Motorcycle Safety
Time and again, studies have shown that motorcycle accidents are more likely to be fatal than other types of motor vehicle crashes. If you follow motorcycle safety guidelines, you are doing your part to prevent motorcycle accidents; although, even when motorcycle safety guidelines are strictly adhered to, accidents cannot always be prevented. If you were already involved in a motorcycle accident and need quick advice, see our page on what to do when you are in an accident for more.
Helmets Head the Motorcycle Safety List
ALWAYS wear a helmet. Helmets are the most important factor in motorcycle safety since head injuries are the #1 cause of death in motorcycle accidents. Wear one and your chance of surviving a motorcycle accident will increase 37%. Statistics show that a motorcyclist is 40 times more likely to die in a motorcycle accident if he or she is not wearing a helmet. Non-helmet wearers are also 15 times more likely to sustain a non-lethal head injury.
Motorcycle Safety Musts
Of course, your head is not the only thing vulnerable to a motorcycle accident injury. There are many precautions you can take to increase motorcycle safety, including things like:
- Wear the right riding gear. Leather and durable textiles can help prevent road rash. Boots will likewise protect your feet and ankles in a motorcycle accident. Leather gloves will protect your hands. You might also consider motorcycle armor to add extra protection to your hips and knees.
- Do not ride in another vehicle’s blind spots. A motorcycle accident is more likely to occur when other drivers can’t see you.
- Keep your eye out for road obstructions like loose gravel, culverts, an oil spill, pothole and uneven asphalt. These things are more likely to cause a motorcycle accident than they would for a car, truck or SUV.
- Take a motorcycle driving class. More than half of motorcycle accidents involve riders with less than 5 months experience. Motorcycle safety is increased when a driver takes a class.
- Avoid driving in poor conditions. In wet weather, things like manhole covers and railroad tracks are even more hazardous than on a clear day.
- Always drive with your headlights on. It will make it easier for other drivers to see you.
The less protection you have, the more likely you are to sustain serious injury in the event of an accident.
Motorcycle Accident Injury Compensation
Sometimes we take all of the safety precautions, but there is little that can be done to stop a negligent, drunk or reckless driver. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident or a cruiser accident, you might be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, damaged property and other expenses. In the event of a crash, contact motorcycle accident attorney Ray King, located in Austin, Texas. Ray King is on your side. You will be offered a free consultation and free computerized case evaluation that will calculate how much compensation you might be entitled to.