Motorcycle accidents have a very high risk of resulting in serious injury or death. As the number of drivers on the road continues to increase, so does the number of motorcycle accidents. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Motorcyclists and drivers can both take preventative measures to decrease the rate of motorcycle accidents. The Hernandez Law Group, P.C. has put together the following safety protocols to help create safer roads for motorcyclists and drivers alike.
Preventative Measures for Motorcyclists
1. Wear Safety Gear
Since motorcycles do not provide drivers with any extra protection, motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injury or even death. It is highly recommended that motorcyclists and their passengers wear safety gear for added protection in case of an accident. Safety gear includes thick clothing, such as jeans, jackets, and gloves. These help increase the bulkiness of your body, making you more visible on the road. Additionally, they help prevent major skin damage in the case of an accident.
It is also extremely important to wear bright colors or reflective clothing, especially at night. This will help increase your visibility to other drivers, decreasing the risk of an accident.
As a final safety precaution, it is extremely important to wear a helmet. Your brain is essential to your life, and protecting it with a helmet can increase your chance of survival in the case of an accident.
2. Stay Alert
Distracted driving happens all the time. While it’s difficult to text and drive on a motorcycle, drivers of vehicles have an easier time doing it. Always stay alert for suspicious driver activity and have an exit plan in the event that a vehicle suddenly changes lanes.
It is also important to be on the lookout for hazards on the road such as potholes, patches of sand, railroad tracks, and other things your motorcycle may not be able to drive over.
3. Know How to Properly Operate Your Motorcycle
Whether you’re new to motorcycling or just got a new bike, it is important to take a safety course and get to know your motorcycle before you head out on the road. Even experienced drivers should go back over the basics once in a while. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) offers classes online or in person. Going through a safety course not only helps you stay better prepared for the hazards on the road but can also help you get insurance discounts.
Preventative Measures for Both Motorcyclists and Drivers
1. Drive/Ride at an Appropriate Speed
Deadlines, anxiousness to get to a destination, or a heavy foot can lead to speeding. Doing so decreases how much time you have to react to an unexpected circumstance, such as someone cutting you off, the person in front of you slamming on the brakes, or an accident.
For vehicles and motorcycles alike, it is important to travel at the speed limit. This decreases the likelihood of an accident, and if an emergency does arise, you have more time to react appropriately. Additionally, ensure that you always pay attention to road conditions. Snow, ice, rain, and heavier traffic make speeding even more dangerous.
2. Keep Your Wits About You
Your mind may wander as you drive, but it is important to keep your attention focused on the road at all times as conditions can change quickly. If you’re a motorcyclist, always assume that a motorized vehicle cannot see you and act accordingly. This ensures that both parties have plenty of time when passing and that you remain visible as you pass them. One of the biggest causes of motorcycle accidents is a driver of a vehicle not seeing the motorcyclist next to them.
Drivers and motorcyclists should use extra precautions at intersections and stop signs, including the simple but effective habit of looking both ways before moving forward. This will ensure that you see danger before it strikes.
3. Maintain Your Vehicle/Motorcycle
Routine checkups of your vehicle can help reduce the risk of a mechanical error that may cause an accident. Here are some of the parts you should regularly be checking:
- Tires
- Brakes
- Lights
- Exhaust system
- Steering wheel and steering wheel fluid
Drive Safely and Responsibly to Share the Roads
Accidents can be prevented by exercising extra caution on the road. When we work together, we can make the world a safer place for all. If you are in an accident, however, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for damages. Hernandez Law Group, P.C. is dedicated to helping you claim the compensation you deserve. Juan Hernandez is one of the two percent of attorneys certified in personal injury law by the Texas Board. If you want an experienced team to have your back on your road to recovery, contact the Hernandez Law Group, P.C. today!