We’re all well aware that motorcycles don’t have an exterior
frame like cars do. This is the main reason why they are deemed as more
dangerous than vehicles. A vehicle that is involved in a minor accident or a
fender bender can be a serious accident for a motorcyclist simply because of
the lack of protection between the rider and outside forces. Therefore it is
riskier to ride a motorcycle so if you own a motorcycle or are thinking about
owning one, you should practice the following guidelines to increase your
safety on the road:
Maintain your motorcycle
Make it a habit to regularly check that your lights, horn,
turn signals, and other critical components like the brakes, chain, and tires
are working. Tires that are underinflated can make steering and handling the
bike more difficult. Any of these components failing to work properly while on
the road can result in a serious accident, especially since a motorcycle offers
no physical protection like that of a vehicle.
Dress for Safety
Always wear a helmet, even if you’re going on a short ride.
You need some protection to make up for the lack of physical protection that
motorcycles don’t provide. Motorcycles also don’t have seatbelts so it’s very
easy to get thrown off your bike and severely inure your head. While a helmet
is the most important gear, it is also important to wear protective clothing
such as leather or thick jackets, long sleeves/pants, gloves, over-the-ankle
boots, etc. This type of protective clothing protects you from if you happen to
hit and slide along rough asphalt. That could scrape you up very badly.
Maintain visibility
Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have. Use lane
positioning to be seen. You should ride in a part of a lane where you are most
visible and try to stay in front of the visibility of other motor vehicles to
avoid their blind spot. Avoid weaving between lanes. It’s also a good idea to
use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle.
Leave enough space
Give yourself and other motorists enough space and time to
respond to each other’s actions. Practice stops on your bike in a safe
environment so that you know how much space you need and then give yourself
that space in traffic. It’s important to leave good space between your bike and
the vehicle in front of you, and you should also try to keep an escape route
open to the side if you can’t stop in time.
Know your bike and how to use it
Be familiar with your bike and how it rides and responds to
your actions. Know how to handle your bike in rainy, windy, and snowy conditions,
as well as uneven surfaces. The more you develop your riding techniques before
going into heavy traffic, the better you will know how to handle your bike on
the road. Always ride within your skill level. Don’t attempt a maneuver during
heavy traffic that you’re not familiar with.
If
you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor,
Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield,
Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City
Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys
know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your
feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the
compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow
Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join
the conversation by using #MCAA.
