3 Important Ways Motorcyclists Can Avoid Accidents

 Posted on January 11, 2024 in Personal Injury

Motorcyclists can have it pretty rough when out on the road. Cars and trucks refusing to give the right of way, failing to signal for left turns, or simply ignoring your existence are only a few of the reasons a motorcycle accident may occur. However, as a member of the road, it is your duty to look out for anything that could put you in a bad spot that would result in injuries or even death. Understanding how best to avoid accidents is a good way to minimize the possibility of either occurring. Of course, if you need legal advice or representation in a personal injury lawsuit, an attorney is only a phone call away.

Avoid Nighttime Rides

Though fun, riding a motorcycle at night, especially without reflective clothing, is a recipe for disaster. Riding under the cover of darkness only increases the likelihood of an accident occurring so it is in your best interest to avoid doing so whenever possible. Fatality facts show that 28 percent of motorcycle accidents that ended in death happened during the nighttime hours between 9 pm and 3 am.

Nighttime can hinder your vision making it difficult to see road debris, potholes, and wild animals on the road. Depending on the speed at which you are traveling, everything may seem like a blur with such limited visibility. Your reflexes may not be quick enough to avoid these obstacles, especially if you are driving fatigued or unalert.

Drivers behind the wheels of cars or trucks may not be able to see you on the road. This is exacerbated when that driver is also driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. In this condition, it is not uncommon for these drivers to behave erratically and unpredictably lending to an increase in the chance for a collision.

Avoid Driving During Extreme Weather

Even something as little as rain can become a nightmare when driving on a motorcycle. Roads become slippery, vision becomes impaired, and accidents are only one mistake away. A motorcycle is susceptible to the elements the more water and cold temperatures are introduced into the atmosphere. This is because motorcycles only have two wheels whereas cars and trucks have four.

Hydroplaning is a serious risk for all vehicles, but it can be especially damaging to a motorcyclist as it is hard to correct course once you begin to lose control. Be smart and always look at the weather forecast before opting for a motorcycle ride over the standard four-wheel choice.

Practice Makes Perfect

Practice hard maneuvers, emergency braking, adjusting speeds, and know your limits. Consistent training can only make you better out on the road. It does not fix the negligence of opposing vehicles but it does help with becoming more comfortable in potentially catastrophic situations and how best to avoid them. Continue to ride and build up your confidence so that you do not become another motorcycle fatality statistic.

Contact a Larimer County, CO Personal Injury Attorney

Understanding your place on the road can help you survive while driving on it. If you have been in a motorcycle accident and suffered injuries, look to an experienced Fort Collins, CO motorcycle accident lawyer for assistance. The Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. can provide legal counsel and representation in your time of need and fight for you in a court of law. Contact our firm for a free consultation by dialing 970-225-2190 right now.