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You can make yourself and your motorcycle more visible

On Behalf of | May 15, 2017 | blog

Statistics from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety show that there were 134 motorcycle crash fatalities in the state in 2012. Of these, more than half were riders aged 40 and above. When you are a motorist, looking for motorcycles is not high on your list of priorities. When you are a biker, visibility is a chief concern.

One way to increase visibility is to become a more colorful figure, but older motorcyclists especially love to wear black, and many have black bikes — and you may be a member of this group. Even so, there are steps you can take to make yourself more easily visible.

Apply reflective tape

Using reflective tape is about the cheapest way to increase your visual footprint. Put it on your sleeves and add a big patch to the back of your vest or jacket. Apply it to the front forks of your motorcycle and to any other part of your bike that is at a distance from a light source, such as your panniers, and make yourself look like a much larger object after dark.

Employ LED technology

Light Emitting Diodes, or LEDs, last longer than standard light bulbs, and you can put several of them in the space normally used by one of those bulbs. They put out a lot of light but do not require much electric power. Consider using LED turn signals. When not activated, they give off a bright running light; when you use them, motorists will see an even brighter, blinking light.

Use high-visibility gear

You may not want to trade in your black Harley for a bright yellow Yamaha, but you could add more color to your riding wardrobe. High-visibility yellow or orange in a helmet or vest catches the eye of a motorist, and even if it is just for a second, the driver sees you and knows where you are. Mission accomplished.

Anticipate the unexpected

As a biker, you never want to be the victim in a traffic accident. Even though you are vigilant and make some changes to become more visible, the unexpected could happen. If you should suffer injuries in a motorcycle crash, be thankful that you have not become a statistic on the Georgia Governor’s list. Reach out to a personal injury attorney who can provide the support and experienced representation you deserve.

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