Common Motorcycle Accidents & How To Avoid Them
Riding a motorcycle can be dangerous. The National Motorcycle Institute reports that driving a motorcycle is 27 times more dangerous than operating a car or truck. Motorcycles are more dangerous because they are smaller and can be more difficult to see on the road. As a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer George knows if you operate a motorbike, it is critical to exercise safety precautions. If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident call 615-422-7171 to start your free personal injury consultation today.
Lane Switching Motorcycle Accidents
When cars merge into the motorcyclists lane. This commonly occurs when riding on a multi-lane road next to a vehicle that is not paying attention or fails to look before merging lanes. The small size of motorcycles allows them to be easily missed in the driver’s blind spot.
How To Avoid a Lane Switching Motorcycle Accidents
Many big rig trucks have stickers reading, ‘If you can’t see my mirrors, Then I can’t see you’. That is how a motorcyclist (or any vehicle driver) can tell if they are in a vehicle’s blind spot. To avoid Lane Switching Motorcycle Accidents stay out of blind spots. You should be able to see the mirrors of vehicles around you and especially the driver’s face. If you can see the other driver then they can probably see you. When you find yourself in a blind spot speed up or slow down to avoid the other driver from missing you when they look to change lanes.
Head On Motorcycle Accidents
How to Avoid a Head On Motorcycle Accident
The National Safety Council recommends the “Four Rs” when trying to avoid a head-on motorcycle accident:
- Read the road ahead
- Drive to the Right
- Reduce your speed
- Ride off the road
Corner Turning Motorcycle Accidents
Corner Turning Motorcycle Accidents can result in serious personal injury. Motorcycle riders have a lot of control by design, but it can be difficult to compensate or correct in a turn. While cornering, you may hit a patch of gravel, sand, leaves or water. Once the front tire loses traction a corner turn motorcycle wipe out may occur. Misjudging the turn can have the same result. If a motorcyclist crashes then they are at risk for further personal injury from other cars.
How to Avoid Corner Turning Motorcycle Accidents
Ride at a safe speed allowing time to react. ‘Slow In, Fast Out’ (of a corner) is an effective and easy method to follow. Enter a corner wide and slow. This will increase the motorcycle rider’s field of vision. Once certain the corner is manageable speed up past the turn apex and out of the corner. Only ride as fast as you can handle and as fast as you are comfortable. If you do take a turn too quick, don’t panic as this may lead to an over correction. Stay calm and lean into the turn. Don’t slam the brakes as this can result in a loss of traction. Stay calm and ride it out.
Pay attention to road signs. Learn the different signs and what they mean. Be thoughtful of debris that builds up in certain areas of the road. Shoulders can collect debris. Next time you are riding look for the pyramid area of intersection debris. This can be slick and cause a corner turning motorcycle accident.
How To Avoid Motorcycle Accidents
Safe operation an preparation are the key to motorcycle safety. Below are steps motorcyclists should take to decrease the risk of ending up injured in a motorcycle crash:
1. Ride Based on Your Skills
There are a number of challenging and dangerous maneuvers that can be attempted on a motorcycle. Before trying anything, it is important to make sure that you have the skills necessary to safely operate a motorcycle. If you need additional training on how to safely ride a motorcycle, you should consider enrolling in a motorcycle safety class, which will let you master new skills in a safe environment.
2. Inspect Your Bike
This seems obvious. Each time before you head out on a motorcycle, it is critical to walk around your motorcycle to make sure that each of its components is working properly. This walk around should include inspections of a motorcycle’s directional signals, horn, lights, and tires.
3. Travel at a Safe Speed
Motorcyclists should pay attention to posted speed limits. Motorcyclists should also make sure to take the weather and any conditions of the road into consideration. Traveling too fast for the surrounding conditions greatly increases a person’s chances of ending up in a deadly accident.
4. Limit Traveling in Bad Weather
A person’s chances of ending up in a deadly accident increase greatly when a motorcyclist travels in bad weather. As a result, it is important to pay attention to the weather forecast before heading out for a motorcycle ride. If you absolutely must ride in adverse weather conditions, avoid traveling immediately after a storm begins.
5. Purchase a Motorcycle that Matches Your Skill Level
If you are a new motorcyclist, it can be overwhelming to learn the various types of bikes that are produced. When picking the motorcycle that is right for you, it is critical to pick a motorcycle that matches your needs and skill set.
6. Get Routine Inspections
Even if a motorcycle is new, it is critical to receive routine inspections. You should also make sure to periodically have the motorcycle inspected even if you do not use it frequently to make sure that the motorcycle remains in good condition.
7. Always Wear a Helmet
Tennessee law requires wearing a motorcycle helmet. It is important to select a motorcycle helmet that has been approved by the Department of Transportation. Modern helmets are comfortable and lightweight without having to compromise safety. While these helmets tend to cost more than some other options, safety is worth the price difference.
‘Motorcycle Helmet Law (TCA 55-9-302) All motorcycle operators and passengers are required to wear a helmet. Helmets must meet federal motor vehicle safety standards and be certified by the Department of Transportation (DOT).’
8. Wear the Appropriate Safety Gear
While you might have comfortable clothing, it can prove dangerous when riding a motorcycle. Instead, it is a good idea to make sure that you wear adequate safety gear, including adequate footwear when riding a motorcycle.
Speak with Motorcycle Accident Attorney George Angelopoulos in Franklin, TN.
When a motorcycle accident occurs and another party is responsible, an George will remain committed to fighting for the results you and your family deserve. Consultations are free and there is no Attorney Fee unless we recover compensation. Call 615-422-7171 to get started today.
