Being prepared can go a long way toward making your ride go smoothly
When you’re getting ready to go out on the open road for a long motorcycle trip, there are certain things you can pack to help you have a safe and enjoyable voyage. Below, we've provided a checklist of essential supplies you should consider packing.
Keep in mind that whenever you're operating a motorcycle, you should follow the rules of the road, ride carefully, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Motorcycle riders make up a disproportionate percentage of traffic deaths, and those who do survive motorcycle wrecks are often left with severe and debilitating injuries.
Still, no matter how much you prepare and no matter how safely you operate your motorcycle, it only takes one reckless driver to cause a collision that leaves you severely injured, in pain, and looking for answers.
At Gervelis Law Firm, our attorneys admire and respect the motorcycle community in Ohio and the surrounding area. That's why we're so passionate about standing up for injured riders and fighting for the compensation they're entitled to.
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for all your losses—and our law firm can help you navigate the process from start to finish. To find out more about how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.
Before you pack
Any time you're preparing to go on a motorcycle road trip, it's a good idea to give your bike a thorough inspection by:
- Changing the motor oil and filter
- Checking your motorcycle's fuel and air filters
- Topping off all fluids
- Adjusting the throttle and brake cables
- Checking the air pressure and tread on your bike's tires
- Testing the motorcycle's lights and signals
- Replacing or repairing any worn out or broken motorcycle parts
- Bringing your bike to a motorcycle technician to let them perform a pre-trip inspection/maintenance
Once your bike is ready for the ride, it's time to make sure you're packed and ready to go as well.
Motorcycle road trip packing list
Even though space is limited and you need to leave room for personal items (e.g., clothes, towels, hygiene products, sunscreen, medications, etc.), the following items can be helpful to have when embarking on a long motorcycle trip:
Helmet
For the most part, Ohio gives experienced bikers the freedom to ride without helmets. Inexperienced riders, however, must wear them. In general, Ohio law requires you to wear a motorcycle helmet if:
- You are under age 18.
- You have a “novice” license – A special license for operators 18 or older who have never previously been licensed to ride a motorcycle in this or any other state or recognized jurisdiction.
- You are a passenger of someone who is under 18 and/or has a novice license.
Along with a helmet, consider packing a riding jacket, glasses or goggles, gloves, boots, rain gear, and walking shoes.
Tools
A five-in-one screwdriver, star bits, wrenches, spark plug sockets, hex key set, cable ties, duct tape, bungee cords, and a drive ratchet are among the items that may be handy to maintain your bike on the road. Bike jumper cables, a tire gauge, and a tire repair kit can also be helpful.
GPS, smartphone, or maps
Ohio highways can take you to some remote places where satellite internet and cell phone service may not be available. If you plan on traveling in the backcountry, parks, or other unpopulated areas, a paper map of your route may be helpful. You should also bring chargers for all your electronic devices (GPS, smartphone, Bluetooth, camera, etc.).
Paperwork
You'll need to pack your wallet, some cash, your license, and your registration, but you should also consider bringing a list of emergency contacts, a small notebook (along with something you can use to write), and your insurance information.
Other essentials
Water and snacks can come in handy if you need to boost your energy or end up stranded on the side of the road. Protein bars are a good choice, as they keep your energy up when there are long stretches between towns. Be sure to also pack a flashlight with extra batteries, a small first aid kit, and a backpack for extra storage.
Talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer if you've been injured
If you end up getting injured in a motorcycle accident during your road trip, you need to do two things. First, seek immediate medical attention. Whether it's from an EMT, paramedic, hospital, or urgent care center, get checked out right away. You can never be too careful with your health, and motorcycle injuries are often severe.
Next, you should call our law firm to go over your legal rights and options during a free case consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. Insurance companies are notorious for delaying, disputing, and denying claims, and if you're not careful, you could end up paying out of pocket for your motorcycle accident injuries.
With our law firm on your side, you can focus on healing while we look out for your best interests and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.