Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. Sadly, motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to lose their lives in a fatal driving crash compared with other motorists on the road.
They are also four times as likely to sustain an injury in a collision. Motorcycle riders can avoid accidents by following safety measures and extra precautions.
Here are 16 tips to help reduce the risk of serious injury or death.
1. Always wear the right protective gear.
Wear a motorcycle helmet and other protective gear, including gloves, and boots, every time you ride your bike. Motorcycle helmets should be Department of Transportation-approved and fit properly to protect your head from impact if you crash.
2. Use approved light modulators.
Approved light modulators can make you more visible in all sorts of weather and lighting conditions. These devices make your headlights blink or pulse, making it easier for other motorcycle riders and car drivers to spot you from a distance.
3. Carry out basic preventive maintenance on your bike.
Check your bike’s tires and brakes before every ride, especially if you haven’t ridden in a while. Ensure the tires are inflated to the right pressure, the brakes are working properly, and all lights are functioning correctly.
4. Drive defensively.
Always be aware of your surroundings and the other vehicles on the road. Be ready to take evasive action if necessary. Use signals when changing lanes or turning, drive at a safe speed, and maintain an appropriate distance between your bike and other vehicles.
5. Exercise extra caution at intersections.
Intersections are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Always look both ways before entering an intersection, because cars may not always be paying attention. Be aware of the vehicles around you and watch out for sudden changes in speed or direction.
6. Always stop in a safe area.
If you plan to stop, make sure you are in a safe area away from traffic. Use your turn signals to alert other drivers and avoid stopping in the middle of the road or on blind curves.
7. Act as if no one can see you.
It’s important to stay alert and always assume that other drivers cannot see you. Even if you are wearing bright colors and have your lights on, it doesn’t guarantee that other drivers will be able to spot you. In some cases, other drivers say that they didn’t see you as an excuse for their negligence, so always take extra precautions.
8. Follow the speed limit.
Always obey the speed limit and avoid speeding. Speeding is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents and can significantly increase your chances of being involved in a crash.
9. Avoid riding in bad weather.
Rain, snow, fog, and even strong winds can reduce visibility and make it more difficult for you to maintain control of your motorcycle. Whenever possible, avoid riding in bad weather or hazardous road conditions.
10. Avoid distractions.
Refrain from using your phone or engaging in any other activities that can take your attention away from the road. Stay focused on driving and be aware of what is happening around you.
11. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Alcohol and drug use can impair judgment, reaction time, coordination, and decision-making ability. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is considered an offense in Florida and increases your risk of being involved in a fatal accident.
12. Be aware of potential road hazards.
Keep an eye out for potholes, uneven surfaces, slippery patches, and other road hazards that can cause you to lose control. When driving on gravel roads, be particularly aware of the potential for losing traction.
13. Master complex maneuvers
Executing a tricky maneuver in certain situations, such as avoiding an obstacle or navigating a tight corner, may be necessary. Learn the basics of counter-steering and swerving to take evasive action if needed. Motorcycle safety courses teach these skills so you can effectively avoid head-on collisions and safely operate your motorcycle.
14. Master emergency braking skills
It’s also important to learn how to brake quickly and effectively in emergencies. This may not completely prevent you from getting into a crash, but it can help minimize the impact.
15. Always keep a safe distance away from large trucks and semi-trucks.
Large vehicles such as trucks and semi-trucks can cause a lot of turbulence for motorcycles. It’s best to stay at least three to four seconds behind them, so you have enough time to react if they make sudden stops or turns. These vehicles also have many blind spots, so ensure you stay in the driver’s line of sight.
16. Be prepared for emergencies.
Ensure your bike is equipped with a first-aid kit, a toolkit, and other supplies that could come in handy in an emergency. Always keep the contact information of family members or friends on hand if you need help. And remember to always carry a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance with you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, let us help! Call Jacobson, Schrinsky & Houck in Milwaukee TODAY at (414) 223-4444 to have one of our caring lawyers come out to meet you and get car accident help TODAY and money for your injuries. There is no fee until we win.
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