When you are a passenger in a car, your main responsibility is making sure you buckle your seatbelt. Of course, you don’t want to be a distraction or a hindrance to the driver. But what about being a motorcycle passenger? Is it as simple as being a passenger in a car?
Loving the Ride!
Nowadays, more people are taking to riding motorcycles and pairing up. Touring the open road on a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience. This is especially true when you are sharing the experience with someone who loves the road as much as you do. When you are a passenger, there are some things you should be aware of in order to make the ride safe for both of you. If you are the driver, you’ll want to make sure your passenger is aware of these safety measures.
Dressing the Part of a Good Motorcycle Passenger
For safety, you definitely want to dress the part. Always wear a helmet that meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. DOT-certified helmets are strongly recommended. Florida’s universal helmet law was repealed in 2000. Motorcycle riders over the age of 21 are not required to wear a helmet, but if they don’t, they must have $10,000 in medical payment insurance. Under age 21? Put the helmet on. A full-face helmet will keep the bugs out of your eyes and mouth. You definitely want eye protection while riding.
Wearing protective gear will save your hide in the event of an accident. It will also keep you comfortable during your ride. You’ll see many cyclists wearing leather. This is for protection in case of a spill. At the very least, be sure to wear thick pants and a jacket. Gloves and proper boots or footwear will protect your hands and feet. Dress appropriately for the weather. You don’t want to get overheated when the weather is warm. By the same token, riding when you’re freezing can be miserable.
Get Educated About the Motorcycle
Riding can be a little tricky, especially for the motorcycle passenger. Leg burns from the muffler can be pretty bad. There are also parts of the bike that can pinch. If you’re the driver, be sure to point out these things to your passenger. If you are a passenger and unfamiliar with motorcycles, ask your driver about these things, if he or she fails to school you on them before the ride.
Learning the Moves
A big part of being a good motorcycle passenger is learning the moves required for a safe ride. They may seem awkward or even counter-intuitive, but once you get the hang of it, your ride will be safer and much more enjoyable. As a passenger, your extra weight will impact the maneuverability of the bike. You’ll need to learn about always hanging on, leaning into turns and keeping your feet on the pegs, even while the bike is stopped.
Being a motorcycle passenger can be very enjoyable. Understanding your responsibilities as a passenger will make your ride safer. At Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., we encourage people to enjoy the moment, live life to the fullest and practice safety.
As specialists in personal injury law, we know how lives can change in the blink of an eye. When you have legal questions about a personal injury issue, contact us. Your first consultation is free. We proudly serve those living in the southwestern Florida area with offices located in Port Charlotte, North Port, and Englewood.