As we enter summer, there will be more motorcycle traffic on roads in West Virginia and in all fifty states. Motorcyclists can benefit from safety tips designed to save lives and property. Even if you already know defensive driving strategies and safe driving practices, a little brush-up can never hurt.
Staying safe on the road
As a motorcyclist, you are especially vulnerable to mistakes made by other drivers. While you can’t control their actions, you can do everything in your power to keep yourself and anyone you ride with safe. Before hitting the road, make sure that:
- Your bike is in optimal riding condition. Are your tires inflated to appropriate PSI? Do they have enough tread? Have your brakes and steering components been checked recently? A slight mechanical problem in car might mean a breakdown, but the same problem in a motorcycle can prove an urgent and dangerous situation.
- You know the driving conditions. This includes weather, traffic and road conditions. Avoid driving in heavy precipitation. Exercise caution on roads you haven’t ridden on before because you don’t know how they are designed or maintained. Defects in shoulders, passing lanes and other features can prove especially dangerous to a motorcyclist, as can potholes, cracks, gravel and other hazards.
- You are awake, alert and aware. Drowsy drivers are dangerous drivers. Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of motor vehicle crashes. Motorcyclists must be especially alert because they cannot rely upon drivers of cars and trucks to respect their rights or even notice them at all. As you operate your motorcycle, remain constantly mindful of your surroundings, including upcoming intersections and nearby traffic.
Get legal help when necessary
The safest drivers in the world cannot avoid all of the risks on the roads. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash or vehicle accident of any kind, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and options. Your financial future could depend upon it.
