Avoid Motorcycle Crashes – Ten Motorcycle Defensive Driving Tips
Even though motorcycle fatalities decreased in 2020, riders are still overrepresented in the total number of traffic deaths. Almost 5,000 motorcyclists lost their lives in motorcycle crashes during 2020 In addition to fatalities, thousands of motorcyclists are seriously injured each year in motorcycle crashes.
Unfortunately, it is up to riders to take steps to reduce their risk for motorcycle crashes. Most motorists do not pay enough attention to the road to keep a proper lookout for motorcycles. Because of the lack of attention given to motorcycles by other drivers, riders should take adopt defensive driving behaviors to reduce the risk of injury and death from a motorcycle accident.
Motorcycle Defensive Driving Tips to Help Avoid Motorcycle Crashes
1. Keep Your Lights On
Keeping your lights on during the day can increase your visibility to other motorists.
2. Use Hand Signals
You are required to use signals when turning. However, using hand signals with your motorcycle’s signals can help drivers who may not be paying close attention to see that you are slowing down to turn.
3. Wear Colorful Clothing
In addition to purchasing a colorful motorcycle and a colorful motorcycle helmet, it can be helpful to choose colorful motorcycle clothing. Bright colors can increase your visibility to other drivers.
4. Assume Motorists Do Not See You
Always assume that motorists do not see you. If you take evasive actions and pay close attention to drivers at intersections and side streets, you may avoid motorcycle crashes.
5. Maintain More Distance Between Vehicles
Whenever traffic conditions permit, leave extra space between your motorcycle and the vehicles around you. More distance between vehicles gives you more time to avoid motorcycle crashes.
6. Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is dangerous for all drivers, but especially for motorcycles. You already know that drivers don’t pay attention to you. You need your full focus on the road to watch for other drivers who might not be paying enough attention to see you.
7. Watch for Road Hazards
Road hazards can cause motorcycle crashes. These hazards include debris, loose gravel, oil, potholes, standing water, and uneven pavement.
8. Don’t Ride After Drinking Alcohol
No one should drink and drive. Just a couple of beers can cause reductions in judgment and the ability to perform two tasks simultaneously. Three beers reduce coordination and make it more difficult to steer a vehicle.
9. Get Plenty of Rest Before Riding
Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, in some cases. Before riding, always get a good night’s sleep. If you are planning a trip, create an itinerary that gives you plenty of time to sleep each night.
10. Avoid Riding in Poor Weather Conditions
Whenever possible, avoid riding in poor weather conditions. Poor weather conditions increase your chance of motorcycle crashes from reduced visibility and road hazards.
Contact an Erie Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, call 911, get medical treatment, and call an Erie motorcycle accident attorney. Motorcyclists are unfair and unjustly blamed for accidents that they did not cause. Protect your right to receive the compensation you deserve by working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Contact The Travis Law Firm by calling (800) 401-2066 to schedule your free legal consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer in Erie, P.A.