Motorcycles are a great way to get around, but riding also comes with its share of risks. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, making them difficult to see. Riders also don’t have an automobile’s shell to protect them in case of an accident.
There are not many motorcyclists can do to prevent drivers from acting carelessly on the road, but there is plenty they can do to stay safe while riding. Here are a few tips that can help motorcycle riders avoid accidents and serious injuries while they are on the road.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Wear a Helmet: South Carolina law only requires riders that are 20 and under to wear helmets. However, riders of all ages should consider wearing a helmet to reduce their chances of serious injury if they are involved in an accident. A helmet can protect drivers from traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, which are all too common in motorcycle accidents.
Ride Defensively: While you can’t prevent drivers from engaging in negligent activities, defensively driving will help keep you out of harm’s way. Motorcyclists are advised to drive as if they are invisible and be especially cautious in areas where vehicles are likely to be backing out of driveways and where vision can be obstructed.
Don’t Ride Intoxicated: Driving while intoxicated is a common cause of motorcycle accidents, and it’s not always the car drivers who are under the influence. Riding a motorcycle takes increased measures of balance and stability, which can be easily affected by drugs and alcohol. The National Highway Safety Administration shows that 29% of motorcyclists killed in crashes had blood alcohol levels that were over the legal limit.
Wear Protective Clothing: A motorcyclist needs more than a helmet to stay protected while on the road. If a motorcyclist falls off their motorcycle, their clothing will be all that’s between them and the road. Therefore, they should wear clothing made of durable material as well as heavy-duty footwear. It’s also a good idea to wear brightly colored clothing that will increase visibility.
Pay Attention to Road Conditions: Potholes and debris are a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Riders should keep an eye on the road while riding and be prepared to swerve out of the way to avoid riding over dangerous ground.
Riders should also avoid riding in the rain, but if they do, they should try to follow the tracks of another vehicle as this will result in less water buildup on the pavement. Riders should also avoid riding right when it first starts raining as this will be when the road is most slippery.
Avoid Tailgating: Tailgating a vehicle can be dangerous as you may not have enough time to stop if the car in front of you hits their brakes. You should also try to avoid cars that are tailgating you. If this is the case, consider changing lanes or even pulling off the road completely.
Brake Properly: Before riding any considerable distance, make sure you are familiar with your motorcycle’s braking system. Use both front and rear brakes and apply them steadily and firmly to ensure you come to a safe and complete stop.
If you have anti-lock brakes, take time to become used to the system. If brakes become wet, it can affect stopping distance. Do your best to dry them by applying light pressure after you have passed through a puddle.
If you are considering getting a motorcycle, be sure to read up on the motorcycle licensing laws in South Carolina before making a decision.
What to Do if You Were Involved in a Motorcycle Accident
No matter how careful you are on the road, you can’t account for the carelessness of other drivers, and accidents can happen. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need a reliable motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you.
If you are looking for a Columbia motorcycle accident lawyer in South Carolina, Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers is highly recommended.
Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers is known for taking a client-centric approach that sets them apart. They offer their clients a sense of care, respect, and transparency, keeping them involved in every step of the decision-making process. Yet, the care they show an aggressive spirit counters their clients in settlement cases that ensures that justice will be served.
Being involved in a motorcycle accident is a traumatic experience, but using the proper safety precautions will decrease your chances of serious injury and make it easier for you to get the compensation you deserve. Do all you can to stay safe on the road so you can enjoy riding for many years to come.
