How to handle a stormy situation while riding this summer

storm-lightning Most motorcyclists are under the false impression that the rubber on their bike tires would be enough to protect them from the wrath of lightning.
Unfortunately, this is not necessarily true. Motorcyclists are not alone in this false sense of security; most automobile drivers also feel they will be protected by the rubber on their tires.

The difference between automobiles protection from lightning and motorcyclists is that automobiles have the steel cage that acts as a lightning rod and if struck, allows the lightning to travel down the steel cage and ground around the vehicle.

Obviously, motorcyclists do not have this protection, so what can you do to protect yourself?
The only protection you really do have on a bike is to stay away from the lightning.

If you find yourself in a middle of a storm, here is a guideline to follow to help you determine if you should keep on going or seek safety: count the time between a clap of thunder and a flash of lightning, if it is 30 seconds or under, stop and seek safety. Get out of the storm and somewhere that you can be protected. Once you are in a safe place, wait 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

You may not have a lot of choose from for protective places out on the road, but if possible always look for a structure that has a hard cover and is grounded. Never opt for trees as they attract lightning and your chances of being struck greatly increase if you are underneath one.

Always play it safe and respect the danger of lightning, know that taking a little time out of your trip to seek a safe waiting place is worth it.

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