As an avid rider, you know that there\u2019s no better way to explore the U.S. than by taking a trip on the open road. From Route 66 to Interstate 80, there are thousands of miles to ride and plenty of views to take in on two wheels. But traveling so many miles across the nation can be a dangerous task for cyclists and drivers alike, so it\u2019s important to take some precautions before and during your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re preparing to take on the open road this year, be sure to read this guide to make your trip as safe and enjoyable as possible!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
No matter how safe you drive\u2014in a car or on a motorcycle\u2014there are always risks of injury involved. Even if you\u2019re not driving, you could wind up getting a paper cut, blister, or a headache that require you to get some first aid attention. Investing in a first aid kit is a good idea even if you\u2019re not driving across the states.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some essentials for your kit include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having these items on-hand can help you deal with minor injuries and minimize major injuries while you wait for emergency services to arrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are several threats that can be cause for concern while you\u2019re on the road, but driving drowsy can be one of the most consequential. It\u2019s estimated that drowsy drivers caused nearly 100,000 accidents in 2018, resulting in more than 1,500 deaths and over 70,000 injuries. You might be thinking that it wouldn\u2019t happen to you, but a survey from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention<\/a> found that 1 in 25 adults fall asleep at the wheel each month. It\u2019s more common than you think, so it\u2019s important to take preventative measures into your own hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most effective way to prevent drowsy driving is getting enough sleep. Before riding any leg of your trip, it\u2019s important to get enough rest. And if you find yourself starting to doze off or become less alert, be sure to stop and rest right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To better prepare for your journey, use a road trip planner to find rest places,\u00a0motorcycle camping guide<\/a>, attractions, and tourist recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another way to protect yourself while driving cross country is to make sure you\u2019re wearing appropriate gear. Make sure to always wear a helmet, even if it\u2019s not a legal requirement in the state that you\u2019re riding through;\u00a0your life could be saved by wearing one<\/a>. In addition, you should protect yourself with durable and protective outerwear to reduce the potential for scrapes and bruises in the event of a roadside emergency. If you\u2019re carrying any luggage on the back or side of your bike, make sure that you\u2019re strapping down the items properly. Loose cargo can not only be a bummer for you but it can be hazardous to others, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDress For Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Locate Mechanics On Your Route<\/h3>\n\n\n