All too often, motorcycle accident attorneys see the unfortunate aftermath of motorcycle crashes. Using the appropriate motorcycle safety gear is one of the best ways for motorcyclists to remain safe while on the road. This holds true whether you are brand new to operating a motorcycle or you have been riding for decades. The following will outline the essential types of motorcycle safety gear that all Ohio riders should have, and what to look for when purchasing each item.
While most motorcyclists understand that wearing a helmet while riding is important, many have questions about how to choose the best helmet possible. The available options include full face, three-quarter, and one-half helmets. Full helmets offer the most coverage and protection possible for a person’s head, three-quarter helmets offer slightly less facial coverage, and one-half helmets only cover the top of a person’s head. Common sense would dictate that a half helmet offers a rider the least amount of protection should a motorcycle accident occur, though it is better than nothing. No matter which company manufactures the motorcycle helmet, it is critical to make certain that the helmet fits your head comfortably before purchasing.
Jackets are a critical piece of safety gear for motorcycle riders. There are numerous types of motorcycle jackets made from various tough and rugged materials. You should choose a riding jacket made from material that offers sufficient protection that also fits comfortably. If your jacket is too big or bulky or too small, it could restrict your movement and cause an accident.
A frequently overlooked piece of riding gear, the proper pants offer a motorcyclist important protection when accidents occur. Many motorcyclists purchase pants that will make them more visible while on the road – an added bonus. Much like motorcycle jackets, motorcycle pants are made from a number of different materials and it is important to select the ones that are right for you. Some of the factors that a rider should consider when purchasing motorcycle pants include the weather, the length of the ride involved, and the type of motorcycle that a person will be operating.
While a motorcyclist is able to purchase a jacket and pants separately, it is also possible to select a full bodysuit in either a one-piece or two-piece set. While one-piece suits are often more water resistant, two-piece suits are often a more practical option.
Motorcycle boots are designed with a number of unique considerations in mind, including built-in ankle protection and oil-resistant soles. Laces on motorcycle boots should also be located on the inside to avoid tangling in the motorcycle machinery. By making sure to only ride when wearing proper motorcycle boots, riders can reduce the risk that their feet end up trapped in the motorcycle before or during a crash.
Gloves are a critical piece of safety gear to protect a rider’s hands. While gloves can be made from a number of different types of materials, it is a wise idea to select a pair that offers additional padding for a rider’s fingers and a superior grip.
To obtain additional protection than the security offered by motorcycle jackets and pants, some riders decide to purchase body armor. If you choose this route, be sure that your armor fits snugly for maximum effectiveness.
Some riders decide to ride with additional protection in the form of elbow and knee guards, which can help to prevent some of the most common injuries that occur during motorcycle accidents. These guards are often adjustable and should fit snugly to the rider’s body.
Some motorcyclists opt to utilize protective eyewear in addition to a helmet to make sure they are protected in all situations. Motorcycle glasses are unique from standard sunglasses in that motorcycle glasses offer impact protection and contain padding to protect riders from flying debris.
It is the sad truth that serious motorcycle accidents happen all the time on Ohio’s roadways, often leaving motorcyclists with debilitating and life-altering injuries. All motorcycle riders should wear the proper safety gear to protect themselves in case of an accident. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident and another party was responsible, you should reach out to a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney for help right away. Contact Kruger & Hodges today to schedule your free initial consultation and learn about your legal options toward pursuing compensation.
