While motorcycling can be a fun and adventuresome way to commute or explore, it can also be dangerous. Those involved in motorcycle accidents are more likely to sustain serious or fatal injuries than are those in cars, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that between the years of 2001 and 2008, there were more than 34,000 motorcyclists killed, and an additional 1,222,000 motorcyclists treated for injuries in emergency departments.
While riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, a motorcyclist can take preventative steps for protection. For example, wearing the proper clothing and gear is essential in keeping oneself safe. One type of protective gear that’s important in preventing injury is eye protection like motorcycle riding glasses. The following offers a look into types of eye protection for riding a motorcycle, and how they can help protect a motorcyclist.
Motorcycle Riding Eyeglasses
Protective motorcycle riding glasses are preferable to riding without motorcycle eye protection at all. Additionally, just as it requires motorcycle helmets, New York requires all motorcyclists ride with eye protection that meets the basic minimum standards set forth by the American National Standard Institute (ANSI).
As such, the ANSI-approved safety eyeglasses you choose will help to protect your eyes against many things.
- dust.
- dirt.
- insects.
- small flying debris.
- water droplets.
- and, optical radiation.
If you need prescription lenses, eyeglasses can typically be fitted with your prescription. Furthermore, you should purchase eyeglasses with UV protection in order to protect your eyes against damaging rays.
Motorcycle Riding Goggles
Goggles are secured to the head and may be less likely to slip off while riding, when stopping, or in the event of an accident. Like eyeglasses, goggles must also meet ANSI standards.
Goggles are generally preferred by these types of motorcyclists.
- those with dry eyes.
- those that wear contacts.
- or, those who will be riding through dusty areas.
While goggles are one of the safer forms of eye protection, a face shield is the ultimate eyewear.
Face Shields
Face shields are the most effective form of motorcycle eye protection. A face shield provides that same protection that motorcycle riding glasses or goggles do, but over a much larger area. A downside to face shields is that they can’t be quickly changed out for changing light (daytime vs. nighttime goggles).
However, a face shield offers complete protection to the rider from wind, bugs, debris, dust, and more. Additionally, as a face shield is fitted into a helmet, the head and neck receive more protection as well. Usually, face shields are also more durable than goggles or motorcycle riding glasses, and require less frequent replacement. Often, helmet face shields are more comfortable as well.
When it comes to choosing motorcycle eyewear for yourself, the most important thing is your comfort and level of protection. Some people may feel uncomfortable in goggles, while others may love them. As long as your eye protection meets state laws, the type of eye protection that you prefer to ride with is what you should choose. However, you should never ride without eye protection.
Legal Help if You’ve Been in a Motorcycle Accident
While a person can take safety precautions when it comes to riding a motorcycle, accidents are still common. If you’ve been injured in an accident as a motorcyclist, you may be entitled to damages for your injuries and property damages. The attorneys at Gacovino, Lake & Associates P.C. are ready to take on your case today. To get started filing your claim immediately, call us at 800-555-5000.
