Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom and connection to the road that few other vehicles can match. But with that freedom comes responsibility, both for riders and the drivers who share the road with them. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars or trucks, even a moment of distraction or carelessness can lead to devastating consequences.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started, taking steps to prioritize your safety can make all the difference. From wearing the right gear to staying alert in high-traffic areas, small choices can help prevent serious injuries. And for drivers, understanding how to safely share the road with motorcyclists is just as important.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, our attorneys are here to help. Olson Personal Injury Lawyers will fight to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Safe Motorcycle-Riding Practices
Every time you get on your motorcycle, you’re exposed to more risk than drivers in enclosed vehicles. Staying safe means being proactive about your visibility, your reaction time, and your awareness of the road and those around you. Whether you’re riding solo or in a group, following safety best practices can help you avoid serious injuries and keep your focus on the road.
Here are key motorcycle safety tips every rider should follow:
- Take a motorcycle safety course. Even if you’ve been riding for years, a refresher can sharpen your skills and reaction times. These courses cover everything from maneuvering techniques to emergency braking, and they’re especially helpful if you haven’t ridden in a while or are adjusting to a new bike.
- Use proper safety gear. At a minimum, wear a DOT-approved helmet, shatterproof goggles or a face shield, gloves, a heavy-duty jacket, pants, and boots that cover your ankles. Choose high-visibility or reflective clothing to make yourself more noticeable to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions.
- Keep your headlights on, day and night. Many motorcycle accidents happen because other drivers simply don’t see the bike. Keeping your headlights on, even during the day, improves visibility and helps other drivers gauge your speed and distance.
- Maintain your bike regularly. Before hitting the road, check your tires, brakes, lights, signals, mirrors, and fluid levels. A quick pre-ride inspection can help prevent breakdowns and accidents caused by mechanical issues.
- Ride defensively. Assume other drivers don’t see you. Stay out of blind spots, leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead, and slow down at intersections, where about half of all motorcycle accidents occur. Always be ready to react.
- Never ride under the influence. Riding a motorcycle requires balance, focus, and fast decision-making. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and slow your reaction time.
- Stay alert for road hazards. Gravel, potholes, oil slicks, puddles, and uneven pavement can be dangerous for motorcycles. Slow down when approaching any potential hazard, and avoid sudden swerves or braking that can cause you to lose control.
- Avoid aggressive riding. Speeding, weaving through traffic, and lane-splitting in states where it’s not legal can increase your crash risk. Obey the speed limit, use your signals, and ride predictably.
- Check the weather before you ride. Rain, snow, and high winds can make the roads more dangerous and reduce visibility. If the forecast looks bad, consider postponing your ride or choosing a safer route.
No matter how experienced you are, staying focused and following smart riding habits can help you avoid preventable accidents and keep your ride safe.
Motorcyclists are vulnerable on the road, and reckless drivers can cause devastating injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, our lawyers are here to help you recover the compensation you need.
How to Share the Road with Motorcycles
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in a crash between a motorcycle and another vehicle, it’s usually the other vehicle that violates the motorcyclist’s right of way. Often, it’s a visibility issue, as motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, and drivers may not be accustomed to seeing them in the traffic flow.
Studies show that people who ride motorcycles or know people who ride are more cognizant of motorcycles in traffic flow. But even if you are not a biker, you can keep motorcyclists safe by following these safety tips:
- Always check your blind spots for motorcycles, which are less visible than cars or trucks.
- Exercise caution when passing a motorcycle.
- Use your turn signals. Make sure to give motorcycles behind you extra time to anticipate your turns or lane changes.
- Watch for motorcycles at intersections, especially when making turns. Take a second look at left turns to make sure the intersection is clear before turning.
- Stay in your lane. It’s dangerous to share lanes with other vehicles.
- Watch out for motorcycles in low-visibility conditions, especially at night. Increase your following distance, make sure you turn off your high beams when you see an approaching motorcycle, and refrain from passing.
Motorcyclists have just as much right to the road as any other driver, but they rely on those around them to help keep them safe. By staying alert, giving riders the space and visibility they need, and making intentional driving choices, you can help prevent tragic accidents. A little extra caution behind the wheel can go a long way in protecting someone’s life.
Get Help After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, call the motorcycle accident lawyers at Olson Personal Injury Lawyers as soon as possible. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s mistake, you may have the right to take action against the responsible party.
Let us help you seek justice. Call us to schedule a free consultation today.
