Riding a motorcycle inspires a sense of freedom and excitement, which is why many people choose it as their favorite mode of transportation. Yet one of the main reasons for this sense of freedom is that a motorcycle does not offer the same level of protection and enclosure as a passenger car. When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident, that lack of protection creates a significantly increased potential for severe consequences. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about four out of five motorcycle accidents lead to injury or death.
Nevertheless, many riders believe they are somehow invincible while on their motorcycles. Sometimes this false sense of security is rooted in the confidence that comes with many years of motorcycle riding experience. However, even the most seasoned motorcyclist can be vulnerable to harm if another road user is driving negligently.
Following a few simple steps can help you stay clear of danger when you are out riding. While nothing you can do can make you completely safe from harm every moment, the following five tips will increase the likelihood that you will arrive at your intended destination in one piece.
1. Maintain Your Visibility
Because motorcycles are smaller than other motor vehicles, they are far less visible. There are several things you can do to help other road users see you, which can decrease your vulnerability to collisions:
- Wear a reflective jacket and helmet
- Wear a hi-vis vest with reflective material
- Keep your headlight on, even in the daytime
- Avoid other vehicles’ blind spots
- Avoid splitting lanes
- Avoid riding when it is dark
2. Don’t Ride Under the Influence
Statistics from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that approximately a third of motorcycle accident fatalities occur when the rider’s blood alcohol content exceeds the legal limit. Furthermore, motorcyclists are more likely than passenger vehicle drivers to be involved in an accident when intoxicated. Riding under the influence is simply never worth the risk.
3. Stick to the Speed Limit
The speed limit exists for a reason: to keep you and other road users safe. Keeping your speed within the legal limit will allow you to foresee sudden dangers on the road and respond to them quickly. Furthermore, speeding increases the force of impact in a collision, which can lead to far more severe and possibly even fatal consequences for you.
4. Avoid Riding during Bad Weather
Motorcycles simply are not as well-equipped to handle high winds, heavy rain, or snow as passenger vehicles. Heavy precipitation or ice on the roads can increase the possibility of motorcycle accidents. If the weather is bad, travel by passenger car if possible.
5. Take an Advanced Motorcycle Safety Course
Many experienced riders may believe that a motorcycle safety course is unnecessary. However, the skills you learn in these courses may be lifesaving. Advanced safety courses are designed to improve skills such as:
- Throttle control
- Brake control
- Low-speed turning
- Techniques for improving vision
- Evasive maneuvering
- Lane selection
- Road speed cornering
Furthermore, your motorcycle insurance may offer reductions to your premium after you complete an advanced safety course.
Remember Your Helmet
South Carolina law requires all motorcycle riders under the age of 21 to wear an approved helmet. However, riders of all ages are far safer when they choose to wear protective gear for their heads. While helmets don’t prevent accidents from happening, they do drastically reduce your chances of traumatic brain injuries if you are involved in a crash. Protective gloves, boots, and jackets are always helpful as well.
Contact an Experienced Georgetown Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
While the above tips are helpful, they cannot guarantee that you will avoid suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident. Negligent drivers can cause harm even when you are doing everything right. If you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident in Georgetown, or your loved one lost their life in a motorcycle crash, contact the experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys of Evans Moore, LLC today. Our legal team will help you file a claim against the at-fault party, and we will do everything we can to recover the compensation you deserve for your losses.
Our lawyers have the knowledge and resources to hold those responsible accountable so that you can get your life back on track. Call us today at (843) 995-5000 or contact us online for a free consultation and find out what your legal options are.