It is a goal or a dream for a lot of Americans to get on their motorcycle and hit the road. Road trips are exciting and empowering. It is a great way to have adventures. However, no matter how fun, it does have risks.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcycle drivers are far more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than drivers of cars. In 2019, the NHTSA found that when comparing miles traveled, motorcyclists were about 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash. They were also 4 times more likely to be injured.
Motorcycle drivers need to know the risks they face on the road and prioritize their safety. Below are the top risks to motorcyclists:
Other Drivers on the Road
Other drivers are one of the biggest concerns that motorcyclists must deal with. Drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol cause more fatalities on the road every year. On the other hand, even sober drivers can be a problem. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the road, which means that some drivers may not notice them quickly.
Some of the other hazards that other drivers pose include:
- Suddenly opening a door while parallel parked on a roadside, creating a sudden obstacle in the road
- Cars changing lanes without signaling
- Drivers not noticing you and therefore not braking in time to avoid a rear-end collision
Hazardous Road Conditions
The condition of the road can be a major problem for motorcyclists. When driving on a gravel road, you must take into consideration your speed, taking turns, slowing, and stopping. Potholes and poor road conditions are the cause of countless accidents every year. It is critical to advocate for proper road maintenance in your city to protect drivers from injury caused by hitting a rough patch of road and potentially losing control.
Inclement Weather
Inclement weather is one factor that can contribute to dangerous road conditions. Snow, ice, standing water, and rain are all hazards that motorcycle riders will face on the road. Ice can be hard to see, particularly black ice. Slipping on ice can cause you to lose control, lay your bike down, or even flip your bike. Standing water can cause hydroplaning, which occurs when a vehicle loses contact with the road and glides on top of the water. Hydroplaning means losing total control of your bike, with far more serious consequences than in a car or truck. Rain reduces visibility for you and other drivers on the road, so many bikers choose to pull over during storms and wait for the storm to pass.
Reckless Driving
Last but not the least, reckless driving is a common cause of motorcycle accidents.
Below are ways to decrease your risk of being injured in a collision while you are out driving a motorcycle:
- Always wear a helmet, no matter how long or short your ride is going to be.
- Get a bike that fits you. Make sure you can handle the bike you are riding.
- Anti Lock brakes may not be standard, but they effectively reduce fatalities. If your bike does not have antilock brakes, ask your mechanic if they can be added, or make sure to get anti lock brakes on your next bike.
- Do not assume you already know everything there is to know. Motorcycle safety courses can strengthen your knowledge and skills.
- Make sure you purchase and wear the right gear, including a leather jacket, long pants, gloves, and good footwear. You need to wear this gear, even in the summer.
- Practice defensive driving and be vigilant as you respond to other drivers on the road.
- Avoid driving in inclement weather.
- Watch for hazardous road conditions, including rocks, gravel, sand, bumps, potholes, and more.
If you have been injured in an accident while driving your motorcycle, you may be overwhelmed by the best way to move forward. It is best to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side who is ready to listen and has genuine care and compassion.
At Darfoor Law Firm, we will guide you in every step of the way and we will do everything to protect your claim so you can receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Contact us today at +1-833-327-3667 for a free consultation and case evaluation.
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