The Importance Of Motorcycle Safety Gear

The Importance Of Motorcycle Safety Gear

By Emil Suarez

Road safety is of paramount importance and motorcycle safety even more so. There's no cabin to protect riders during collisions, no airbags or collapsible steering columns. It's the rider, the machine and the environment.

According to statistics, motorcycle riders are 35 times more likely to crash with every mile traveled compared to drivers in a passenger car. That's a huge number and one that should compel riders to don safety gear. Young riders are even more at risk as the thrill of speeding down an open road can trump good sense.

Global statistics are difficult to collect but studies say that accident rates are increasing despite better motorcycles and safety systems. The fault, then, lies not with the bikes themselves - though poorly maintained machines are more likely to fail - but with riders who shirk the responsibility of being properly armored.

To drive the point home, national studies show that the years between 2005 and 2009 saw 762 single-vehicle bike crashes and 1,049 multi-vehicle accidents. The figures may seem low considering the four-year span but bear in mind that the accidents resulted in severe and fatal injuries.

Now that the numbers have been presented, let's look at exactly how safety gear can cut the severity of accidents by more than half.

Helmets

Most severe or fatal injuries are due to head trauma. Fractures to the limbs are undoubtedly painful and can result in loss of full motor function but damage to the head can kill a person. Helmets are designed keeping in mind protection to key areas of the skull. They also have protective sections that cover the chin, jaw and most of the face. Visors may be attached but not necessarily in the case of half helmets. These visors protect the eyes against dust, insects and debris and also the face in case of a crash.

Eyewear

Eyewear in the likes of safety goggles and glasses must be worn in the absence of a face shield or visor. They guard against irritants like dust and pests and also enable riders wearing prescription glasses to travel with no problem. Many are specially designed to accommodate prescription glasses, a feature not available with helmets and face shields.

Another benefit of eyewear is the ability to change lenses. Unfavorable light conditions can hamper visibility whether during fog, under direct sunlight or driving at night. Being able to change lenses means visibility and safety are increased.

Armor

Armor refers to protective covering for the torso. It can resemble a bullet proof vest or a complete jacket. The outer area has a tough shell (protecting vital organs) that only high impact can crack while the inner area is padded for comfort and warmth. Off-road riders make regular use of body armor but even street riders benefit.

Ventilation and some rain protection are guaranteed with most armor so riders don't have to worry about working up a sweat or generating excess body heat.

These are just three types of safety gear every rider should wear especially if going off-road or driving long distance. There are gloves, boots, pants, jackets and neck and hip guards as well. Trusted manufacturers are the best source even if one has to spend a small fortune. Remember, that amount is nothing compared to what medical bills can run into when treating injuries.

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