If you are planning a trip across the country on a motorcycle, there are some important things to keep in mind before embarking on your journey. Most relate to your safety along the trip while others are for ensuring the journey is worthwhile.
Preparations for Your Trip
It is very important to be physically prepared for the ride, which may be gruelling in some areas. Your body must be well-conditioned in the run-up to the cross country trip. Here are a couple of other things you need to do:
- Plan the route you are going to take. This is a critical part of your trip and perhaps the most important. You can incorporate GPS or tried-and-tested paper maps. Determine the distance you are going to cover and what time it will take you. Consider the different weather conditions along your route so that you are well prepared for anything in terms of the clothes you pack.
The scenery is another important step in your route planning. One of the reasons people plan to travel cross-country on a motorcycle is for the views. Ensure that you incorporate the scenic routes in your plan, too. Other factors to keep in mind when drawing up your route are obstacles you might face, accommodations, and fuel stops.
- Ensure your bike is well-serviced. This is a no-brainer. Before starting the journey, you need to ensure that the bike is in good condition to travel the identified distance without breaking down. A trip to the mechanic can potentially save you a lot of mechanical troubles during your trip.
Pack some spare parts that you think you will need along the way. If your bike’s engine is not up to the task, consider renting one that is capable of travelling the gruelling miles ahead.
- If possible, get some company. There is safety in numbers, as the saying goes, and having some company may be helpful in case of any eventualities, including accidents. Besides, having a couple of friends tagging along will make the journey more exciting and memorable.
- Get plenty of rest before and along the way. The journey may be wearying, and fatigue will set in somewhere along the way. Besides dulling your entire experience, riding when fatigued makes you prone to crashes. Make sure you have enough time for rest built into your trip schedule.
- Ensure the correct riding posture during your trip, and pack up some essential and personal supplies that you think you’ll need.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
As a rider, you are less visible on the road. It’s important to wear safety gear such as helmets and reflective clothing. Avoid overspeeding and pulling off stunts or risky manoeuvres such as lane splitting.
A recent report indicates that accidents involving motorcyclists have been on the rise. Remain extra vigilant on the road while being wary of other motorists, as well.
Stay away from alcohol and other drugs. This will make sure that you are fully alert and quick to react in case of anything.
In the Event of a Crash
Taking every precaution does not make you immune to a crash, given that some actions are out of your hands. In the unfortunate event that you are involved in a crash, it is advisable to contact the authorities right away, then look up motorcycle accident lawyers in that area. Notify your insurance company and get medical attention immediately.
Given that you are travelling across different states, your lawsuit is undoubtedly safer in the hands of an attorney. The lawyer will navigate the legal jurisdiction of individual states to ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries and other damages.