DIAL '3' FOR ME
334-333-3333If you drive a motorcycle, you are more vulnerable to accidents and injuries than other drivers on the road. Not only do you have to maneuver your motorcycle to avoid falling or skidding, but you must also watch out for other drivers who may fail to see you or try to overtake you in a lane. If you are involved in a collision, you will likely suffer much more serious injuries than a passenger vehicle driver.
As a motorcyclist, you can take precautions to protect yourself from negligent drivers and minimize injuries if a collision occurs. To pursue compensation for injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident, contact The Vance Law Firm.
Without a metal frame and the airbag protection a passenger vehicle offers, motorcyclists are at a much greater risk of injury or death in a collision. Alabama ranks as the 10th deadliest state for motorcycle accidents, with 93 deaths in 2020. To avoid these consequences of an accident, motorcycle riders need to remain as visible as possible.
Wearing bright clothing, installing reflective tape on your bike, and using headlight modulators can all help to make you more visible to other drivers. In addition, riding in well-lit areas and avoiding blind spots can also help reduce your risk of being involved in a collision.
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself while riding is to wear proper protective gear. Recommended gear includes:
Wearing a helmet is perhaps the most important precaution a rider can take because it can help prevent serious head injuries in a collision. In 2019, the NHTSA recorded that 57% of motorcyclist deaths were in states without mandatory helmet laws in cases where the riders were not wearing a helmet. This number drops to 9% in states that require riders to wear protective headgear.
Gloves and boots help to protect the hands and feet from road rash in the event of an accident, while a protective jacket can guard against scrapes and bruises. By taking these simple steps, riders can significantly reduce their chances of being injured in a motorcycle accident.
One of the most significant dangers motorcyclists face on the road is the risk of being struck by a car when passing or crossing. According to statistics, 41% of motorcycle accidents involve a collision with another vehicle where the car is making a left turn.
There are several reasons why this is the case. First, cars are much larger than motorcycles, and they can block the rider’s view of oncoming traffic. Additionally, cars often make sudden turns without signaling, catching a motorcycle rider off-guard.
Finally, many drivers simply aren’t looking for motorcycles, so they may not see one until it’s too late. For these reasons, motorcycle riders must exercise extra caution when passing or crossing. They should always double-check for oncoming traffic before moving and be prepared to brake quickly if necessary.
Motorcycle riders should avoid riding at night. It is more difficult to see in the dark, making it more likely that you’ll miss spotting obstacles or other vehicles. Fatigue is a common factor that affects night riding, as the body’s natural circadian rhythms make it harder to stay awake and alert.
Visibility is also a significant concern when riding at night. Other drivers have a more challenging time seeing motorcycles, and riders also have a harder time seeing potential hazards. Therefore, while some riders are comfortable with night riding, it is generally best to avoid it if possible.
Also, avoid riding in poor visibility conditions, such as rain, fog, or haze. These conditions limit your ability to see and may make it more difficult for other drivers to see you.
Motorcycle riders need to remain vigilant when out on the road. They should always be aware of their surroundings and know what other drivers are doing. These actions can help them perceive a negligent motorist based on the car’s behavior on the road.
In addition, motorcyclists need to be aware of their speed and how it might affect their ability to stop or turn. Leave at least four seconds of stop time between your motorcycle and other cards or more if you are carrying a passenger. Keeping extra distance from a car exhibiting dangerous driving can keep a motorcyclist out of trouble.
If you or a loved one have been injured by a negligent driver while riding your motorcycle, contact The Vance Law Firm to speak with a Montgomery motorcycle accident lawyer. We will review your case and help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
