It’s Spring and that means it is time to get your motorcycle out and take to the open road to have some fun and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. May is motorcycle safety and awareness month and we want to make sure that each ride is safe, and does not end up in an accident with you laying your bike down or even worse, personal injury. The chances of a motorcyclist being involved in an accident are greatly increased compared to other vehicles on the road, and we are offering here some important tips to ensure that every ride is safe.
Preparing For The Road
Know Your Bike
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced motorcyclist it is important to always prepare ahead of time for each bike ride. The best place to begin is with the bike itself. You should take the time and become familiar with your bike by riding in a smaller area like a neighborhood, and then become familiar with how it handles it various weather conditions. This will make you a better driver and help you navigate the roads and prevent unnecessary accidents and injuries.
Just like driving a car, you need a license. Every state requires that you have a separate motorcycle license, which requires a written exam and a road test or course with enough hours demonstrating that you have effective skills to operate a motorcycle.
Just Before The Ride
Before every ride, it is a good idea to examine the tires for proper inflation and tread. Also, check the brakes, the fluids, and indicators. If you are going to be carrying a passenger make sure that they are seated properly by sitting away from the muffler. Now that you are ready to ride there is one more thing.
The Helmet
The motorcycle helmet is the only means to protect your head from injury in the event of an accident. While state laws vary as to helmet requirements, you should wear a DOT-compliant helmet with the DOT emblem. This will not only protect you from personal injury but will make you more visible. (https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycle-safety) If you ride in a state that requires the rider wear a helmet and you choose not to, this may affect any potential legal claims that you may present. Consult the following site to find your state requirements: https://www.iihs.org/topics/motorcycles/motorcycle-helmet-laws-table
We cannot stress the importance of wearing a helmet enough, and likewise, it is important that you wear bright clothing and finally, equip your motorcycle with reflectors to give the best visibility.
Drive Alert, Drive Sober
Operating a motorcycle requires a lot of skill and means that you should always be alert. Never operate your bike when you are drowsy or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The potential legal consequences are no different than those operating a car or truck under the influence but the personal injury results can be much worse. By driving alert, sober, and defensive you will be prepared for any unexpected scenarios during your ride. Distracted driving is also dangerous and can lead to an accident and injury.
Driving Defensive
It is vital that you obey all traffic laws, watch for traffic signals, and make proper turns and lane changes. Using turn signals and other indicators properly will let the other motorists know your intentions and keep everyone safe. Weaving in and out of lanes and between cars is illegal and dangerous. Be aware of your surroundings and be careful of what other drivers are doing and watch for sudden turns or braking. All of these things help make you a more defensive driver and will ensure that your ride is fun and enjoyable.
Tips For Automobile Drivers
As a vehicle motorist you are not only responsible for handling your car or truck in a safe manner, you also have to be a defensive driver. This is a reminder to take a second look and watch for motorcycles as they may appear seemingly out of nowhere or may be out of your view. Always be aware of what is around you and share the road with motorcycles. Motorcyclists have as much a right as you do to be on the highway.
Even if they do everything right from visibility, being alert, and safe driving, you still need to allow them space and opportunity. Be courteous and safe and do not cause an accident that may end up with you, your passengers, or the biker being injured. Remember, they probably see you, but do you see them?
Set these safe practices in place now and make them a permanent part of your biking routine. However, we know that accidents occur, and in the unfortunate event that you are involved in an incident remember to be safe and cooperate with law enforcement. If you sustain injuries that you believe will result in a legal claim be sure to find proper legal counsel early on.
Bennett Injury Law has helped many clients succeed in their personal injury cases. Call Bennett Injury Law immediately after the need arises, so that we can begin working on your case. The longer you wait the less of a case you may have. Enjoy your motorcycle and be safe!
