While many people may be able to walk away from a car accident with only a few cuts and bruises, this is seldom the case for motorcyclists. Motorcycles offer very little in the way of protection during a serious accident, which is why it is important to do everything that you can to reduce the chances of severe injury in case an accident occurs.
The tips below can help you minimize the impact of a motorcycle accident. If another person was responsible for your accident, the Columbus motorcycle accident attorneys at O’Connor Acciani & Levy can discuss your options for recovering compensation in a free legal consultation.
Wear A Helmet
Wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways to prevent an accident from causing death or brain damage. Consumer Reports recommends wearing a helmet that is properly fitted and includes a full faceplate. The helmet should be certified by the Department of Transportation. Replace your helmet at least once every five years or immediately after it sustains any damage.
Wear Protective Gear
Wear protective gear at all times when riding. Proper protective gear includes:
- Sunglasses or other eye protection
- Closed-toe boots or shoes
- Gloves
- A long-sleeved sturdy jacket, such as one made of leather
- Leather or full-length pants
Be Seen
A significant number of motorcycle accidents occur when other motorists do not see motorcycles. These vehicles are smaller in size and may be easy to miss. A car may make a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle by failing to look for motorcycles, or the motorist might think he or she can beat the bike. Even if the motorist does, the motorcyclist may be thrown from his or her vehicle when trying to brake suddenly.
To avoid these potential problems, it is important to increase your visibility as much as possible. Consider buying a colorful bike instead of one that is black or another neutral color and add headlamps and reflectors to your vehicle. Increase your own visibility by wearing brightly-colored protective gear, such as bright yellow, red or orange clothing.
Take A Motorcycle Safety Course
Riding a motorcycle is much different than driving other types of vehicles. It requires specific skills and abilities that may not come naturally to many individuals. Motorcycle safety classes can help new drivers establish these skills and help more experienced riders hone them.
Most motorcycle accidents only provide a rider with two seconds to avoid a potential collision, so it is important to know how to react in case of an emergency. If riders are not careful they can take action during these moments that actually increase the risk of severe injury, such as by braking too hard on the rear wheel or not breaking hard enough on the front wheel, which can reduce the ability to stop the vehicle or steer to avoid possible hazards. You can learn how to avoid these hazards in a motorcycle safety course.
Motorcycle safety courses provide important training and information to bikers, including:
- Learning about local and state traffic laws
- The ability to test riding abilities in a controlled environment
- Learning how to respond in an emergency situation
Perform Regular Maintenance
Bikes that are better maintained are less likely to be involved in an accident. You should do complete periodic tune-ups and tire checks to stay safe on the road. Take your bike to a qualified mechanic to have it looked over on a regular basis.
Contact Us For A Free Legal Consultation
Even if you follow all of the tips listed above, you may still find yourself injured in a motorcycle accident. Injuries caused by motorcycle accidents are often expensive and can leave you unable to work.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, contact an experienced personal injury attorney in Columbus at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy. Our compassionate personal injury attorneys can help recover compensation for accident victims. We know how much a motorcycle accident can affect a victim and his or her family, and we are dedicated to helping you secure fair compensation.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to review the facts of your case and determine the legal options that may be available to you.