Five Tips to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles are a fun way to travel. Riders get a sense of exhilaration and joy. But motorcycle riding can also be extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents can result in devastating and life-altering injuries. Before you head out on the roads, learn how to prevent motorcycle accidents.

The attorneys at CHASENBOSCOLO want motorcyclists to see the best of our country while staying safe. Here are five tips that can help prevent a motorcycle accident and potentially save you from a physical and financial disaster.

Distracted Driving – Don’t Do It

Just like in cars or trucks, distracted driving on a motorcycle is a risky practice. Many motorcyclists have equipment that helps them communicate on their cell phones while riding their motorcycles. When you try to text, listen to loud music or talk with your passenger while driving your bike, it can end in an accident.

Additionally, you may experience a severe accident if you come into the blind spot of a vehicle when the driver is distracted. Drivers are not always distracted by cell phones. Sometimes small children in the backseat can take a parent’s eyes off the road long enough that the driver causes an accident. Motorcyclists must be especially vigilant.

Drive Defensively

Motorcyclists must be mindful of their surroundings and the other cars and trucks around them. The flow of traffic can change at any moment. Even small distractions can lead to serious injuries. That’s why it is so important to drive defensively.

Motorcycles are much less visible than other cars or trucks, so riders must take necessary steps to help other drivers see them. Consider:

• Wearing a jacket and helmet with reflective material
• Use your headlight, even during the day
• Avoid riding in a vehicle’s blind spot
• Avoid riding at night

Maintain Your Bike

Bike maintenance is vital to safe riding. Pay close attention to the tread and air pressure in your tires. Poorly maintained tires can cause you to lose control and create a serious risk of an accident. Your vehicle also needs routine inspections and proper maintenance, so you aren’t stuck on the side of the road. This can potentially save you from serious injuries.

Before riding, check your tires, brakes, and lights carefully. Look for signs of an oil or gas leak, and clean and adjust your mirrors. Doing a safety check before each ride can help avoid an accident. But it’s also important to do routine maintenance on your bike, such as an engine inspection, and changing the brakes and oil.

Beware of Left-Hand Turns and Lane Changes

The driver of a vehicle may not see a motorcycle before making a left-hand turn or changing lanes. This is a dangerous scenario for motorcycles and can result in a serious accident. When a driver fails to yield to traffic or does not see a motorcycle coming, they can crash into an oncoming motorcycle or cause the motorcyclist to crash into them.

Additionally, when making lane changes, vehicles may not see a motorcycle because of their thin profile. Sometimes a motorcycle will also end up in the driver’s blind spot. If the driver does not check their blind spot before merging, they can end up hitting the motorcycle. Remember, if you cannot see the driver’s face in the mirror, he can’t see you.

Avoid Riding in Poor Weather

Sometimes it’s unavoidable to be riding in bad weather. You may have left when the sun was shining and by the time you’re halfway to your destination, clouds have appeared and it started to rain. Inclement weather can create driving risks for motorcyclists and increase the potential for a serious accident.

When the roads are wet, icy, or snowy, a motorcycle’s tires may not have as much traction. Your best bet is to steer clear of riding your motorcycle when poor conditions are anticipated. Pay close attention to the weather and temperature as you plan your travel.

Contact CHASENBOSCOLO Today to Protect Your Rights

If you were involved in a vehicular accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. We recognize that money cannot make up for the injuries and property damage after an accident. However, compensation can help cover medical costs and lost wages and can help smooth the journey to recovery.

We understand the financial and emotional burden that can result from a motorcycle accident. You don’t need the added stress of dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or filing a personal injury lawsuit while recovering. Call the experienced and compassionate attorneys at CHASENBOSCOLO. During your first free consultation, you’ll meet with one of our attorneys who will review your case.

Call the office at (301) 220-0050 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation.