Born to be Wild – But Safe

Motorcycles provide a unique driving experience that is both fun and fuel-efficient.  Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle can also be very dangerous. If you get into a motorcycle accident, it is quite likely that you will be injured because your body is so exposed to other vehicles. Such injuries are often serious and in the worst-case scenarios, fatal.

However, you can decrease your chances of being in an accident by keeping a few things in mind. Listed below are five proven ways to be safer on your motorcycle.

• Protect yourself. Wear a helmet, boots, gloves and a padded jacket at all times when riding. Wear bright reflective clothing to maximize your visibility when driving at night.
• Avoid driving in bad weather or on poorly maintained roads. A deep pothole mistaken for a shallow puddle can be enough to cause a motorcycle accident.
• Assume cars can’t see you. A good portion of motorcycle accidents occur because motorists never saw the motorcycle.  That is why it’s best not to follow too closely, avoid night riding when you can and always have an “out” planned in case the cars in front of you do something unexpected.
• Take a class. Studies have shown that most motorcycle accidents involve inexperienced riders who were self-taught or learned to ride through a friend or family member. There are many rider education and training courses for riders of all levels.
• Follow the rules of the road. Motorcycles are sleek and fast, and new drivers are often tempted to speed, run red lights and stop signs and weave in and out of traffic — at least that is the perception. Don’t be that kind of driver. Don’t risk your life and the lives of those around you.

Unfortunately, not even these safety precautions can make you accident proof. If you are in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced accident attorney for advice.