A lot of freedom comes with riding a motorcycle, but significant dangers do as well. While motorcyclists can certainly suffer harm while unilaterally operating their motorbikes, passenger car or truck drivers are the ones who crash into and cause riders harm more often than not.

Data compiled by the Insurance Information Institute (III) shows an estimated 83,000 motorbike injuries occurred in the latest reported National Highways Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics from 2020. While that data doesn’t break down injury data by body part involved, motorcycle safety best practice information from reliable sources discusses steps motorcyclists can take to minimize lower body injuries, such as ones involving the feet and legs.

Motorcyclists enjoy a sense of freedom on the road that is different from driving in a car. While many of the aspects of riding a motorcycle make them more enjoyable to some, it also raises new risks that bikers need to know about. They don’t have the body of a car to protect them from the elements or in the event of a crash. The best way to protect themselves is with the correct gear.