Why Do Motorcyclists Wear Leather?

The moment you step into your car, you get to control your environment. In the summer, you can blast the AC to keep cool, while in the winter, you can crank up the heat to stay warm. Motorcyclists don’t have that luxury. They are constantly exposed to the elements, which is why they need special protection, and it is one of the reasons why motorcyclists wear leather.

Leather is a tough material that stands up to harsh weather. It isn’t completely waterproof, but it repels water, so it doesn’t seep into what you’re wearing underneath. You have to remember to treat the leather for added protection. Leather is also a good layer of protection against blowing winds.

There are many other benefits for motorcyclists who opt to wear leather, though.

How Wearing Leather Benefits Motorbike Riders in Mississippi

As hinted at above, donning leather can be helpful to motorcyclists in the following ways:

Crash Protection

Mississippi has a helmet law that requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets that meet the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standards. Bottom line: You have to wear a helmet, but you don’t have to wear leather.

You have to wear a helmet, but you don’t have to wear leather. However, leather does provide support for crash protection. Every motorcycle accident that involves a spill means the ride comes in contact with the road. At high speeds, motorcyclists can be injured by road rash lacerations. Leather jackets and pants can reduce the severity of the road rash.

Your leather jackets must be real leather, not a substitute. Genuine leather is more durable than imitation. You can also find specially designed leather jackets for motorcyclists with body armor padding for optimal protection.

Convenient Storage

Leather jackets often have zippered and interior pockets that provide secure storage for wallets, phones, and other essential items. You don’t want anything sliding out of your pants pockets while on the road.

Durability

Unlike most other fabrics, leather lasts for years, even with exposure to the elements. A well-made leather jacket can be worn for ten years or more. Yes, the cost might be higher than a textile jacket, but if it lasts for decades, it is a smart investment. If you treat the leather with the recommended coating, it will be easy to maintain.

Getting Road Ready for a Motorcycle Ride

Once you have a driver’s license, you can use the same skills to switch between cars. You can’t switch from a car to a motorcycle without acquiring unique skills and a motorcycle license. In Mississippi, you are required to take a designated skills test before you are granted a license. Once you have your license, you need to follow these other tips to get ready for your motorcycle ride:

Practice Safe Riding Skills

New car drivers are the most vulnerable to getting into an accident because they lack the confidence to handle the road. Practice helps boost a driver’s confidence. That also works for new motorcyclists. You should find open roads or empty parking lots to practice your riding skills.

Inspect Your Motorbike

Before you get on the bike, you should do a quick check of the following items:

• Tire pressure
• Tread depth
• Hand and foot brakes
• Headlights
• Brake lights
• Signal indicators
• Fluid levels

Secure Your Cargo

If you’re carrying cargo, you want to make sure it is properly secured and balanced. If you’re carrying a passenger, you have to remind them to sit forward, keep both feet on the footrests, and avoid the muffler.

Follow the Rules of the Road

Motorcyclists have to be extra cautious when on the road. Car drivers might not be able to see you in their blind spots. You must obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits, and lane markings. You also have to leave plenty of room between your bike and the other cars on the road.

Get Help If a Motorcycle Accident Injured You

Even with all the precautions you take as a motorcycle rider, you can still find yourself involved with vehicle drivers who aren’t as responsible. If you get into an accident while riding your motorcycle in Mississippi, you don’t have to go through the claim process alone. The attorneys at Pittman, Roberts & Welsh, PLLC can provide the guidance to help you make informed decisions about how to find a remedy for your losses.