How do I reduce my risk of a motorcycle accident?
Posted on February 12th, 2018 by Oddo & Babat, P.C.
If you’re a new rider, or a seasonal rider who’s a little rusty behind the bars, you might be interested in knowing how to reduce your risk of an accident. Thankfully, there are several things you can do as a bike rider to help keep you safe on the road. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the open road and worry less about getting hurt.
Drive Defensively
This is an often used phrase, especially among motorcycle riders. Even most new riders understand that a biker has a much smaller profile than cars and trucks. This makes it more difficult for other drivers to see you, thus increasing the risk for getting hit by another vehicle. And because a motorcycle weighs a fraction of what full-sized vehicles weigh, it’s usually the biker who sustains the most serious injuries in a collision. Here are some ways you can drive defensively and increase your safety. It begins with assuming you are invisible. That’s right, because probably a large percentage of other drivers don’t see you or your bike.
- When approaching intersections, keep an eye on your rearview mirror when slowing down. If the vehicle behind you is not slowing at the same rate as yourself, move to the edge of the lane to give them room in case they don’t stop behind you.
- When turning in an intersection, anticipate whether or not the vehicles around you are giving you the right of way. If they are not, yield to them by slowing or stopping or otherwise avoiding them in as safe a manner as possible. Be aware of pedestrians as you do this so that you do not collide with them, either.
- When in parking lots, remember that drivers have limited visibility of any vehicle while backing up, much less motorcycles. Again, assume they can’t see you. Many larger shopping centers provide motorcycle parking at the edge of lots and these tend to offer slightly more protection to bikes than regular parking because they’re partitioned off. They also offer a clearer view around you when you’re leaving. Take advantage of these parking spots when available.
- When on the highway, remember that drivers often don’t signal when changing lanes. Sometimes they signal while changing lanes, which is not helpful for giving you advanced warning of their intentions. Watch the body language of drivers. If you see them checking their rearview mirror or looking over their shoulder, anticipate that they may be about to change lanes. Also, make eye contact with other drivers. Studies have shown that this can help them remember your presence and act accordingly when changing lanes.
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, give us a call. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm may be able to negotiate you a higher settlement amount than what the insurance company offered you. Call an attorney today, like a motorcycle accident lawyer residents trust.
I consulted with David the first time a couple of years ago on a serious matter that affected a very close member of my family. Not expecting a good experience from this serious situation coupled with an attorney consultation, the entire thing surprised me as it was pleasant, professional, and completely successful. We found him clear, direct, generous and extremely knowledgeable throughout the process. I give my very strongest recommendation
