Staying Safe on a Motorcycle
Motorcycle accidents are on the rise, making motorcycle safety more important than ever. As a new motorcyclist, you should be aware of some essential life-saving tips. For seasoned drivers, it is always a good idea to be reminded of some precautions to take to stay safe on the road with other vehicles and drivers.
As a motorcyclist, you do not have the protection of a metal frame and automatic airbags around you. Therefore, safety on the road begins with you:
-Invest in your livelihood by taking a qualified motorcycle training course. Safety experts will provide you with hands-on instruction to help you avoid accidents.
-Wear protective equipment when riding. Helmets save lives so be sure to pick one that provides optimum protection. Motorcycle riding clothes are specially designed to help break your tumbles and bumps and act as a tough outer layer. Having brightly colored pieces also does not hurt. This gets others to notice you on the road as a good number of accidents occur due to drivers not seeing or noticing the motorcyclist. Being properly equipped to ride can be the difference between life and death.
On the road, there are many objects, both moving and static, that can inflict severe harm on you should you collide with them:
-Assume you are invisible. The unfortunate reality is that most vehicle drivers do not always pay attention or notice motorcyclists sharing the road with them. Use defensive driving techniques and keep a safe distance away from drivers who seem distracted (whether it be with other passengers, on the phone, or listening to loud music).
-Avoid driving in others’ blind spots.
-At a red traffic light or stop sign, pull to one side of the lane to avoid being accidentally rear-ended by the unaware motorist coming from behind.
-Proceed through intersections with caution and if possible, ride alongside a large vehicle for cover.
-Always have an escape route to either side should other drivers behave unpredictably.
There are many ways to stay safe on the road as a motorcyclist. Of course, mastering safe driving techniques comes with experience. Your life is more valuable than your bike so if you come across a situation where your bike can act as a buffer and you can safely get away on foot, do so without hesitation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact a personal injury lawyer and receive advice on how to proceed. Motorcyclists tend to sustain severe injuries when they get into an accident so it is important to seek legal counsel to ensure all dimensions of the case are addressed and taken care of.
