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Proper Motorcycle Safety Gear

doug • Apr 18, 2017

Proper motorcycle safety gear helps you ride right

Safety Gear

 

 

Whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started, the right protective gear will help you have enjoyable and, most importantly, safe journeys. Even if you’re riding just a short distance, the fact that motorcycles don’t offer the same protections as other vehicles means that you need to take great care when you hit the road.

 

We here at Select Source Insurance want everyone on the road to reach their destination in one piece. So we’re providing some safety gear tips gleaned from motorcycle safety organizations, including the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and the American Motorcyclist Association.

 

Keep your head

Perhaps the most important piece of safety equipment for proper motorcycle safety gear — other than a well-maintained bike — is your helmet. Not only does a helmet protect your head in the event of a crash, the visors and face shields provide additional safety benefits along with a more enjoyable ride. You don’t really want to get hit in the face with a pebble or a bug on Hwy 9, do you? Full-face helmets also cut down on wind noise and can help reduce rider fatigue.

 

Always make sure your helmet has a secure fit and that any face-protection options you select allow you to easily see what’s around you.

 

It may be tempting to feel the wind in your hair as you ride along Hwy 9, but wearing a helmet should be a no-brainer when you consider the safety benefits.

 

Your feet and hands

Boots protect your feet and ankles from injury not only in a crash but also during the ride by providing a barrier against road debris and hot exhaust pipes. The right boot soles (oil-resistant, rubber-based composite) will help you keep your feet where they need to be — on the pegs.

 

And remember to protect your fingers! Gloves improve your grip and prevent abrasions and blisters. Just be sure that they fit properly so you can still work the controls of your bike.

 

The rest of your body

When it comes to clothing to wear while riding your bike, there are options for every style choice. Look for proper motorcycle safety gear protective gear designed specifically for motorcyclists – it will offer you the best protection while still allowing you to comfortably operate your bike.

 

There’s a reason many riders wear leather. It is extremely durable and protects against abrasions. Newer fabrics, however, also provide these benefits. Look for reflective strips or other features designed to help make you more visible to other drivers, or add your own reflective strips if needed.

 

If it’s windy, you’ll want to wear layers to help keep the wind from your body. If you ride in inclement weather, don a rain suit or other gear designed specifically for those times when the road ahead isn’t quite sunny. You can even look for clothing that features electric heat, which can make your journey a lot more comfortable.

 

Have the right gear

More Proper Motorcycle Safety Gear – Non-clothing items

Safety gear isn’t all about clothing. Some items to keep handy: a flat-tire repair kit, tire-pressure gauge, spare fuses and anything that might be of use for your particular bike. Remember to pack a flashlight, in case you end up on the side of the road in the dark. (And it can help keep you visible to passing traffic, which is always a real concern.)

 

We know that this list of safety gear sounds like a lot, but safe riding means being responsible. If you are looking to buy cool new gear to go with your bike, you might as well get the kind that will make you look good and help save you from injury.

 

 

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Other safety resources

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation ( http://www.msf-usa.org ) is a great resource to learn more about safety gear and motorcycling in general, as is the American Motorcyclist Association ( www.americanmotorcyclist.com ). We’re here to help, too! If you have questions about insurance coverage for your bike, or want more safety resources, give us a call at 864-585-8318 x2.

 

 

By Doug Stockman 09 Apr, 2024
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By Doug Stockman 12 Feb, 2024
In the hustle and bustle of today's corporate environment, it's no secret that most of us find ourselves glued to our desks for longer periods than what might be deemed healthy. This trend, unfortunately, has its downsides, including a noticeable decline in employee health and a consequent rise in paid time off and worker's compensation claims. Understanding the gravity of this situation, we at Select Source Insurance felt compelled to share some valuable insights into the world of ergonomic design. Implementing these strategies can not only enhance the well-being of your staff but also foster a more productive and comfortable office environment as we venture into 2024. 1. Workstation Setup: A well-adjusted workstation is fundamental to preventing back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. Ensure that chairs are set at a height where feet rest flat on the floor, and knees maintain a 90-degree angle. This posture helps in minimizing lower back stress. Opting for chairs with adequate back support, and keeping frequently used items like keyboards and mice within easy reach, are simple yet effective steps. Moreover, introducing adjustable standing desks and ergonomic office chairs can be a game-changer in enhancing comfort and minimizing strain injuries. 2. Monitor Placement and Glare: Eye strain and awkward postures can be significantly reduced by properly positioning monitors to avoid glare. Place screens at a right angle to windows and task lights, or adjust them away to prevent glare. If adjustments to screen angle aren't enough, consider using window blinds or altering room lighting to minimize bright light sources behind the screen. Ensuring the monitor is directly in front of you and at eye level will also help keep your head and neck from twisting, thereby preventing unnecessary strain. 3. Regular Breaks: Encourage your team to take short breaks every 30 to 60 minutes. These moments away from the desk, filled with stretching or walking around, can drastically lower the risk of strain injuries. For teams working from home, continue advocating for regular breaks to stand and move. For those in the office, why not organize outdoor lunches or stretching sessions? These breaks are not just beneficial for physical health but also for mental rejuvenation. Small changes in the workplace can lead to significant improvements in employee comfort, health, and overall productivity. As we embrace the new year, consider these ergonomic tips to create a healthier, more efficient work environment for your team. Should you have any questions or need further assistance on how to implement these ergonomic practices in your office, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Select Source Insurance. We're here to help you make 2024 a year of health, comfort, and productivity for you and your employees.
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