How To Ride Safely And Avoid Motorcycle Accidents
Thursday, December 22nd, 2016
Although motorcyclists get a lot of joy out of riding, motorcycles are potentially dangerous due to a lack of protection and high speeds. If a motorcyclist gets into a collision with another vehicle on the road, the rider has little chance of being uninjured.
Bikers involved in multiple vehicle accidents are injured 98 percent of the time, according to a report from the Hurt Study. The high rate of injury is why it is crucial for any rider to take precautions to avoid life-altering injury. By following the six tips below, you can stay safe and avoid motorcycle accidents.
Sharpen your riding skills
Continually work on your riding skills, whether you are a beginner or an experienced motorcyclist. You will often have to make split-second decisions to avoid whatever hazards are on the road. Before heading out on your motorcycle, ensure that you know how to perform evasive emergency maneuvers to avoid accidents.
Wear a helmet
Many riders do not follow the most basic and important rule of riding a motorcycle: wearing a helmet. Those who do not ride with a helmet are almost half as likely to be killed in motorcycle accidents than those wearing protective headgear. The simple decision to wear a helmet could very likely save your life.
Watch your speed
When you are riding on an open road, it can be tempting to go full throttle. Riding at an accelerated speed is dangerous, especially on a motorcycle. Nearly one-third of fatal motorcycle accidents involve riders that were traveling at speeds above the posted speed limit. Riding above the speed limit also prevents you from quickly and safely avoiding hazards on the road.
Avoid riding in inclement weather
Slick roads are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. You may not start a motorcycle ride in inclement weather, but the weather is often unpredictable. If you run into dangerous weather while out on the road, pull over when possible or drive with caution until you reach a stopping point. Waiting out bad weather may be a bit frustrating, but it is safer than getting into a terrible motorcycle accident.
Stay aware of your surroundings
Many motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles occur because the driver did not see the motorcycle. Practice defensive driving and watch the actions of other vehicles around you. Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential dangers. Practicing defensive driving can help you avoid motorcycle accidents caused by yourself or other drivers.
Ride in groups
If possible, ride your motorcycle with a group of other bikers. Motorcycles are much smaller when compared to other vehicles on the road. Riding motorcycles in a group allows other cars to see you better. Increasing your visibility on the road will lessen the chance of motorcycle accidents happening to you.
Injured in a motorcycle accident?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to an insurance claim. In order to have a successful claim process, it is best to speak with a personal injury attorney. This type of attorney is the most experienced and best prepared to help you with a case of this nature. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you can gain assistance for extended medical care, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
Visit a doctor or hospital first if you have been in a motorcycle accident. Then contact Attorney Dean Boyd if you need help with a personal injury claim. You can call us at (806) 242-3333 or Contact Us by email for information about your free consultation or our services. You can also visit us in person at 4423 SW 45th Ave in Amarillo, Texas or 10623 Quaker Ave #102 in Lubbock, Texas.