Motorcyclists and the Dan…

Motorcycles make up a small percentage of vehicles on the road, yet motorcycle accidents account for a higher percentage of traffic deaths. Even when a motorcycle accident is not fatal, it can lead to catastrophic injuries for the rider.

Even the most experienced rider can be injured or killed in a motorcycle accident. And as cars get bigger and are increasingly equipped with distractions like DVD players, navigation equipment, and high-tech sound systems, motorcyclists need to protect themselves by riding defensively and taking appropriate safety precautions.

Protect Yourself Against Serious Injuries from a Motorcycle Accident

As a motorcycle rider, you deserve the same respect as other vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, many drivers won’t give it to you, or they simply won’t be on the lookout for bikers. While you cannot completely eliminate the risks of riding a motorcycle, you protect yourself from a severe motorcycle injury.

Weather Can Create Hazardous Riding Conditions

Michigan weather can be fickle, especially during the summer months. Many motorcycles become unstable on wet roads, and rain will limit visibility. Before riding, check the weather and prepare ahead of time.

Riding Gear Provides Additional Protection in a Motorcycle Crash

Regardless of the weather, shorts and a T-shirt are not proper motorcycle attire. If you plan to ride, wear appropriate gear to protect your body during a crash. Consider wearing a motorcycle jacket, pants, gloves, body armor, hearing and eye protection, and reinforced boots.

You can give yourself additional protection by wearing bright colors and highly visible clothing to make yourself more easily seen by other drivers.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, you should never ride without a helmet.

Watch Other Drivers to Anticipate Their Moves

Riding safely in heavy traffic requires that bikers anticipate what other drivers will do. You can do this by watching other drivers’ head movements. Most drivers won’t change lanes or make a sudden movement without first moving their head. In many cases, this will give you a precious second or two to avoid a collision.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Mirrors are an essential safety tool that assists with situational awareness. Use them to remain aware of vehicles around you and to prevent accidents. Even when using your mirrors properly, you should still keep your head and eyes up, especially when rounding corners. And even after checking your mirrors, you should still glance over your shoulder to check your blind spots before changing lanes.

Follow Traffic Laws

Set a good example by following all applicable traffic laws. Avoid lane-splitting and other dangerous behaviors. Unsafe riding makes it more difficult for other drivers to see you and increases the risk of an accident.

Prepare to React Quickly

In traffic, you may need to react quickly to avoid a collision. Increase reaction time by keeping your foot close to the rear brake pedal and a finger or two on the handle brake lever.

Muth Law, P.C. Represents People Who Were Injured in Motorcycle Accidents

Despite taking all the appropriate precautions, even the most cautious rider can still be hurt in a motorcycle accident. If you or someone you love was injured, Muth Law can help. Our lawyers will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Muth Law has over 40 years of experience helping people who were hurt in motorcycle accidents. While we cannot heal your injuries, we can seek compensation from the people responsible and ease your burden so you can focus on what matters most: your health and your family.

We handle motorcycle accident injuries on a contingency fee, which means you will never pay us a fee unless we recover money for you.

We invite you to learn more about us, and to contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case. Call 734-481-8800 anytime or email us at info@muthlawpc.com to schedule a free consultation.

Muth Law proudly represents people in Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, and throughout Michigan.

Categories: Motorcycle Accident