Always put safety first when you head out on the road. The thrill of motorcycle riding creates fun and excitement, but like most driving activities, it poses risks. Fortunately, following simple safety tips every time you ride can help you avoid those risks. Follow these suggestions to help protect yourself on the road:

Know the law

Regulations for operating motorcycles and using safety gear, such as helmets, differ across the country. Check with local law enforcement or the Department of Motor Vehicles in the areas where you'll be riding to find out their laws and be sure to follow them.

Prepare ahead

Make sure you and your bike have the appropriate licenses before you ride. Get insurance to properly protect you and your passengers.

Find out current road conditions and avoid unnecessary risks if conditions are unfavorable. Take extra precautions on wet pavement as oils from other vehicles and moisture tend to make pavement slick. Read your owner's manual and make sure you take it and a tool kit with you on the road.

Gear up

Always wear protective gear to safeguard you in case of an accident. For optimum protection wear a helmet; eye protection; a sturdy jacket; long, thick pants; boots and gloves.

Stand out

Brightly colored clothes will help you stand out in traffic and make other drivers aware of you. While you ride, keep your headlight on, avoid other vehicles' blind spots, drive defensively and prepare to use your horn.

Distance yourself

Always leave adequate space between you and the vehicle in front of you. That may be your only way out if the car behind you fails to stop in time. Allow enough space for you to react and protect your safe zone. When turning, start on the outside of the curve to give yourself additional visibility ahead and increase your safe space.

Position yourself

When riding, make the left wheel track of a four-wheeled vehicle your main lane position. Yet, when following another vehicle or coming to a stop, move to the right side of the lane to make yourself more conspicuous and create a space for you to exit if you need to.

Ride defensively

Most motorcycle accidents involve collisions with cars and occur because the car driver did not see the motorcycle. Stay aware of what other drivers on the road are doing. Scan around you - in front, to the side and behind. Make a mental note of what is there and prepare to react. Be wary of cars waiting to turn left across your path at intersections in case they do not see you.

Stay sharp

Alcohol, certain medications and fatigue all impair your ability to reason and make sound judgments. Up to 45% of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve alcohol. So, ride only when your senses are sharp and make sure you get enough rest on long trips. NEVER drink and then drive.

Check it out

Be sure to check that your bike runs properly before getting on the road. Always inspect mirrors, tire pressure, fuel level, gauges and suspension. Follow the recommended service schedule for your bike and have all repairs made by an authorized service provider.

Take care

If you take a passenger on the back of your bike, make sure they wear proper safety gear and instruct them on proper riding techniques. A rider's weight and movement can affect your bike's handling, so double check that road conditions are favorable and make sure your bike is in top condition.

Practice

Find a safe place or low-traffic area to practice braking, turning and improving your reaction time, especially if you are a new rider. Even if you're experienced, any practice you can get will help you hone your skills and make you a better - and safer - motorcycle rider.

Learn more

Improve your riding skills by taking a beginner or experienced Motorcycle Rider Course from a training center recognized by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

Safe Rider Checklist

Ask yourself these questions before you ride:

1. Do you know the motorcycle riding laws in the area where you plan to ride?
2. Do you and your bike have the proper licenses?
3. Do you have insurance you can count on from a specialty insurance expert?
4. Have you checked the road and weather conditions?
5. Have you read your motorcycle owner's manual?
6. Are you and your passenger wearing protective gear - helmet, eye protection, sturdy jacket, long pants, boots and gloves?
7. Are you wearing brightly colored clothes to help you stand out?
8. Have you inspected your bike to make sure it's running properly?
9. Have you shown your passenger proper riding techniques?
10. Have you practiced riding in a safe or low-traffic area?
11. Have you taken a motorcycle-riding course?
12. Are your senses sharp and are you alcohol-free?
13. Do you plan to have your headlight on at all times on the road?

These and other safety tips on this site will help keep your time on the road safe, fun and memorable.

Choose the program just for AARP Members

As an AARP motorcyclist, you can take to the road with confidence when you have insurance through the AARP Motorcycle Insurance Program from the Foremost Insurance Group of companies. With this program, you'll enjoy:

• Lifetime renewal of your policy (with certain conditions)
• First-Accident Waiver
• Annual policies with no lay-up period
• Helmet and safety apparel coverage
• Coverage for optional equipment
• Wide range of discounts
• 24-hour, toll-free claim reporting
• Expert claim service
• Broad coverage
• Convenient payment plans

To learn more

Check out more information about the AARP Motorcycle Insurance Program or request an online estimate today.

You can also call us for a no-obligation quote, toll-free, at 1-800-752-2461:

Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ( Eastern time )

All coverages and discounts may not be available in all areas. The Program is not available in some states, including Hawaii and Massachusetts.