Motorcyclists are far more likely than motorists to be hurt or killed in traffic accidents. For this reason, it’s important for motorcyclists to wear safety gear at all times. However, many motorcyclists make the mistake of wearing the wrong type of gear that offers them little or no protection in the event of a crash. To protect yourself, follow these tips to choose the right motorcycle safety gear:
Helmet
The helmet you purchase should have a sticker that indicates it meets the minimum safety standards established by the Department of Transportation (DOT). You will also need to try the helmet on prior to purchasing it. If it’s a brand new helmet, it should feel slightly tight, but it should not put an uncomfortable amount of pressure on your head. If you notice any sore spots after taking the helmet off, it’s best to look for a bigger size.
Jackets
Motorcyclists should choose a jacket based on its safety features, not its appearance. Look for a jacket with armor protecting the ribs, shoulders, and arms. The armor should have a CE safety rating that indicates the level of protection it offers.
Try the jacket on to check its fit. Ideally, the jacket should fit snugly throughout the abdomen, but it should not be too tight on your arms. If you are struggling to move your arms, the jacket needs to be bigger.
Gloves
Keep the jacket on while you try on different pairs of gloves designed for motorcyclists. The gloves should have a strap that wraps around your wrist so you don’t have to worry about them sliding off while you ride. It’s also important that there is no gap between the jacket and the gloves. The jacket sleeve should overlap with the gloves to protect every inch of your skin.
Pants
Similar to the jacket, the pants should have armor in the hips, knees, and shins with a CE safety rating. Put the pants on before buying them so you can check the fit. They should fit snugly, but they should still be comfortable to wear. It’s recommended that you either hop on a bike or squat down into your standard riding position to see how the pants feel.
Even if you wear all of this safety gear, it’s possible that you could be injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver. If this happens to you, seek legal representation from the personal injury attorneys at Reisch Law Firm at once. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
