motorcycle accident prevention

Motorcycle Accident Prevention: 10 Tips to Reduce the Risk of a Crash

It doesn’t take a genius to know that transportation via motorcycles is not one of the safest means of transportation. Consider the motorcycle accident fault statistics: in 2017, 5,172 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Despite the large list of potential hazards, there are about 9 million registered bikes on USA roads today. It is safe to say that motorcycles aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

With these facts in mind, wouldn’t you agree with this assertion?
That both avid bike riders and passive passengers must learn about the primary causes of motorcycle crashes and how to prevent motorcycle accidents?

So, in this posting, we’ll share quick tips for motorcycle safety. If you follow these motorcycle accident prevention tips, you will greatly lower the risks of causing or being involved in a serious accident. Let’s dive in and learn more.

1 – Wear a DOT Certified Helmet

The NTHSA reported that helmets have saved an estimated 1872 lives in 2017. Furthermore, an additional 749 lives could have been saved just by wearing a helmet. They also reported that $21 billion in economic and comprehensive costs could have been saved if motorcyclists would just wear a helmet. Helmets save lives.

2 – Slow Down

Common motorcycle injuries could be avoided if motorcyclists drove at slower speeds. The slower you drive, the better. The faster you drive, the more difficult it will be to maneuver in case of an unexpected occurrence. So, observe the speed limits wherever you’re at all times. This is hard for some motorcyclists because speed adds to the thrill.

3 – Don’t Drink and Drive

Taking alcohol impairs your judgment and remarkably reduces your reaction time. Not to be the prophet of doom but the odds of a crash are already stacked against you. Don’t side against yourself!

4 – Do Routine Maintenance on Your Motorcycle

Ensure that your tire tread is in good shape, your brakes are sharp, and your turn signals and headlamps are functional. Regular maintenance of your bike can help lessen the probability of an accident.

5 – Make Yourself Noticeable

A lot of motorcycle accidents are caused by cars who didn’t notice there was a motorcycle close to them. Be alert. Do whatever you can to make it easier for a driver to see you on his driving mirrors. You want to be noticeable. Use your headlights when appropriate, wear bright-colored clothing, change lanes safely, etc.

6 – Be Alert

Ride as though you’re the only sane one on the streets. After all, you never really know who’s sane, right? Texting motorists, drunken motorists, careless pedestrians, and even road hazards are all dangers. So, keep your senses on high alert and be prepared for anything!

7 – Be Careful of Intersections

Pullover to the side of a lane when you’re stopping or slowing down at an intersection. Before coming to an abrupt halt, watch to see if a car’s coming behind you.

8 – Be Educated

We are not suggesting that you become a motorcycling teacher. Rather, we’re saying you should take a motorcyclist safety course, particularly if you are a newbie motorcyclist. Even if you are an experienced motorcyclist, it’s not such a bad idea to take a refresher course. After all, we all make mistakes.

9 – Avoid Driving in Bad Weather Conditions

During harsher weather conditions, such as rain or snow, driving your motorcycle becomes a bit more challenging. Tires have less traction on wet roads. If you can, don’t drive under such conditions. But if its necessary, drive with increased caution.

10 – Gear Up

In addition to wearing a helmet, consider wearing long pants, gloves, and boots that cover your ankles. All of this gear serves as an extra source of protection against serious accidents that could result in serious injury or even death.

And that’s it!

If by chance, you do get in a serious accident and you need professional representation for your motorcycle accident case in the Orange County area, consider choosing Orange County Motorcycle Accident Attorney. We have 20 years of combined experience in legal representations of this kind.