Motorcyclists face certain risks when they ride, regardless of the time of year they choose to ride. The use of motorcycle safety equipment and safety apparel is one way that riders can reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident. Because summer months are warmer, many riders choose to swap out their winter riding gear for lighter, more comfortable options. Below are several summer safety apparel ideas and tips that can make riding during hotter months more comfortable and enjoyable.
Motorcycle Helmets
An essential piece of safety equipment for every motorcyclist is a motorcycle helmet. It is estimated that motorcycle helmets saved 1,859 lives in 2016. In addition to saving lives, motorcycle helmets significantly reduce the risk of head and brain injuries in a motorcycle accident. In Maryland, all riders are required to wear a DOT certified motorcycle helmet.
However, during the summer months, many motorcyclists prefer helmets that may be lighter and more comfortable. Riders may have different helmets for different seasons and riding conditions. Vented helmets are a popular choice during the summer. Vented motorcycle helmets provide for more airflow to keep a rider cooler.
Mesh Gloves
It may be tempting to go without motorcycle gloves during the summer, but it is not advisable. Instead, many motorcyclists choose mesh gloves. These lightweight gloves are cooler while providing some protection from the sun and road rash, in case of an accident. Fingerless gloves are also another option for summer motorcycle safety apparel.
Cooling Motorcycle Vest
If you intend to ride in extreme heat, you may want to invest in a cooling vest. A cooling vest can be soaked in water and worn under a vented motorcycle jacket. The cooling vest draws heat away from the body during a ride.
Mesh Motorcycle Pants
Riders can also choose mesh motorcycle pants to keep cool during summer rides. However, motorcyclists need to balance the risk of injury with comfort. Choosing mesh motorcycle pants that also have some padding provides more protection in the event of a motorcycle accident.
Vented Motorcycle Boots
Riders need to continue to wear solid motorcycle boots during the summer to protect themselves from injury. However, there are several types of vented motorcycle boots that can help keep a rider’s feet and legs cooler during the summer. Riders can also use moisture-wicking socks with vented motorcycle boots to help keep feet dry during the hotter months.
Moisture-Wicking Base Layers
Leather clothing is still one of the best materials to protect riders from lacerations and road rash during a motorcycle crash. However, wearing this material during the summer can be uncomfortable. Adding moisture-wicking base layers under leather motorcycle jackets and pants can help keep a rider dry and comfortable if the rider chooses to weather leather jackets and pants year-round.
Don’t Forget to Keep Your Motorcycle Cool During the Summer
You also need to take steps to keep your motorcycle cool and functioning correctly during the hotter summer months. It is a good idea to have your motorcycle checked at the beginning of summer and before any long rides. Every few weeks, riders should check and replenish fluids, check hoses, and clean the cooler and radiator.
Under-inflated tires can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident. Keep a close check on the tire pressure throughout the summer months to ensure that the motorcycle tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Riders may want to carry a portable pump and patch kit on long trips in case of an emergency on the road.
Keep Yourself Hydrated and Safe During Summer Motorcycle Trips
Riders need to understand the dangers of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Riders need to stay hydrated while riding and take regular breaks when riding in hot summer months. It can be dangerous to ride for long distances without breaks on hot days.
When riders stop, they need to find shade to rest and hydrate before continuing on the ride. If possible, stop at a convenience store or other public facility with air conditioning. Packing plenty of water, sunscreen, and allergy medication for insect stings can help riders stay safe during summer trips.
Contact a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Review
The Pinder Plotkin legal team hopes you have a safe and enjoyable summer. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, we are here to help you with your insurance claim and accident claim. We offer free case reviews so that you can get the information you need regarding an injury claim.
Contact our office by calling 410-661-9440 to schedule your FREE consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney in Maryland.
