From lane splitting to dangerous road conditions, there are many reasons why motorcycle accidents happen. In 2022, nearly 15% of the annual traffic fatalities involved motorcyclists. By making yourself visible, remaining alert, and driving sober, you can limit the risk of getting into an accident.
When you are getting dressed for the ride, make sure you have the right gear on hand. The clothing you wear should be visible to ensure other motorcyclists and drivers can see you when the conditions aren’t perfect. For example, visible clothing is important when you are on the road during foggy weather. Vented white helmets and light-colored gear are easy to see.
Make sure the helmet you wear comes with eye protection or a face shield. The main area of impact during a motorcycle accident is the chin, which is why a full-face helmet is best. Your protective gear should also include an abrasion-resistant jacket, gloves, long pants, and shoes that cover your ankles. If you get into an accident while riding a motorcycle, contact our Allentown personal injury attorney to schedule a consultation.
Before riding a motorcycle, it’s a good idea to prepare for the journey. First, make sure you know how to effectively operate your motorcycle. If you are new to motorcycling, it can take some time to get used to the feel of a bike. Ride it in a controlled area to become more familiar with it.
You should also consider taking your bike through numerous road conditions to learn how to ride when the weather isn’t perfect. By riding your motorcycle over potholes, road debris, and slick roads, you should discover how to compensate for these distinct features.
There are also numerous things you need to do before each ride. For example, make sure you check the headlights and any other signal indicators on the bike. It is also a good idea to verify the tread depth, tire pressure, and fluid levels. If the tires don’t have much tread to them, they may need to be replaced.
If you are riding with a passenger, they should get on the motorcycle after you start the engine. Your passenger should sit right behind you and as far forward as they can. They must keep their feet a good distance away from the muffler during the ride. When carrying items on the bike, they need to be balanced and secured. Consider altering the tire pressure to account for the extra weight.
Once you mount the bike, there are a few more things you should do before you get on the road. Make sure the bike feels right. Adjust the seat or mirrors if you aren’t comfortable with how they are currently positioned. Your back and shoulders should feel comfortable. If they aren’t, you may develop a minor back injury. Continue making adjustments until you are fully satisfied.
Check the brake levers and clutch as well. They should have some resistance. If they don’t, you may need repairs. If the lever pushes down to the grips or the front brake doesn’t have proper traction with the road, you shouldn’t ride the bike. Keep in mind that around 85% of the braking power in a motorcycle comes from the front brake.
No matter where you ride, it’s important to be aware of local traffic laws. Always adhere to traffic lights, speed limits, lane markings, and signs. Before changing lanes, signal to other drivers that you’re about to do so. When the road is congested, stick with the general flow of traffic to avoid getting into an accident.
It’s also highly recommended that you drive defensively. Even if you make all the right decisions while on the road, you never know when another driver is going to make a bad one that increases the risk of an accident. When you are near pedestrians, yield to them. You should also slow down at intersections. If you want your bike to be more visible, add reflective materials to it. Consider keeping the headlights on constantly while driving.
When riding a motorcycle, you don’t have as much protection as you do when driving a car, which means that accidents are more likely. However, following these tips should help you stay safe while on the road. If you have recently been involved in a motorcycle accident that appeared to be the fault of another party, however, call one of our Allentown personal injury attorneys at (610) 435-7400 to learn about your legal rights.
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