Top 5 Safe Driving Tips from A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

It's an unfortunate fact, but statistics show that an accident involving a car and a motorcycle is more likely to result in a fatality than accidents involving two cars is. As a motorcyclist, there are many things that you can do to improve your own safety on the road. Here are some tips to incorporate into your daily life to reduce the risk of serious injury or death while you're enjoying your ride.

Give Your Bike a Once Over

Before you hit the road, take a brief minute to look over your motorcycle and make sure everything is in good shape and is ready to go. If you have wobbly wheels, sticky brakes, or a wiggly throttle, these things should be repaired before you go out. This step doesn't take a long time, but it may be a life-saving habit if you can take the time to do it.

Never Neglect Safety Gear

The moment you bought your motorcycle, you should also have bought all the necessary safety equipment: A Department of Transportation approved helmet with a face shield attached, boots that cover your ankles, and sturdy gloves. However, if you don't have all of this gear ready to go, make sure you get it as soon as possible so you can stay safe on the road.

Be a Defensive Driver

When you're on your motorcycle, make sure that you have your eyes on the road and on what's going on around you. Try to stick to one lane rather than changing lanes too much. motorcyclists often get in trouble when they are splitting lanes or riding between vehicles. You shouldn't be in so big a hurry that you're weaving in and out of traffic and not looking ahead for potential hazards.

Make Yourself Stand Out

It's pretty common for a motorist after an accident with a motorcycle to say that they never even saw the motorcycle or didn't know it was there. As a motorcyclist, it's easy for drivers to miss you completely. Make sure when you're out riding that you're staying far behind the car in front of you so that you're not sitting in their blind spot. And although wearing black head to toe may look cool or give you a certain edginess, try to wear something that people will notice, especially when it's close to getting dark or is already dark outside.

Drive with a Clear Head

If you're feeling tired or if you've just consumed alcohol or any drug, don't go out on your motorcycle. Going out on your motorcycle might seem like a great way to clear your head after an argument or when you're feeling angry, but you might be too distracted to ride safely. Be sure that every time you go out, your mind is clear of any distractions.

Owning a motorcycle can be incredibly fun but it can also be dangerous if you're not careful and hyper-aware of what the other motorists on the road are doing. Rather than leave it all up to the cars to take care around you, incorporating these tips and habits into your life as a motorcyclist could ultimately save your life.