Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riders
Category: Personal Injury
Article by Tuley Law staff
Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and enjoyable, but it comes with its own set of risks. Motorcycle accidents can cause significant injuries and costly damages including loss of income, medical bills, rehabilitation, repair or replacement costs of the motorcycle, and other related expenses. In extreme cases, the collision may even result in death. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle collision in Indiana then an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you recover financial compensation for your damages.
While not every motorcycle accident can be prevented, there are ways to lower your risk of being involved in a collision. Here are some safety tips for motorcycle riders to keep you safe on the road and reduce your chances of being involved in an accident. These tips can also lower the severity of injuries sustained from a collision.
Avoid Dangerous Weather Conditions
Weather conditions such as rain and sleet reduce your visibility on the road. Not only can it be difficult to see, but you run the risk of riding with a reduced tire grip on the road. This means cornering can be dangerous in this type of weather. Precipitation can cause the oil residue on the road to rise and make the road extra slick. If you must ride in the rain then be cautious. Use your brakes and throttle gently to avoid sliding on the slippery surface of the road. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination so you don’t feel the need to ride too fast.
Wear Proper Gear When Riding
If you lose control of your bike and slide out, a regular shirt and jeans will do nothing to protect you from painful road rash. You should also protect your skin from wind chill, debris, and bugs that may hit you while you’re riding. Wear appropriate protective gear such as a reinforced or leather jacket, full pants, gloves, over the ankle footwear, and of course, a quality helmet. Goggles and visors are great eye protection. If you’re worried about the heat of wearing protective clothing during summer then you can opt for gear with breathable mesh or other material designed for protection and ventilation. Your gear can reduce the impact of injuries should you be involved in a wreck and by choosing brightly colored clothing you can also decrease the chances of another motorist not being able to see you.
Ride Defensively Every Time
Each time you take your bike out, you should be prepared to ride defensively. A motorcycle is less visible on the road so you put yourself at risk of being hit by another motorist when you ride. Be alert when riding and keep an eye out for cars that could suddenly drift or change lanes. Be careful not to tailgate and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Watch the traffic around you and leave room for an escape route should someone get too close. You want to be aware of road conditions so you can make adjustments if an obstacle gets in your way.
For more information, speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer today.
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