Did you know that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than drivers of cars? It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise considering that bikes don’t offer the protection of airbags and steel like cars. But even while riding a vehicle that offers less protection, you can still equip yourself with safety gear to reduce your risk of injury, or even death.

Helmet

Without question, a well-fitted motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Selecting a helmet requires your careful consideration, as it may be the only thing between your head and the asphalt during a fall. A good helmet should fit snugly all around your head and face, with no wiggle room at all. Among your best options are those that have been certified by safety testing agencies like the Snell Memorial Foundation.

Gloves and Boots

Apart from protecting your hands and feet from impact, it’s also prudent to safeguard them from the elements as you ride. Wind whipping into your knuckles can grow quite uncomfortable after a while. Motorcycle gloves block these effects, while protecting your hands from scrapes and cuts during a fall. Similarly, motorcycle boots protect your feet, ankles and lower legs. Many are built with rigid plastic around the ankle bones for extra protection. Not to mention, the thick rubber soles aid with traction.

Clothing

Leather jackets aren’t just a biker fashion trend. The thick material protects your skin during a fall, helping your body slide rather than tumble. Falling “properly” helps reduce your chance of injury on the way down. You can purchase a ventilated leather jacket for riding in warmer weather, or you can select a jacket made from another material that is designed for motorcyclists. Whatever you choose, remember that a long-sleeved jacket will always provide more protection than a t-shirt.

Body Armor

For extra protection, there are various types of body armor—made of foam or impact-resistant plastic—on the market. Some armor is designed to wear underneath your clothing, while some motorcycle jackets and pants have armor built into them. If you should fall, body armor offers invaluable protection from a variety of injuries.

Another way to stay safe is getting the right coverage. Call The Weimer Group at (877) 791-1707 for more information on Allentown motorcycle insurance.