LAS VEGAS, Nevada. Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and freeing, but when you ride, you are also more exposed to the elements and to the mistakes of other drivers. While motorcyclists tend to be among the safest drivers out there, taking the extra time to check your equipment can offer you that added level of safety you need before you hit the road. According to Motorcyclist, a pre-ride safety check can take as little as 5 minutes and it could save your life. Here are ten essential pre-ride checks you can perform:
- Check your gas. If you ride only occasionally, you may have forgotten that you didn’t fill up at the end of your last ride.
- Tire pressure. Having the proper pressure on your tires is essential for safety. Low-pressure will make your bike harder to brake and handle. Properly filled tires will ensure you have the traction you need should you hit a puddle or gravel.
- Check your oil.
- Check your chain. Chain failure can result in lost control of your bike or result in your rear wheel locking. Even the most skilled riders would have difficulty in this kind of situation, so check your chain and fix a problem before it becomes critical.
- Check your lights. Before you ride, check your signals, tail lights, and headlights. If you don’t ride your bike often, it is wise to check these systems before hitting the road.
- Check cables. Cables rarely snap in a single ride. Snapped cables were most likely quite frayed for some time before they broke. Check for even slight signs of wear.
- Check brakes. Being able to brake is essential to safety. Check your brakes and give your brakes a few squeezes before you ride. You should expect to feel the same kind of firmness you felt during your last ride.
- Inspect your helmet for cracks and wear and make sure it fits properly before you take off.
- T-CLOCK. According to Cruiser, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends you go over the T-CLOCK pre-ride safety check. This mnemonic will help you remember all the essentials. T stands for tires and wheels. C stands for controls. L stands for lights and electrical systems. O stands for oil. C stands for chassis. And K stands for kickstand. If you go over these essentials, you should be set to go. If you don’t know how to go over these basics, consider taking a motorcycle safety course. Knowing your equipment and how to check it is critical for safety.
- The most important pre-ride safety check you need to do has nothing to do with equipment and everything to do with your own attitude and knowledge. Review your route. Are you prepared for the challenges ahead? Do you have the training to handle the terrain? Have you taken a motorcycle safety course? Even if you have taken one, do you think you need a refresher course? Are you well-rested and feeling confident? Finally, never drink and drive. Many accidents can be prevented by avoiding drugs and alcohol.
Motorcycle safety begins with the rider, but unfortunately, in many cases, when riders are injured, they are hurt due to the negligence and neglect of another driver on the road. Drivers may not be aware of riders, they may be texting and driving, or they may be driving drunk. When motorcyclists are hit, they don’t have the protective chassis of a car on their side. If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas, Nevada consider speaking to the Truman Law Firm, P.C. Our firm fights for the rights of riders in Las Vegas, Nevada. We may be able to help you seek damages to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Visit us today at http://trumanlawfirm.com/ to learn more.
