How To Avoid A Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycles are a great way to get around, but they can also be dangerous. In fact, motorcycle riders are 24 times more likely to be killed in a crash than car drivers. Furthermore, motorcyclists are four times more likely to suffer a serious injury than other drivers. There are a number of things that motorcycle riders can do to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash, and this blog will discuss important safety tips to avoid a motorcycle accident.
Wear a Helmet and Protective Gear
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to emphasize the importance of wearing a helmet. Helmets save lives. In fact, studies have shown that helmets can reduce the risk of death in a motorcycle crash by up to 37%. In California, all motorcyclists and passengers are required to wear a federal safety-approved helmet, regardless of age or experience. Failure to wear a helmet will result in a fine and
Additionally, you should wear protective clothing such as gloves, boots, jackets, and pants that can protect you from road rash, abrasions, and burns.
Obey the Speed Limit
Speeding is a major factor in motorcycle crashes. The faster you’re going, the less time you have to react to road hazards and the more likely you are to be involved in a crash. In 2020, 32% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 17% for passenger car drivers. Speeding reduces your ability to maneuver your motorcycle, increases your stopping distance, and makes you more prone to errors. It also increases the severity of injuries in case of a crash. Therefore, you should always follow the speed limits and traffic rules when motorcycle riding. You should also adjust your speed according to the road conditions, weather, traffic, and visibility.
Keep a Safe Distance and Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times when you’re riding a motorcycle. This means paying attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. It also means being aware of the road conditions and weather conditions. If you’re not paying attention, you’re more likely to be involved in a crash.
Motorcycles are less stable and less visible than cars, which makes them more vulnerable to collisions with other vehicles or objects. To avoid a motorcycle crash, you should always keep a safe distance from other vehicles and be aware of your surroundings. You should use your mirrors and turn signals to communicate your intentions and avoid sudden lane changes or turns. You should also watch out for hazards such as potholes, debris, wet or slippery surfaces, animals, or pedestrians. You should also be alert for drivers who may not see you or respect your right-of-way.
Ride Sober
Another major factor that contributes to motorcycle crashes is alcohol and drug impairment. In 2020, 27% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were alcohol-impaired, which was higher than any other motor vehicle type. Additionally, 41% of motorcycle operators who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2020 were alcohol-impaired. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment, reaction time, balance, coordination, and vision, making you more likely to lose control of your motorcycle or collide with other vehicles or objects. Therefore, you should never ride a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Use Your Signals
Motorcycle riders are less visible on the road, making them more prone to accidents where a car driver may not see the rider approaching. Always use your signals when you’re turning or changing lanes. This will help other drivers know what you’re doing and help to avoid accidents.
Ride with the Flow of Traffic
Weaving in and out of traffic is dangerous and can lead to motorcycle accidents and head-on collisions. Ride with the flow of traffic on the right side of the highway. While lane splitting is legal in California, it is still dangerous if not done safely. As a rider, do not exceed the flow of traffic by 15 mph and do not drive in the shoulder.
Be Prepared for the Weather
The weather can be a major factor in motorcycle crashes. During heavy rain, the roads can become slippery and conceal potholes, debris, and other road defects, increasing the risk of an accident. In bad weather conditions, slow down and increase your visibility.
Inexperienced riders should also be extremely cautious when riding at night. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 24% of fatal motorcycle accidents in 2020 happened between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
One of the best ways to avoid a motorcycle crash is to take a motorcycle safety course. A motorcycle safety course can teach you the skills and techniques to ride safely and defensively, including how to control your motorcycle, how to brake, and how to handle different types of road conditions.
It can also help you obtain a valid motorcycle license, which is required by law in California. According to NHTSA, 36% of motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes in 2020 were riding without valid motorcycle licenses. A motorcycle safety course can also lower your insurance premiums and make you eligible for discounts.
Get Regular Maintenance
Exposure to the elements, fewer parts, and more wear and tear means that motorcycles need more regular maintenance than cars. It’s important to check tires, brakes, lights, turn signals, horn, and fluids before every ride. If you own a motorcycle, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and to keep your bike in good condition to ensure that it runs safely and reliably.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Cerritos
By following these safety tips, you can help to reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident. However, if you or a loved one has been involved in a serious motorcycle accident or fatal accident, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Cerritos. Heritage Accident Lawyers is a personal injury law firm specializing in auto accidents and helping motorcycle accident victims. We will help you obtain maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Call us for a free consultation at (562) 376-5595.