Motorcycle crashes are, unfortunately, all too common. Riders of all experience levels can find themselves in a crash, and even the most experienced riders can have a momentary lapse in judgment that puts them in danger. Here are five tips to help avoid some of the most common motorcycle crashes.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Your surroundings are constantly changing, and it’s important to be aware of what’s going on around you. This means paying attention to the vehicles around you and pedestrians, animals, and other potential hazards.
It would be best to keep an eye on the road surface, as potholes, debris, and other obstacles can cause you to crash. To make it easier to scan your surroundings, choose a lane position that allows you to see as much as possible.
Maintain Your Motorcycle
To help avoid a crash, it’s important to keep your motorcycle in good working condition. This means regularly checking the tire pressure and tread depth and the brakes and lights. It’s also good to have your motorcycle serviced periodically to ensure that everything is in good working order.
But, if you still experience an accident because your motorcycle was faulty, you can visit this website and reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Ride Within Your Limits
It’s important to ride at a comfortable speed for you and within your abilities. This way, you’ll be able to react more quickly if something unexpected happens. If you find yourself riding in traffic, it may be tempting to go faster than you’re comfortable with to keep up with traffic flow.
However, this can put you at risk of losing control of your motorcycle. If you’re not comfortable riding at the speed of traffic, it’s better to fall back and ride at a comfortable speed.
Don’t Ride Under the Influence
Never get on your motorcycle after drinking alcohol or taking drugs. Even legal and prescribed medications by a doctor can impair your ability to ride. Check the label for warnings about operating heavy machinery if you’re taking medication.
It’s also important to be aware of how alcohol and drugs can affect you even if you’re not riding. For example, marijuana can stay in your system for days or even weeks, and it can impair your ability to ride even if you’re not currently under the influence.
Wear the Right Gear
It’s important to wear gear that will protect you in case of a crash. This includes a helmet and gloves, boots, and a jacket. If you’re riding in warm weather, choose the breathable gear to help you avoid overheating.
It’s also a good idea to wear bright colors or reflective gear to be more visible to other motorists. This is especially important if you’ll be riding in low-light conditions, such as night or bad weather.
Following these tips can help you avoid some of the most common motorcycle crashes. However, even the best riders can find themselves in a crash. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.