According to statistics by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash compared to the car occupants per vehicle mile traveled. This raises a huge concern for bike riders. Nobody expects to get into an accident, but it is a good idea to take some precautions that will help you prevent this unfortunate event. A motorcycle accident lawyer can always help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and receive medical help. But in order to avoid accidents, here are some motorcycle safety tips for riders.
Always Wear a Helmet while riding a Motorcycle
This is the first and foremost safety tip that everyone should be following, but you will be surprised to learn how many people ignore it. Wearing a helmet can save you from all kinds of head injuries, as a motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is 5 times more likely to sustain a fatal head injury. Make sure your helmet also has a face shield or protective eye wear for added protection.
Follow the Traffic Rules
Another very obvious tip that a lot of people seem to neglect. It is important to obey the speed limit, as the faster you go, the longer it will take you to stop. Educate yourself on all the local traffic laws and road rules to keep yourself as safe as possible.
Be Defensive as You Ride
Probably one of the best driving tips is to assume that no one around you can drive, and you are the only one who has to get yourself out safely. So be on your toes at all times. Never assume that a driver can see you; nearly two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents are caused by a driver violating the rider’s right of way. Always keep your headlights on, try your best to stay out of driver’s blind spot, signal any change in direction well in advance, keep a look out for turning vehicles, and always rush to a safer route if you feel you are in danger, even if you think the other driver should be the one preventing the looming accident.
Always Ride Awake and Sober
No matter what the emergency, you should never drive if you are exhausted or drunk. You will most likely cause harm to yourself as well as to others. Remember that nothing is worth risking your life. Both of these can impair your ability to react, so always be well rested when you hit the road.
Do a Quick Examination of Your Motorcycle
Making sure that your bike is in top condition is as necessary as practicing all the safety tips. Do a quick check on your ride before you hit the road, so that if there is anything wrong, you’ll find out before things get fatal.
Before you mount the bike:
- Check the tires for any cracks or bulges, or any signs of wear in the treads.
- Look for any signs of gas or oil leaks under the motorcycle.
- Make sure that the lights are functioning; test for high and low beams.
- The levels of Hydraulic and Coolant fluids should be checked weekly.
After you’ve mounted the bike:
- Make sure the clutch and throttle are working smoothly.
- Clean and adjust all the mirrors; this will ensure sharp viewing.
- Test the front and rear brakes.
- Test the horns.
If any of these are not working, take your motorcycle for servicing before you hit the road with it. A motorcycle accident lawyer is always helpful when involved in an accident.
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer | Attorney Javier Marcos
Practicing these motorcycle safety tips will help reduce the chances of getting in an accident, and will also reduce your risk of fatal injuries or death in case you do end up getting into an accident. Attorney Javier Marcos is a motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you with your case. Call 24hrs to our office at 713-999-4444. Consultation is always free, there is no payment unless we win the case and we go to you wherever you are.
Espanol – Abogado de Accidentes de Motocicleta
Consejos de seguridad para motociclistas | Abogado de accidentes de motocicleta