Motorcycles are a fun and thrilling ride for those who are looking for the freedom and rush these iconic bikes provide. They are also inherently less safe than other motor vehicles due to the level of vulnerability they expose riders to. In fact, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), motorcyclists are at least 30 times more likely to die in a crash than those in a car. Additionally, nearly half of all motorcycle deaths are the result of single-vehicle crashes. Of course, this does not mean you need to give up your motorcycle or keep it in storage. Instead, you should seek to make yourself more aware of what you can do to stay safe whenever you decide to hop on your bike and take it for a spin.
Learn more about staying safe on your favorite two wheels by reading our list of safety tips below:
- Avoid bad weather: If you can avoid going out during poor weather conditions, do so. Slippery road conditions can reduce your margin for error, cutting your visibility and reducing your tires’ grip on the road. If you must ride your bike in the rain, keep in mind that the most dangerous time to drive is immediately after precipitation begins. The water can cause oil residue to rise to the top, making the roads even more dangerous. Be sure to also wear effective eye protection rather than relying on your bike’s windscreen or on eyeglasses. Instead, consider using a helmet visor or goggles.
- Always be defensive: This means you should stay extra alert and be aware of others around you. We live in an age where distracted driving is a bigger problem than it has ever been in the past, so you cannot assume others are looking out for you. Keep an eye out for vehicles that suddenly change lanes or pull out from side streets. You should also avoid tailgating to give yourself enough stopping distance to react to obstacles on the road. Remember, objects that cars can easily bypass could be major hazards for your bike.
- Wear the appropriate gear: What you decide to wear when you go for a ride on your bike is also vital to your safety. Wearing a pair of jeans, a T-shirt, and flip-flops is a recipe for disaster. You are going to want to wear gear that will adequately protect you from wind chill, flying bugs, debris, and road rash. Consider purchasing either a leather jacket or another type of reinforced jacket that provides protection, gloves, full pants, and footwear that covers your ankles. There are also jackets with rugged padding and breathable mesh material that are designed specifically to provide protection and ventilation during the summer and warm weather. You should also invest in effective eye protection. The visor on your helmet or goggles are both great options.
- Watch out for road hazards: Motorcycles have less contact with the pavement than cars do, which means things like sand, wet leaves, or pebbles can easily cause a bike to slide without warning, resulting in a nasty spill. While potholes and bumps typically do not pose serious dangers to cars, for a motorcycle, failing to avoid them can lead to an accident. If you absolutely cannot avoid these obstacles, slow down as much as you can before you encounter them.
- Be prepared: Before you go for a ride, always be sure to do a quick walk-around to ensure your lights, horn, and signals are all working properly. You should also examine the chain, belt, or shaft and the brakes. Inspect your tires for wear and proper tire pressure. If your tires are under-inflated, this could pose a major risk to your safety, making steering incredibly difficult.
Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Las Vegas
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe, life-altering injuries, or even fatalities. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, you have a right to pursue compensation to cover your medical expenses and lost wages. At Shook & Stone, our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys are prepared to take on any case and will stand by your side.
Backed by over 85 years of experience, you can be confident in our firm’s ability to effectively represent you and your interests.
Contact our office today at (702) 385-2220 to schedule a free case evaluation.
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