Motorcycle accidents many times cause severe and catastrophic injuries. What are some precautions you can take to avoid a motorcycle accident?
Driving on Missouri roads requires a certain amount of trust. We want to assume that everyone has the intention of being careful and not harming others. While this concern impacts everyone, it weighs even more heavily on the minds of motorcyclists. What might be a mere fender bender for two drivers in automobiles can cause catastrophic injuries to a motorcyclist.
Be Aware and Cautious About Your Own Safety
Motorcyclists must constantly be aware and cautious about their own safety. It is very common for drivers to not see a motorcyclist and cause an accident as a result. New drivers may be unused to looking out for motorcycles altogether. Motorcyclists are already at a disadvantage because their vehicle offers no protection in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists cannot shoulder this responsibility on their own. It is up to every driver on the road to be careful, always look twice, and give each other enough room. But there are some tips that motorcyclists can learn that will make their rides safer and reduce the chances of an accident.
Visibility
One of the most common reasons drivers cite as the cause of an accident with a motorcycle is that they did not see the motorcyclist. One way to avoid this issue is to wear a helmet and colors that are highly visible.
Making Left-Hand Turns
If a driver does not see a motorcyclist at an intersection and turns in front of them, the result can be deadly or cause serious injury. The way to avoid this serious accident is to be ready for it. Any time you are waiting at an intersection you should be checking out cars in the turn lane, noting which direction their wheels are pointed, if they see you, etc. This is also true of driveways and parking lots. You must be on guard and covering your brakes, ready to take evasive action. Also, note routes of escape and judge distance so you never have to lay your bike down.
Only Ride As Fast As You Can See
Do not take turns too fast, especially if you do not know what is around the corner. Take the turn as wide as possible to increase visibility and use telephone poles and other markings to judge the direction and length of the turn. If you do take a turn too fast, trust your bike and do not slam on your brakes.
Car Changes Lanes
If a car changes lanes suddenly and veers into your lane, you will need to react immediately. This is another situation where you have to be aware of your surroundings and look for signs that this could happen in order to avoid it. Stay out of a car’s blind spot and if there is a traffic situation that makes one lane more desirable, try to stay out of it.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, seek legal help. Motorcycle accidents can be very serious and can cause catastrophic injuries or death. An experienced St. Louis auto accident attorney will help you seek compensation for damages and injuries sustained in the accident. These can include pain and suffering, lost wages, decreased future earning capacity, medical expenses, and more. Consult with The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242 for a free consultation.