Tips to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
Driving a motorcycle can be a challenging experience compared to driving a car. Navigating tighter spaces and responding to traffic are just some of the things that come with operating a two-wheeled vehicle. Moreover, motorcycles aren’t built to withstand the same degree of punishment as cars.
For this reason, motorcyclists must be aware of factors that can help prevent crashes from occurring in the first place. Even the slightest change in your routine or habits can make a huge difference in your safety and the likelihood of getting into a Chicago motorcycle crash.
This article will outline several tips you can implement immediately to help reduce your risk of crashing.
Obey the Laws
Driving in a car is a privilege that comes with many safety advantages. The sturdy frame of the vehicle protects car drivers, plus they’re strapped in by a seat belt and have airbags ready to deploy in the event of a collision.
However, the same is not true for motorcycle riders. Therefore, you must obey traffic laws at all times. The last thing you want to do is try to break the law by going too fast and suffering a personal injury lawsuit as a consequence. Instead, a bit of defensive driving could go a long way in keeping you safe.
Ride With the Flow of Traffic
Motorcyclists who ride against traffic are more likely to be involved in a collision because motorcycles are less visible and less likely to get the attention of drivers than cars. Therefore, it is in your best interest to ride with the traffic flow.
Always Wear Protective Gear
As pointed out earlier, operating a motorcycle can be a demanding experience. This is especially true if you are riding a dirt bike or an off-road motorcycle. But regardless of the type of bike you’re operating, you should always wear protective gear whenever you’re on the road.
Wearing protective gear means you will be much more protected if you wear gear that can take a beating. Items such as helmets and knee pads offer the best protection against the elements. High-speed motorcycle crashes can result in severe motorcycle crash injuries that can take years to heal.
That said, proper gear (not just any gear) is essential. Wearing the wrong gear can make you more likely to be seriously injured in a crash. Wearing the appropriate gear can reduce the severity of injuries in a collision and make the difference between life and death for motorcycle riders.
So, ensure your gear has been certified by a third party, preferably through an independent testing facility, and has met a certain quality standard.
The helmet, for instance, should fit you properly and protect the head and neck. The jacket should cover the rider’s upper body and arms, while the gloves should protect the rider’s hands and wrists.
Don’t Be a Speed Demon
Although we may anthropomorphize vehicles so that they’re almost like people, they are still machines. Therefore, they don’t have the same level of intelligence that you do as a motorcycle rider.
That means that if you’re riding too fast, you are more likely to encounter a situation where you can’t complete a safe turn or avoid an obstacle. You also risk causing a Chicago motorcycle accident by buzzing other drivers or pedestrians.
The speed limit on the road where you are traveling is there for a reason. Follow that speed limit, and you are far less likely to cause an accident.
Even though you may be able to go faster than cars, this does not mean you should do so. Motorcycle accidents occur in a flash of a second, but you can avoid them by operating within the speed limit.
Be Observant of Conditions
Certain times of the day are statistically more dangerous to be on the road than other times. For example, peak rush hour is known to be the most dangerous time to ride a motorcycle. It is at this time of day that there are more people on the road, more traffic, and more potential for conflict than there are at other hours.
As such, you must be aware of your surroundings when riding.
Remember to consider the weather conditions too, as they are a big factor in Chicago motorcycle accidents. While you may be able to ride safely on dry roads, you should not attempt to drive fast in the rain, sleet, or snow. Your visibility will be significantly reduced, making it even more difficult to see other vehicles and obstacles.
Plan Ahead and Know Your Route
Many motorcycle crash victims could have avoided an accident if they simply took the time to plan their route ahead of time. So, when planning your route, try to consider the following:
- What is the most efficient route from your home to your destination?
- What kind of weather conditions will you be riding in?
- What time of day will you be riding?
If you are unfamiliar with your route, try downloading the area map on your phone. Failing to do this will make it more difficult to find your way if you get lost or encounter an unforeseen situation.
Contact Michael J. Brennan for Quality Legal Representation for Your Motorcycle Accident Case
As mentioned above, riding a motorcycle is challenging. However, you can make the most of the experience by implementing the tips and techniques outlined in this article.
But in some cases, you might find yourself in an accident that was not your fault, leaving you with no choice but to file a motorcycle accident claim to pay for the medical bills and recover lost wages.
A Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer like Michael J. Brennan can help protect your rights and interests after an accident.
We provide accident victims with professional advice and support throughout the entire process of filing a personal injury claim so they can get their life back on track again.
Rest assured that Michael J. Brennan is an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who understands how traumatic these situations are for victims. Hence, he works tirelessly to help them rebuild their lives as quickly as possible.
Call us today at 708-460-9300 for a free case evaluation.