Warmer weather tends to encourage motorcycle owners to go out for more joy rides and enjoy the fresh air. This means standard vehicle drivers are likely to share the roads with motorcyclists more than usual, so it's essential to be aware of associated safety precautions. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), about 5,000 people in the United States die yearly due to a motorcycle collision. Even though riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and fun, practicing driving safety is beneficial, especially in the summer. Here are a few tips for motorcyclists who are eager to get their bikes on the roads:
Check Your Bike Frequently
Safety checks are essential to summertime driving safety. Increases in temperatures can affect your bike's engine and tire pressure. It's also essential to check parts of your motorcycle such as mirrors, lights, and horns. Making sure everything works properly is the first step to ensuring a safe ride.
Be Sure to Have The Best Gear
Wearing key pieces of safety gear can save your life. When driving a motorcycle is important that motorcyclists invest in:
- High-quality helmets
- Jacket
- Secure footwear (durable boots, study shoes with no laces)
- Gloves
- Glasses
- Extra Guards (elbow and knee pads)
Always Be Visible
Since motorcycles are much smaller than standard auto vehicles, it may be hard for drivers to see motorcyclists on the road. Even if it isn't nighttime, it's important for motorcyclists to do everything they can to be easily seen at all times. This may be accomplished by:
- Always using turn signals
- Always turning on headlights
- Applying reflective decals to bikes and clothes
- Always engage brakes when stopping or slowing
- Using horn when necessary
Keep an Eye Out For Hazards
It's likely for hazards to appear out of nowhere. Colliding with an unexpected hazard can have a force large enough to eject a motorcyclist from their bike. Paying close attention to your surroundings can help prevent this from happening. Be aware of hazards such as:
- Aminals
- Fallen branches
- Construction site debris
- Liquid spills such as oil
- Loose gravel
Contact an Attorney
Even when adequately prepared, accidents can still happen. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle-related accident, you deserve to have someone on your side who wants to help. Here at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we have a team of skilled attorneys dedicated to getting your life back on track after your accident. Allow us to be there for you.
Contact our office today at (215) 486-0123 or visit us online to review the details of your case with a trusted member of our team.