To many people, riding a motorcycle is more than a mode of transportation. It is an activity, a passion, and something that is greatly enjoyed. Motorcycles are, unfortunately, vastly more dangerous than many other modes of transportation for the simple fact that they do not offer the protection of an enclosed vehicle. Riders are much more vulnerable to impact. Motorcycles are also much more difficult to see than other vehicles. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2017, motorcycle fatalities were almost 27 times as high for that of cars. In that same year, 14 percent of all traffic fatalities were motorcyclists. There are steps we can all take to help keep motorcycles safer on the road. Let us take a look at a few of them.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
Motorcyclists, safety starts even before you get on your bike to go for a ride. Make sure you select a bike that is best fitted to you. Always check your tires and brakes before you head out. Using headlights during the day and the night can help increase your visibility. Look into additional safety features for your bike. Making an investment in something like antilock brakes may save your life down the road.
As far as safety gear is concerned, motorcyclists should take care to be fitted with a proper helmet. A helmet is perhaps one of the most, if not the most, important piece of equipment a biker can use. Full coverage helmets give the most solid layer of protection. Check to see if the helmet has a DOT sticker. This guarantees that the helmet complies with legally required safety standards. Also, avoid ever buying a used helmet. Once a helmet has been worn in a crash, it is essentially rendered useless.
If you are new to motorcycle riding, consider taking a safety course. Even experienced riders who may have been off of their bikes for some time should consider such a course as a refresher course. Knowing the rules of the road and complying with them is also an important part of motorcycle safety. While it is a good idea for all drivers to be defensive drivers, it can be especially helpful for motorcyclists. Always make the assumption that another motorist cannot see you. Try your best to always make yourself visible, but never assume that you have been seen.
Additionally, while your bike affords you more maneuverability than your average vehicle, take care not to exploit this while out on the road. Weaving in and out of lanes can be a costly mistake. Riding on the shoulder or between lanes can also prove equally dangerous.
Drivers of cars, trucks, and other vehicles can also work to try and keep motorcyclists safe. Drivers of cars may even forget about motorcycles being out on the road. Most vehicles out there are not motorcycles. Being mindful that motorcycles are out there, however, can help keep everyone safe. Double-check your blind spots and respect the space and rights of motorcycles.
Far too many motorcycle accidents happen because drivers of other vehicles violate their right of way. This may be because motorcycles are small and the driver of the other vehicle fails to see it. It may be because drivers fail to anticipate the movements of motorcycles or because they were driving distracted. Regardless, drivers all need to be mindful of motorcycles and take particular care to check blind spots and drive defensively.
Personal Injury Attorneys
Motorcycle accident injuries are often devastating, sometimes fatal. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, SoCal Injury Lawyers is here for you. We will help you to recover the compensation you deserve for your losses. Contact us today.