According to a recent study, Florida has one of the highest yearly motorcycle accident rates in the entire country. Without any doubt, riding a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injuries, sadly even sometimes resulting in death. Even the smallest of obstacles, such as wet pavement, cracks in the road, or even simple leaves can pose serious threats to riders and can cause accidents. Moreover, motorcycles by nature are more difficult to see on the road than cars, and automobile drivers often ignore them which further increases the risk for accidents.
All of the above renders a motorcycle unsafe as it is, but a lack of safety features found in automobiles like seat belts, airbags, and so on makes things even worse. However, all hope is not lost as there are certain safety measures motorcycle riders can take to lower their risk of accident and reduce their risk of injury. Here are 7 tips to avoid a motorcycle accident:
- Be Wary of Your Surroundings: No matter how obvious it seems, a common reason behind motorcycle accidents is the riders’ habitual behavior of not paying full attention to their surroundings while riding. Regardless of your experience as a motorcycle rider, it’s crucial to understand that you are handling quite a heavy piece of machinery while surrounding yourself with other drivers and riders who are doing the same. While riding a motorcycle, be aware of things around you including other riders and drivers, potential hazards on the path, and road conditions.
- Always Wear a Helmet: It is extremely important to wear a helmet every time you ride your motorcycle. Whether it’s a short ride within the city or a day-long trip, a helmet is something that can potentially save your life, should you be met with an accident. Bonus: Keep an extra helmet with you for passengers. Never purchase a used helmet as these helmets could easily get damaged and might not conform to the latest safety standards.
- Do Not Drink & Ride: Reports suggest that nearly half of all motorcycle accidents in the US involve the use of alcohol. Shockingly, this figure is almost double the number of alcohol-related automobile accidents that result in a death. The only preventive measure to avoid alcohol-related accidents is to abstain yourself from drinking just before or while riding your motorbike.
- Follow the Specified Speed Limits: Speeding is yet another major reason behind fatal motorcycle accidents. At a high speed, riders often lose control of their motorcycles while taking sharp turns. It is recommended to follow specified speed limits for all roads such as back roads, highways, and residential alleys. Not only will this allow you to stay safe, but it will also prevent you from losing control of your bike at sharp turns, running into a vehicle or pedestrian, or hydroplaning.
- Avoid Riding in Unfavorable Weather Conditions: Wet and slippery roads are an enemy of motorcyclists. Bike tires have much less traction on slippery paths than on dry roads. Moreover, rain or snowfall drastically reduce riders’ ability to see things around them. Hence, it is good to completely avoid riding in bad weather conditions. That said, if you absolutely must ride in the rain, make sure to take slow turns and be sensitive with the bike controls.
- Keep Your Bike Maintained: Motorcycle maintenance is an important factor to ensure safety. Regularly perform a quick inspection of your bike for proper working horns, indicators, and other such features. Also, check the condition of any belts, chains, tires, and brakes. If you find any faults, make sure to get them fixed before taking your bike for a trip.
- Wear the Right Rider’s Gear: In addition to a helmet, it is important for you to wear the right riding gear before you get on to your motorbike. A loose t-shirt, sandal, or baggy jeans will make you more susceptible to crashing your bike than normal recommended riding gear. Factors like debris, bugs, etc. should be taken into account while riding. Always wear clothing, eyewear, shoes, and gloves that are specially designed for safe motorcycle riding.
If you or your family member has recently met with a motorcycle accident, it’s quite likely that you may be entitled to receive some compensation for your losses that could be emotional, physical and financial in nature. Consulting with a motorcycle injury lawyer in Clermont will be your best bet in such a situation.
So, if you’re looking for an expert motorcycle accident law firm in Clermont, Florida, contact MANGAL, PLLC today to discuss your case. Our initial consultation is free, with no obligations attached.
