Legends Ride, Sturgis South Dakota
Biker Attorney Russ Brown: January is in full swing which means Daytona Bike Week is just around the corner. Daytona Bike Week kicks of the motorcycle rally season which culminates for some with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, South Dakota in August or Biketoberfest in the fall back in Daytona, Florida. Regardless of which rallies you attend making runs for motorcycle events and runs is a lot of fun, and many motorcyclists spend most of their time in the wind traveling to popular motorcycle rallies around the U.S. Those of you new to long distance runs should have a game plan before you tank up and hit the highway towards that event or rally.
The most important thing you should know is exactly where the rally or event is being held; get an address and look it up online with Google maps or your favorite mapping tool. Create an itinerary with stops for gas, food and rest along the way. It is very important that you know where you are going and where you can get help should you need it along the way.
It is also a good idea to travel in a group, there is safety in numbers and running with 3 or more people will make you more visible to other motorists, especially at night. Riding at night with bright reflective clothing will also make you stand out well. You and your group’s safety is what is important while you are en route to the event or rally. While on the road try to stay safely close together, staying together is your biggest strength when riding in a group, if one of your group should fall behind then it may be a good idea to relax the pace.
Don’t take chances on running out of gas; one of the biggest setbacks on your run could be running out of gas. If you are unsure of the distance to the next gas station then stop early rather than lose time on the road while waiting for one of your group members to run to the nearest gas station.
Even if you know the road and the places you can stop for gas and food, always bring along some water and little food incase there is an emergency and you are forced to wait along the road. If you break down try to move as far of the road way as possible. Many accidents happen when a stranded motorist is too close to the road and is struck by a passing motorist.
Travel with BAM, Free Breakdown and Legal Assistance for Motorcyclists – this great program was created by Biker Injury Attorney Russ Brown. It provides bikers with 24 hours of emergency roadside and legal assistance nationwide. It is a great card to use in conjunction with AAA or Hog for example.
You should also have an emergency plan in case something goes wrong on the road. Let a family member or loved one know which roads you will be traveling on and where you plan to make you major stops. A mobile phone is also a must. Getting help fast in case of a vehicle accident or roadside injury could be a matter of life and death. Above all plan ahead, be smart and you are sure to have lots of fun.
If you are on the road during one of the major motorcycle rallies and have a legal concern in regards to a motorcycle accident stop by the BAM, Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys® booth and talk to Russ.
