Louisville Motorcycle Safety - Travelling with Passengers

Louisville motorcycle safety is everyone’s responsibility. We all need to take care when sharing the road with other vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and motorcycles.

Motorcycle riders also need to consider the safety of their passengers as well, since their passengers may not be as familiar with the operation of a motorcycle as they are.

Here are some tips to properly protecting your passenger as a Louisville motorcycle rider:

1. Most important, be sure that your motorcycle is designed to carry a passenger. Review your owner’s manual for tips on riding with passengers, and to check for any weight limitations that may be suggested.
2. When riding with a passenger for the first time, practice at low speeds in a clear area, such as a parking lot. This will also give the passenger time to adjust to the speed and feel of riding, and also the sensation of leaning. Take this time to provide some guidance to your passenger about sudden movements or turns.
3. If your passenger is a child, it is important to make sure they are mature enough to manage the responsibilities of being a motorcycle passenger, can reach the footrests, and has the appropriate protective clothing and helmet for the ride. Do keep in mind that some states have a minimum age requirement for passengers.
4. Especially if your passenger has not previously been on a motorcycle, show your passenger where to properly keep their legs in order to avoid burns from the muffler. Demonstrate the location of any other hot or moving parts that the passenger should keep themselves clear from.
5. Extra weight from carrying a passenger can affect braking procedures, starting from a stop, and riding through a corner – always keep this well in mind. Carrying a passenger also requires greater time and space when passing, and can make the effects of wind more noticeable.

Louisville motorcycle riding can be a fun activity to share with friends, but including a passenger in this fun pastime does involve added responsibility, and additional opportunities for injury. Take the time to prepare yourself and your passenger to make sure your excursion is a success.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle or automobile accident, consult a Louisville Personal Injury Attorney today to discuss your case.

Schedule your free initial consultation to discuss your case with Louisville personal injury attorney, Richard Breen, at 2950 Breckenridge Lane Suite 3, Louisville, KY 40220 if you are in a car accident. You can call at 502-473-0579.