5 Wintertime Risks for Motorcyclists

Statistically speaking, the most dangerous time of year to be on the road is winter. Visibility is poorer, road surfaces are slick with rain and ice, and mechanical failures are more common.

What’s more, the most dangerous vehicles are motorcycles and mopeds, which offer limited protection to the rider in the event of a collision.

If you’re riding a motorcycle during winter, then, you’ll need to be extra cautious. Let’s take a look at a few key steps you might take to lower your personal risk.

Slipping on Ice or Snow

When the road is covered with water, tyres will have greater difficulty maintaining a grip. If the water is frozen solid, then traction might be even worse. This can increase the risk of aquaplaning and sliding. If you’re on two wheels, these problems can often result in the vehicle coming out from beneath you.

There are a number of precautions to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to favour winter tyres. These maintain their shape better in cold weather, and they offer deeper treads for dispersing water.

Second, you’ll want to lower your speed. The faster you’re travelling, the more difficulty you’ll have controlling a slide, and the more consequential and dangerous the slide is likely to be. Avoid sudden changes in direction and acceleration.

Finally, you’ll want to favour major roads that have been treated with salt. Minor, country roads are more likely to be slippery.

Reduced Visibility Collisions

During winter, you might have difficulty seeing the road ahead of you. It might be foggy, or snowy, or simply dark. Other road users, for the same set of reasons, might have difficulty seeing you. This is something that’s easier to address. Wear high-visibility equipment, including reflective and phosphorescent armbands and jackets. Make sure that your lights are clean, and that they work properly. Carry spare bulbs so that you can make replacements where necessary.

If possible, you’ll want to stay off the roads when visibility is poor. There’s no sense in heading out in the fog if you can reasonably avoid it.

Loss of Control Due to Black Ice

Of all the weather-related problems you’ll be dealing with, the phenomenon of ‘black’ ice is arguably the most dangerous. Patches of this kind of ice are completely invisible, which means that you won’t know you’ve struck it until it’s too late. Be particularly cautious on bridges, corners, and during the very early morning when ice is more prevalent. Motorcycle accident claims often result from a danger that wasn’t seen until the last minute.

Hypothermia and Impaired Judgment

In some cases, the cold weather can affect your performance as a rider. Your reaction times might be slower, and you might struggle to make the right decisions as quickly as you would during summer. Make sure that your gear is providing sufficient warmth, and consider heated seats and handgrips. If you feel that you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to take a break. Food and water can be a difference-maker.

Crashes Involving Other Vehicles

During icy conditions, you’re ten times more likely to be involved in a collision. Other road users might fail to notice you, especially when it’s foggy. Make sure that you’re seen by positioning yourself appropriately, and by using your horn and full beams. Don’t tailgate, and keep your speed low!