Running Lights and Tinted Visors: Safety Tips for Motorcycle Operators

As a motorcycle rider, it is important to stay informed and up to date on how to keep yourself safe while sharing the road. There are many different products you can purchase and steps you can take to help avoid the risk of serious injury caused by a negligent or reckless driver. Two important things that you should know about are running lights and tinted visors: these  can make a huge difference when it comes to your protection.

What are running lights?

Motorcycle running lights are LED lights that face forward to ensure that the rider is visible to other drivers. These lights are essential in dark, rainy, foggy, dusty, and even clear conditions. Many countries legally require motorcycle riders to use running lights even when it is light outside, as these lights can help increase your chances of being seen by drivers who may not be paying close attention to the road.

How do running lights increase safety?

A study published in Science Direct recommended all motorcyclists to use their LED running light systems whenever possible. Many motor vehicle drivers admit to having difficulties seeing motorcycle riders; the human eye may even have perception issues when identifying motorcyclists. Running lights in the daytime helped reduce drivers’ failure to see and perceive motorcyclists and avoid a severe accident.

The study found that there is a big difference in drivers’ ability to determine a motorcycle’s speed when their running lights are on or off. As a result, it concluded that using running lights with an LED system “has a greater contribution to the perception and assessment of motorcycle speed on roads in inhabited areas and outside inhabited areas.”

What are Mississippi’s laws when it comes to front lights on motorcycles?

MS Code § 63-7-13 explains that motorcycles are the only type of vehicle not required to have two head lamps. However, motorcycles must be equipped with “at least one and not more than two headlamps.” The front head lamp placed on a motorcycle must comply with MS Code § 63-7-31, which requires:

• An uppermost distribution light that allows you to see at least 350 feet ahead in all conditions.
• A lowermost distribution light that allows you to see at least 100 feet ahead.

Mississippi allows the use of all lights, including LED lights. The state only prohibits the use of red and blue lights, which are specifically for law enforcement.

The benefits of tinted visors on your motorcycle helmet

If you are in the market for a motorcycle helmet, it may be a good time to think about buying one with a visor. This will protect your eyes from debris, dust, wind, bugs, or even sharp particles and objects during a motorcycle crash. However, it is an even better idea to consider purchasing a helmet with a tinted visor. When it is very sunny outside or other drivers are using their lights, your tinted visor will reduce the glare from these lights, which allows a clear image of the roadway and others around you.

It is common for motorcyclists enjoying the fresh air to be suddenly blinded when the sun comes out or another driver turns on their bright lights. This can quickly impact your view and turn into a dangerous or deadly accident. However, tinted visors are specifically designed to prevent situations like this. In addition, instead of constantly squinting from bright lights and sunny conditions, your eyes can feel less strained, giving you a more enjoyable and safe riding experience.

What other equipment and products should I consider buying?

There are several other types of equipment and products you should consider before getting on a motorcycle, which includes:

• A good helmet: When you choose a helmet, you want to make sure it fits properly, has a DOT symbol or rating, and matches your head shape. Your helmet is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can purchase, as it can help prevent serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries, skull fractures, brain bleeds and bruises, and more.
• Padded clothing: To help reduce the force and impact of an accident, it is crucial to wear padded clothing. Long padded pants and long sleeve padded shirts can help protect your arms and legs as much as possible. You especially want to have padding in areas such as your elbows, knees, and shoulders.
• Gloves: Motorcycle gloves can help you grip the handlebars, but they are also padded to protect your hands and fingers in an accident.
• Closed-toe shoes or boots: It is also important to purchase closed-toe shoes or boots to wear while riding your motorcycle. If you are involved in a motorcycle crash while wearing sandals or flip flops, you increase your chances of experiencing severe road rash.
• Riding goggles: If you do not have or want a visor, you should at least purchase riding goggles, which are detachable eye equipment. Riding goggles can protect your eyes from any type of debris while riding your motorcycle, and there are tinted options available as well.

The Mississippi motorcycle accident attorneys at Merkel & Cocke, PA have experience when it comes to motorcycle accidents. We know that no matter what steps you take or what equipment you buy, there will always be a risk of an accident when drivers aren’t paying attention or refuse to share the road. If you are involved in a motorcycle crash and need immediate legal assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We believe that motorcyclists should be treated with the same respect and fairness as other drivers and can do everything possible to ensure that for you. Call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation at one of our offices in Jackson, Oxford, Clarksdale, or Greenville today.