According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 80% of all motorcycle accidents result in physical injury or death. Additionally, motorcycles statistically are involved in more accidents than other motor vehicles. So, not only is the risk higher of ending up in an accident, but the results can be even more catastrophic.
The reasons for this are both obvious and not. Depending on the type of accident, a motorcycle crash could hurl its rider through the air or throw them into direct impact with another moving vehicle. And while we are told that other drivers do not always notice motorcycles on the road, we don’t often hear about the little obstacles that can put motorcycle riders in danger, with things like leaves and wet pavement possibly causing dangerous crashes.
What are some useful ways to avoid injuries in a motorcycle accident?
Are You Dressed Properly?
When it comes to motorcycle safety, it is important to dress the part. Wearing protective equipment such as a helmet, visor or goggles, gloves, and padding on knees and elbows can be the difference maker between minor injuries and something far worse.
It is advisable to wear long sleeves and pants, too, to protect the skin from the road. Leather is not merely a fashion choice; it is a way to avoid harm. Leather jackets and leather pants are more durable than other materials should you crash and scrape your skin across the pavement.
How Best to Stay Visible?
While considering what to wear, it is also important to consider colors that stand out. Bright colors make you more visible, which makes other drivers more aware of your presence on the road with them.
Consider also adding reflective elements to your clothes, helmet, and bike.
How to Make Sure Others Know Your Lane?
For your own safety, do not share a lane with another car. Also, do not split the lanes between cars. These are among the easiest ways to go unnoticed on the roads. And an unnoticed vehicle, no matter its type, is more at risk of ending up in an accident.
Other drivers know to keep an eye out for other cars on the road. They do not always think to keep a watchful eye for motorcycles in the same lanes as other cars or splitting between the lanes on the highway.
How to Handle Road Hazards?
As a motorcycle rider, you will one-day encounter road hazards. While these conditions may be more or less routine for another type of vehicle, for a motorcycle they can be more dangerous.
It is important to learn how to ride your motorcycle over hazards like train tracks, wet terrain, leaves, mud, ice, and potholes. Consider taking motorcycle safety classes to better learn how to ride your motorcycle safely in these conditions.
Seeking legal advice promptly is crucial if you’ve been in a motorcycle-related accident. If you have inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer who is focused on managing claims related to motorcycle crashes.