The Benefits of Taking a Motorcycle Safety Course This Riding Season

Riding a motorcycle is a passion for many, including the managing partner of Proner & Proner, Mitchell Proner. However, it can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Mitchell Proner knows this firsthand as he is a motorcycle accident survivor himself. There are many ways that riders can stay more visible and safer on the roads this summer. However, Mitchell has discussed one method on the Proner & Proner live cast: taking a motorcycle safety course. Even the most experienced riders can benefit from a refresher course.

Here are some of the benefits of taking a motorcycle safety course:

Learn proper riding techniques: One of the most important benefits of taking a motorcycle safety course is learning appropriate motorcycle safety techniques. This is strongly suggested for new riders. These courses include properly balancing and controlling the bike to navigating corners and curves. These techniques will help you ride more safely and give you more confidence on the road. You will also meet other motorcycle enthusiasts and connect with experienced riders teaching the class.

Get familiar with the rules of the road: The laws surrounding operating a motorcycle on highways or local roads can vary from place to place. But a motorcycle safety course will teach you general the rules of the road and others apply specifically to motorcycle riders in your area. You will learn how to properly use your turn signals, how to position yourself in traffic, and how to navigate intersections. Learning how to navigate an intersection might be the most important lesson, as many motorcycle accidents happen when left-turning vehicles fail to see the motorcycle in an intersection. Knowing and following these rules and tips can significantly reduce your risk of getting into an accident, or if you are in accident, it may reduce the injuries you may get.

Learn how to avoid common hazards: A good motorcycle safety class will also teach you how to identify and avoid common dangers on the road, such as potholes, debris, and wet or slippery surfaces. You will learn how to recognize and respond to other drivers who may not see you or may be driving recklessly. Sadly, the most significant hazard to motorcycle riders is drivers of cars, trucks, and SUVs who are distracted by cell phones or other common distractions while driving.

Practice emergency maneuvers: In addition to learning proper riding techniques, you may also get the opportunity to practice emergency maneuvers such as sudden stops and evasive maneuvers. These skills could save your life in the event of an accident. As Mitchell Proner has said many times, you can always get a new bike but can’t get a new leg!

Save money on insurance: Many insurance companies offer discounts to riders who have completed a motorcycle safety course. This can save you money on your insurance premiums while giving you peace of mind knowing you have the skills and knowledge necessary to ride safely.

Most motorcycle rights organizations like ABATE and COIR recommend taking a motorcycle safety course. They recommend a course even for seasoned riders to enhance safely and confidently on the road. If you’re a new rider or want to improve your skills, consider signing up for a motorcycle safety course.

If you are interested in taking a motorcycle safety course this riding season, several motorcycle safety courses are available in New York City. Here are a few options:

New York State Motorcycle Safety Program (NYSMSP): The NYSMSP offers a variety of motorcycle safety courses throughout the state, including in New York City. They offer classes for beginner and experienced riders and courses that focus on specific skills such as cornering or highway riding.

Motorcycle Safety School (MSS): The Motorcycle Safety School has several locations in New York City and offers courses for riders of all skill levels. They offer courses for those seeking a motorcycle license and advanced courses for experienced riders. They also offer courses for three-wheel vehicles!

Hudson Valley Motorcycle Safety (HVMS): HVMS offers motorcycle safety courses at several locations in the New York City area, including in Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx. They offer courses for beginner and experienced riders and courses that focus on specific skills such as cornering and emergency braking. These courses are offered through the Hudson Valley Community College. If you are a student and want to begin or are already a motorcycle rider and are home for the summer, this is a great way to get some training.

No matter which motorcycle safety course you choose, research and choose a reputable school that meets your needs and budget. It’s also important to remember that completing a motorcycle safety course is just the beginning of your journey as a safe and responsible rider, and continued education and practice are crucial to staying safe on the road.

What to do if you are in an accident anyway:

Taking a motorcycle safety course will help you drive defensively, but they do not guarantee that you will not be in an accident with a car, truck, or SUV. If you end up in a motorcycle accident, get yourself to safety if possible. If you have been injured, do not try to remove your helmet if it causes pain. Call an ambulance immediately for help and get the medical attention you need. If you can, make sure you get the driver of the car, truck, or SUV’s information. If you are riding with a friend and they can help you, get the names of any witnesses and ask them if you can take photos of the accident scene.

Finally, call an experienced motorcycle rider and motorcycle accident attorney when you can. By hiring a lawyer that rides like Mitchell Proner, you will receive the best legal representation possible. No one can understand what you have been through better than a personal injury attorney who has also been injured while riding. In addition to his compassionate understanding, Mitchell Proner has successfully litigated more motorcycle accident cases than any other attorney in New York.