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3 ways motorcyclists can boost visibility on the road

Car accidents happen every day in the state of Ohio and cause injuries, property damage and sometimes even death. Of accidents that include fatalities, many involve motorcycles. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, 157 motorcyclists were killed in accidents in 2017. How can motorcyclists stay safe on the road and prevent such tragic accidents from taking place?

Many of these accidents are preventable and happen because motorcycles are simply less visible on the road than a truck or a car might be. To prevent accidents, then, motorcyclists should try to be as visible as possible. There are a few ways to accomplish this, including the following tips:

1. Reflective clothing

One of the easiest ways motorcyclists can boost their visibility is wearing protective clothing that is also reflective. The kind of attire you wear has a big impact on how visible you are, so choosing bright clothes that are reflective can make your body more visible than dark-colored or non-reflective clothing. Colors such as orange, yellow and white are best for bikers to wear because they tend to reflect light. 

2. Brighter headlamps

In addition to making your own body more visible, you can reduce the likelihood of motorcycle accidents by making your bike more visible, too. A great way to do this is investing in a brighter headlamp that is more visible to surrounding drivers. Many types of bulbs available for motorcycle headlamps exist, and some are brighter than others. Look for one that maximizes your bike’s visibility and shines brightly.

3. Loud muffler

While making your bike louder may not necessarily make it more visible, it could make it easier for surrounding drivers to notice you. Loud mufflers are often a point of complaint, but contrary to popular belief, they are not a purposeless nuisance. Making your bike more audible is another way to make it more difficult for drivers to miss, and that can minimize the chances of an accident, too.