Because a motorcycle lacks structural protection and restraints, you can suffer severe injuries if you collide with a vehicle or get thrown from your bike. However, if you wear the right protective gear, you could possibly avoid life-changing injuries.
Let’s start with the helmet. Under Wisconsin law, you must wear a helmet only if you are under age 18 or have a motorcycle rider learner’s permit. Otherwise, you can ride helmet-free. However, if you ride with a helmet regardless of whether the law requires it, you will better protect yourself. For instance, one study found that helmet use cuts your risk of head and brain injury by roughly 69 percent and your risk of death by 42 percent.
You should wear a helmet that fits snugly, meets U.S. Department of Transportation safety standards and features eye protection. Additionally, you should always wear other protective gear such as:
A long-sleeved shirt or heavy jacket
Heavy pants
Gloves
Sturdy boots or shoes.
You can also reduce your risk of getting into a crash if you wear bright, visible colors or clothes with reflective material.