According to statistics from the NHTSA, during 2013, roughly 88,000 people were injured in motorcycle accidents and another 4,668 motorcyclists died in them. This is why it is so important to do everything within your reach to keep you and other motorcycle riders safe.
At Accident Help Jacksonville, our team of experts in motorcycle accidents has the expertise and knowledge to help you present a solid and unarguable personal injury case and ensure that your insurance policy compensates you just as you deserve if you are ever involved in a motorcycle crash. But, as we hope you’ll never need to use our services, we’ve gathered the best safety tips for motorcycle riders.
Dress Accordingly
Wearing the right gear can make a huge difference if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident. Wear long sleeves and pants made of thick, protective material such as leather; use gloves, eye protection and durable boots that cover your ankles. Add layers during the colder months of the year or opt for heavier gear that keeps you warmer. Additionally, consider adding reflective elements to your clothing, especially if you’re riding at night.
Wear The Right Helmet At All Times
Wear your helmet at all times. Wear it always. We couldn’t emphasize this enough. It should be a full-face, DOT-approved helmet at all times, preferably light-colored for maximum visibility. Without it, you are twice as likely to suffer traumatic brain injury if you’re in a motorcycle accident.
Don’t Text and Ride
Texting or paying attention to your mobile phone while riding is extremely dangerous. Keep your phone in your pocket and, if you definitely need to check on it, park for a moment on the roadside and stay as safe as possible.
Be Alert
Beware of fellow motorists and car drivers that may do sudden lane changes and swerves. Watch for potholes, patches of sand, railroad tracks and other road hazards. Remember that if you are driving fast, even the smallest bump can be very dangerous.
Motor riders should be especially careful in intersections as half of all crashes occur there. Pay attention to other riders turning left in front of you!
Avoid Bad Weather
Drizzle, pouring rain, hail or heavy winds can be driving challenges for motorcyclists. Make sure you know how to ride in bad weather in order to avoid having a motorcycle accident. Needless to say, pack rain gear to stay dry and comfortable.
Ride at an Appropriate Speed
Speeding on a motorcycle will definitely fulfill your thirst for excitement and thrill but it’s also the easiest way to become the victim of a motorcycle accident. It’s important for motorcyclists to remember that they should keep control of their speed and obey regular traffic laws and be cautious on slippery, wet or icy pavement.
Keep Your Motorcycle in Optimal Condition
Make sure that your motorcycle is properly maintained and that its parts are in good condition. Tires, brakes, lights and exhaust systems should be checked regularly to avoid having an accident while riding your motorbike due to a malfunction.
Nonetheless, not all motorcycle accidents can be prevented, regardless of how well your ride or how careful you are on your motorbike. When the unfortunate happens, it’s always comforting to know that you can rely on Accident Help Jacksonville and its team of experts in motorbike accidents.
