Although motorcycles provide an irresistible sense of freedom, they are unfortunately not as crashworthy as closed vehicles. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute reports that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to be killed in accidents than the occupants of motor vehicles. Regardless of your motorcycle skill level and experience, it is important to review how to prevent motorcycle accidents and drive safely at all times. Taking proper precautions can help you reduce your risk of being seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident.
How to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
Wondering how to prevent motorcycle accidents? Both motorcyclists and motorists need to follow the traffic laws and exercise caution at all times when traveling on the roads. Review the following safety precautions to reduce your risk of an accident:
Wear safety equipment every time you ride.
Wearing proper gear every time that you ride your motorcycle is important. The right equipment helps to protect you from injuries, increases your visibility to others on the road, and makes your ride more comfortable. You should wear a properly fitted motorcycle helmet and highly rated motorcycle boots for your protection. In addition, consider wearing a reflective safety jacket or vest to help other motorists see you.
Follow the speed limits at all times.
While it can feel exhilarating to race down the road on a motorcycle, speeding is very dangerous. You should always maintain control of your speed and make sure to follow the posted speed limits. When the roads are wet, icy, or slippery, ride your motorcycle at a lower speed that is safe for the conditions. And as you approach corners, make sure to enter the curve slowly and go faster as you emerge; turning too quickly can cause your bike to crash into obstacles or wipe out.
Always remain vigilant.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the errors of those driving near motorcyclists on the roads. This is one of many reasons why it is important for you to remain vigilant at all times while riding your motorcycle. Assume that other drivers are unable to see you, and watch for gaps in traffic. Make sure to come to a full stop at stop signs, and look both ways before proceeding through an intersection.
Watch for car doors and blind spots.
If you travel in an area where cars are parked alongside the roads, avoid the area of the traffic lanes where people might open their car doors to get out of their vehicles. Drivers might open their doors directly into the path of your motorcycle, and pedestrians might step out in front of you and cause an accident. You should also make sure to avoid riding in the blind spots of vehicles on the roads. Try to position your bike toward the front of other cars, where the drivers can see you.
Keep your motorcycle in good shape.
Perform regular maintenance on your motorcycle. If you ride on worn tires or have soft breaks, burned-out lights, or other repair issues, it can increase the risk of an accident. Follow a regular maintenance schedule, and make sure that your tires are in good shape before you ride.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Even if you exercise caution and follow all of the traffic laws, a motorcycle accident can still occur. If you are seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, there are several things that you should do. First, make sure to call the police and wait for them to arrive at the scene. If you can, take pictures of the scene, your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and your injuries. You can also ask someone else to take them for you if you’re unable to do so. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses, and exchange information with the other driver. After the police have arrived, ask for medical treatment. Getting immediate medical care for your injuries can improve your chances of recovering and help to show a link between your injuries and the motorcycle accident.
Finally, be sure to call an attorney ASAP. The experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave are dedicated to helping people who have been injured due to the negligence of others recover compensation for their losses. If you have suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, contact us today to learn about your options by calling us at 417-322-2222 or sending us a message.
