How can motorcyclists improve visibility?

It is a fact that wearing proper gear while riding a motorcycle saves lives. It is also true that many motorcyclists across the United States opt to not wear potentially life-saving protective clothing.

Not only is it important to wear proper gear in the instance of a crash, but certain types of gear could help you avoid an accident altogether. According to Forbes Magazine, the main reason behind the deaths of many motorcyclists is that drivers could not see them.

How can gear help drivers see me?

Typically, when somebody pictures a motorcyclist, it is likely that they are thinking about somebody wearing a black leather jacket with black boots. It is also true that when motorcyclists do wear protective gear, they typically choose to do so in darker colors.

However, wearing darker colors can make you less visible on the back of a bike. Since motorcycles have such a slimmer profile than cars, many passenger vehicle operators have a hard time seeing motorcyclists in the first place. Motorcyclists dressed in dark clothing are even less visible.

Why do more motorcyclists not wear high-visibility gear?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the reason why more motorcyclists do not wear bright gear is due to aesthetics. Additionally, many motorcycle enthusiasts are loyal to a particular brand of gear. If that brand does not offer enough high-visibility offerings, the motorcyclist is less likely to purchase high-visibility gear.

In response, many motorcycle companies are beginning to offer more options in brighter colors. Make sure to pay attention to the type of gear that you wear when you get on the back of your bike. Bright colors could save your life.