Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant, but the resulting injuries are often devastating. As experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, we regularly help road traffic victims with compensation claims for medical bills, loss of income and pain and suffering. But as vital as compensation is for an injured motorcyclist, avoiding an accident altogether is far more desirable. Of course, you can’t avoid all risks on McKinney’s busy roads, but there are some steps you can take to protect yourself.
Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience. You feel a certain connection to the road, the wind whips your hair, and you really get the full feeling of speed. Motorcycles also are known for being inherently dangerous due to their lack of protection and being hard to see on the road. Here are a few safety tips for new riders.
Wear a Helmet
No matter what, it is crucial to always wear a helmet when you are riding your motorcycle. A head injury is the leading cause of death in motorcycle crashes. If you do not wear a helmet and experience a crash, you are 40% more likely to sustain a fatal head injury. Wearing a helmet is unarguably the single most important thing you can do.
Not only will a helmet offer protection if you are involved in a crash, it also makes you a better rider. Helmets provide good protection against adverse weather conditions and reduce wind noise. These benefits could prove beneficial if you encounter an erratic or distracted driver.
Make Them See You
While most drivers try their best to look out for everyone on the road, motorcyclists are a lot smaller than the average vehicle. The most common thing a driver will say after an accident with a motorcyclist is, “I didn’t even see them!” Make sure that drivers on the road see you and never assume that you are visible. Wear bright colors, do not hang out in a driver’s blind spot, and never put yourself in a position where you have no way out.
When insurance companies and attorneys are determining the value of auto accident injury settlements, they may argue over levels of negligence. For example, an insurer may try to argue that the motorcyclist did not take precautions to be visible, or to maintain a safe distance. Along with the obvious safety benefits, wearing bright clothes could work in your favor during a settlement.
Anticipate Movements
When you are riding, always try to anticipate other driver’s actions. Stay far enough away from vehicles that you can react quickly to avoid an accident. Always take weather conditions into account when you are riding so that you can adjust your speed and distance in order to have a quick enough reaction time.
Do not assume that every driver will be considerate of the traffic around them. You are likely to encounter vehicles making last-minute turns without signaling, switching lanes without thinking about motorcycles. By being alert and anticipating other drivers’ potential actions, you can avoid many incidents and reduce the need for a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in North Texas
If you do get into a motorcycle accident, you need to speak to an experienced attorney. Joe Lucé is a dedicated and experienced personal injury attorney who is happy to assist you with your case. Call (972) 632-1300 or contact us online today!
