Motorcycle Safety tips to avoid Alabama accidents

As thrilling as motorcycles are, they’re also dangerous; riders are exposed to the road and difficult for cars to see. In 2017, nearly 90,000 Americans were injured in motorcycle accidents. These tips will help you to be a safe and happy rider for years to come.

Tips For Improving Motorcycle Safety

1. Wear Protective Gear 

It’s estimated that in 2017 helmets saved the lives of 1,872 Americans. Helmets protect your brain in the event of a motorcycle accident, and in states like Alabama riders are legally required to wear them. However, safety doesn’t end with a helmet. You should also protect your arms legs and torso from injury by wearing thick materials like leather or denim. Wear shoes with nonskid soles and gloves that enhance your grip on the handles. Wear bright, reflective clothing to ensure other drivers see you no matter the time of day or weather conditions.

2. Check Your Motorcycle Before & After Mounting It

Before mounting, check the tires for cracks, bulges, and/or low tire pressure. Check the underside of the motorcycle for signs of a gas or oil leak. Check to make sure high and low beams are functioning properly and that you have plenty of hydraulic and coolant fluids.

After you’ve mounted, adjust the mirrors and clean away anything that’s blurring their surfaces. Test the horn and front and rear brakes; test the clutch and throttle.

Once these essential components have been tested, you’ll feel confident hitting the road. Even so, while you’re riding, look out for escape routes (through the traffic and into the margins or off the road) in case of an emergency.

3. Drive Defensively 

Motorcycles are easy to maneuver along the road, but they’re also easy for other drivers to miss. To ensure you and your passengers’ safety, you’ll want to assume other drivers can't see you. Imagine the road is divided into 3 sections; occupying the area closest to the line in the road will make you most visible, and keep you away from drivers’ blind spots.

Although you might be tempted to speed past cumbersome vehicles, slowing down will also ensure you’re visible and that other vehicles have time to react to your approach. Further, always use your signals before switching lines, and give drivers ample time to see them.

Read 5 more tips for motorcycle safety that will help you avoid an accident

Contact the motorcycle accident attorneys at Carey & Hamner today

 Even when you’re following riding best practices, motorcycle accidents happen; to get the justice you deserve for personal injury claims, rely on the Dothan motorcycle accident attorneys at Carey & Hamner, P.C. Whether you’ve been in an automotive collision or were injured on the job, our attorneys will work to understand your needs and provide personalized legal aid.  Our team understands the unique struggles following an injury, including physical and financial hardship;  we strive to win every customer the compensation they’re owed. For a free consultation, call (334) 673-1800.