As the weather continues warming up, motorcyclists will be hitting the open roads to enjoy their rides and make new memories. This means there is a higher likelihood that someone will be involved in a serious, potentially fatal motorcycle accident. At Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, we want every motorcyclist out there to be safe when they ride. So we offer some practical tips here for how to avoid getting hurt while on your motorcycle. In the event you are in an accident and you live in California, we can help you seek the compensation you need.
Basic Advice for Motorcycle Safety
Before you ride, and ideally before you even purchase a motorcycle or apply for your license, there are a few basic steps you should take to reduce the chances of an accident:
Take a motorcycle safety course
A safety course teaches riders the rules of the road. California has the Motorcycle Training Course (MTC), which is required for riders under age 21 but recommended for older riders who want a motorcycle endorsement on their licenses. In general, a safety course will teach riders how to take appropriate actions in unpredictable riding situations so they don’t get hurt.
Inspect your motorcycle
Before you ride, take a few minutes to closely inspect your bike. Take a look at the wheels, headlights, taillights, turn signals, brakes, mirrors, horns, handlebars, and oil and fuel levels. This is especially critical if you are riding at night or during inclement weather. A few minutes of basic checks can avoid a catastrophic accident.
Be mindful of the weather
Driving in rain, ice, or snow can jeopardize your safety because these conditions reduce traction and make your bike less visible. If the weather is already bad, strongly consider waiting for another day to ride. But even if the weather appears pleasant, check the forecast so you aren’t caught off guard later.
Wear protective gear that meets safety standards
Every motorcyclist knows the importance of safety gear like helmets, goggles, and leather pants. Not every rider understands that some items of safety gear are better constructed or put together than others. For instance, you need to make sure you wear a DOT-approved helmet. You can find details about DOT helmet compliance on the California DMV website.
Be visible to other motorists
Never assume that other drivers can see you. The vast majority of motorcycle accidents occur because other drivers fail to notice the rider. To enhance your visibility to drivers, never ride in their blind spots. You should also drive with your headlights, even during the day, and wear reflective or bright clothing at night. Always use hand signals and turn signals.
Be careful at intersections
Many accidents occur at intersections, when other vehicles are turning or even running red lights and stop signs. As you approach an intersection, slow down and check your surroundings. Just because there’s a stop sign or red light at an intersecting road does not mean other drivers are paying attention.
Watch out for common road hazards
Every rider should anticipate common road hazards and traffic issues. Grass clippings, oil, sand, and gravel can cause dangerous traction problems. Potholes, which are not always easy to see, are equally hazardous. Never cross railroad tracks at high speeds and be sure to use the appropriate technique for doing so.
Always obey traffic laws
Speeding, unsafe lane changes, and riding while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are serious infractions that could land you in jail. Even worse, you might wind up in a major accident. If it is discovered that your accident was caused in part by your failure to obey traffic laws, the amount of compensation you might otherwise receive will likely be reduced.
Maintain a safe distance between you and other vehicles
Most drivers already know that tailgating is not safe; it is even less safe for motorcyclists. Experts recommend keeping a distance of at least four seconds between the motorcycle and the vehicle in front. This allows for safe deceleration and stopping during an emergency.
Understand safe lane splitting
Riding a motorcycle is unlike driving any other vehicle. Extra precaution should go into every maneuver you make. For example, if you choose to lane split, you must do so carefully. Although lane splitting is legal in California there are safety rules for doing so. In general, you never want to catch a driver off-guard while splitting lanes.
Consider taking an advanced riding course
While a basic riding course can teach you the fundamentals, more serious or frequent riders should consider an advanced safety course. You can learn methods to avoid collisions, how to make safer turns, and proper control and braking techniques.
Keep a first-aid kit with you
A first-aid kid might make the difference between life and death if a severe accident occurs. Your kit should include, at a minimum:
- Bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Disinfecting wipes
- Tourniquets
- Gauze
- Hand sanitizer
Where to Turn if You’re in a Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident could mean serious injuries and financial devastation to a rider. The victim could be facing significant medical bills and lost wages due to time spent in the hospital and recovering from injuries. A bad enough wreck could spell the end of the victim’s career if he or she is unable to work at the same productivity level as before. And that’s to say nothing of the pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life that may result.
If you or a loved one were in a motorcycle accident in California, you have a trusted legal ally in Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. We will investigate the circumstances surrounding your wreck, identify the responsible parties, and then get to work seeking the compensation you deserve. If the at-fault party’s insurance company won’t negotiate in good faith, then we will prepare to take your case in front of a jury and demand the maximum damages allowed by law.
You can learn more about the causes of motorcycle crashes on our blog. To retain us for your accident claim, call our office today.
