Motorcyclists should practice a few safety tips that can significantly reduce the chances of an accident. These tips include driving at safe speeds, wearing a helmet, and avoiding collisions with fixed objects and people trying to move into your lane. You may also be surprised to learn many of these tips. Still, if an accident cannot be avoided, consulting legal experts from Motorcycle Accident Attorney Denver, CO, is common sense and vitally important.
Avoiding Speeding
Speeding is a significant cause of traffic accidents. It increases the risk of an accident and limits the driver’s ability to react in time to a looming collision. In addition, motorcyclists have little protection from the external environment, so they’re especially vulnerable to a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 9,000 people died from speed-related accidents in 2018.
Another major cause of motorcycle accidents is poor visibility. Cars cannot see a motorcycle in time to avoid crashing. This causes the driver to freeze like a deer and creates an obstruction for the rider and everyone else on the road. Despite these dangers, speed is a powerful lure for thrill seekers. While it may be tempting, it kills and exhilarating for the nervous system.
Avoiding Collisions with Fixed Objects
Fixed objects are a frequent cause of motorcycle accidents. Nearly a quarter of fatal crashes involve collisions with them. While many of these crashes result from the motorcyclist’s negligence – speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to observe road conditions – many other factors also contribute to these incidents. Fixed objects can include trees, traffic barriers, or utility poles.
Fixed objects are not generally dangerous but can become hazardous when a motorcyclist loses control and hits one. Examples of fixed things that can pose a threat are parked cars, street poles, and signs. A rear-end collision with one of these objects can be life-threatening or even fatal.
Avoiding Collisions with People Trying to Move into Your Lane
When merging, it’s essential to be aware of other drivers. You want to let them blend into your lane and not cut them off. You’ll be less likely to cause an accident when anticipating their actions. Avoid speeding, and stay in your lane.
When changing lanes, check your blind spot first. Then, you can safely make the change when there’s enough space. But, if you are trying to pass a slower vehicle, be ready to swerve right to avoid an accident. Then, if it’s safe, turn off your turn signal and briefly stay in the right lane until you pass the slower vehicle.
Wearing a Helmet
Wearing a helmet can prevent brain injuries and fatalities in motorcycle accidents. Traumatic brain injury is caused by a severe blow or jolt to the head. Because helmets distribute the impact force and protect the brain, they reduce the severity of TBI. They also protect the eyes and face, reducing the overall risk of an accident.
Even minor motorcycle crashes can result in severe injuries. Brain injuries can result in life-long disabilities and impairments. In addition to physical impairment, wearing a helmet can affect your legal recovery in the event of an accident.
Avoiding Inclement Weather
Inclement weather can make it extremely dangerous to drive a motorcycle. Side winds and rain can reduce visibility, and sudden temperature changes can cause goggles and face masks to fog. The weather is unpredictable, but you can take steps to counter Mother Nature. These tips can help you avoid an accident while riding a motorcycle.
First, avoid riding in bad weather. While motorcycles are safer than cars, they are not as well protected against inclement weather. Moreover, motorcycles are vulnerable to hydroplaning, which can be incredibly difficult to correct.