%. After any crash\u2014even a minor drop\u2014a helmet should be replaced. Helmets are designed for one impact only; even without visible damage, the integrity of the inner liner can be compromised. Do not ride another day with a helmet that\u2019s been in an accident.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Consider_an_airbag-equipped_suit_or_vest\"><\/span>Consider an airbag-equipped suit or vest.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Airbag systems are becoming more popular. These electronic or mechanical suits inflate rapidly in a crash, protecting the neck, spine, chest and sometimes hips. They can greatly reduce injury in high-impact falls. Note that most airbag suits or vests can only inflate a few times (often 3\u20135 deploys) before needing replacement, so check the manufacturer\u2019s specs. Also, individual inflator cartridges are inexpensive, but replacing a suit can cost around $1,200 or more. Still, for frequent riders or those on fast bikes, an airbag layer adds extra peace of mind.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_safety_certifications\"><\/span>Check safety certifications.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Gear should meet recognized safety standards. In the U.S., helmets should be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.transportation.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DOT<\/a> or Snell certified; in Europe, look for ECE certification. Gloves and boots should have abrasion-resistant material and armor. Spending a bit more on certified gear is worth it, because uncertified \u201cbargain\u201d gear may fail in a crash.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_insurance_to_cover_your_gear\"><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-get-cheaper-motorcycle-insurance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Use insurance<\/a> to cover your gear.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Finally, make sure your insurance policy helps replace gear if you crash. Many motorcycle insurers offer an add-on for \u201cprotective gear\u201d or \u201ccustom parts and equipment.\u201d For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/State_Farm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">State Farm<\/a> includes coverage for your riding gear (helmets, jackets, etc.) up to $3,000 under collision\/comprehensive policies. If you have such coverage, keep receipts of your gear, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/what-should-you-do-after-a-motorcycle-accident\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">after a crash<\/a> you can get reimbursed for repair or replacement.<\/p>\n<p>Riding gear is your mobile safety net. Without it, even a slow-speed slide can result in road rash, broken bones, or worse. By suiting up completely \u2013 helmet on head, jacket and pants on body, boots on feet, gloves on hands \u2013 you give yourself the best chance to walk away from a fall.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Motorcycling carries inherent risks, but many accidents are preventable.<\/p>\n<p>The three motorcycle dangers above \u2013 being struck by left-turning vehicles, losing control on corners, and riding with insufficient gear \u2013 account for a large share of serious motorcycle injuries and deaths. By adopting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/top-motorcycle-defensive-riding-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">defensive habits<\/a> (like covering your brake and scanning intersections), refining your riding skills (using visual cues and smooth throttle through turns), and always wearing certified protective gear, you can greatly reduce those risks.<\/p>\n<p>Remember: ride within your limits, stay visible, and never skimp on safety equipment. These steps won\u2019t eliminate all motorcycle dangers, but they stack the odds in your favor and help ensure you arrive home safely after every ride.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Motorcycling is fun and liberating, but motorcycle riders are more vulnerable on the road due to its hazards. Motorcyclists, as per U.S. traffic statistics, are roughly 29 more times inclined compared to car drivers to end up dying in a crash on a given mile traveled. Indeed, almost half of fatal two-vehicle motorcycle accidents consist [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":16495,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[94,32,29,95],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16481","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-education","category-motorcycle","category-safety","category-troubleshoot"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16481","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16481"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16481\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16505,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16481\/revisions\/16505"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16495"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16481"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16481"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16481"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}