Riding motorcycles in another country can be memorable, but it is essential to know how to keep yourself safe before hopping in the driver’s seat. Each country has different driving laws, rules, and regulations, but with a little preparation beforehand, you can reduce stress and enjoy your time on the road.
Continue reading to learn how to keep yourself safe on international roads.
Carry the Proper Documentation
Each country has different requirements when it comes to documentation. Be sure to research the following for each country you plan to visit:
- The visa requirements
- If you are allowed to bring your own bike in
- If you need to obtain a Green Card to drive in that country
If you are allowed to bring in your motorcycle, you will need to have your title, insurance documents for that specific country, and registration. It’s a good idea to bring the original copy along with multiple photocopies in case something ends up lost. Regardless if you are riding your own bike or renting one, you should always have your passport and driver’s license on hand as well.
Research Driving Laws
To stay safe on international roads, you need to do your research before operating a motorcycle. The CDC shared that road-related accidents are the number one cause of preventable death in healthy U.S. travelers. You can help protect yourself by being adequately informed of local traffic laws and which side of the road you should drive on.
Travel with the Appropriate Gear
You can minimize the risk of accident or injury by traveling with the appropriate gear on hand. Be sure to have plenty of forms of payment, including credit cards and cash, in case of emergency. If you are not fluent in the local language, a phrasebook is a helpful addition if you need to call for help. It is also smart to carry a small first aid kit for dealing with minor ailments like stings, cuts, and burns.
Check Your Bike Before Each Ride
No matter where you are in the world, you should always check your motorcycle for the following before riding:
- Tire pressure
- Tread depth
- Hand and foot brakes
- Headlights and signal indicators
- Fluid levels
- Signs of oil or gas leaks
Wear the Proper Protection
Now that you have prepared yourself to ride, be sure to wear proper protection. If you are ever in a serious motorcycle crash, the best hope you have for survival is a motorcycle helmet. Arms and legs should also be covered, and boots or shoes should be high enough to cover your ankles. Wearing brightly colored clothing with reflective material will make you more visible to other drivers sharing the road.
Ride Responsibly
You should always exercise caution while operating any sort of vehicle, but be especially vigilant while riding motorcycles abroad. Here are a few tips to keep you safe:
- Keep your headlights on, even in the daylight
- Obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals
- Ride with the flow of traffic
- Yield to pedestrians and other vehicles
- Be completely alcohol and drug-free
Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You
Riding motorcycles in another country can be a thrill, but unfortunately, accidents might still occur. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to the experienced attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages.