When spring and summer are in full bloom, motorcyclists dust off their bikes and head out on the road. Before hitting the open road, motorcyclists and motor vehicle drivers should be aware of safety tips that could prevent fatal accidents.
Safety Tips for Motor Vehicle Drivers Regarding Motorcycles
Motorists should first be aware that when the weather is warm, more motorcycles will be on the road and they should be aware that motorcycles could be in their blind spots since they are smaller vehicles. When accidents between motorcyclists and cars occur, it is the motorist who often violates the rules of the road. This could be because the motorist is not anticipating the cyclist’s movement or the motorist’s view is obstructed in some way. Additionally, motorists may be distracted by an electronic device or otherwise. Older drivers with diminished abilities may be more likely not to notice a motorcyclist riding nearby.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists also have a great responsibility to drive with caution and take every safety precaution possible. Motorcyclists are more prone to accidents as they age. This is especially true for riders who may have ridden motorcycles in their 20s and have now re-entered the road as motorcyclists in their 50s or 60s. It is crucial to brush up on motorcycle skills at any age, especially as a person ages. Riders over the age of 50 comprise over 35 percent of motorcycle accidents.
Helmets are the single most important piece of safety equipment for motorcycle riders. Full coverage motorcycle helmets offer the best protection in the event of a crash. Riders should never buy a used helmet since they will not know for sure if the helmet has been in a crash. The Department of Transportation sticker guarantees that helmet safety standards are met. Additionally, be sure to choose a motorcycle that fits your body properly and invest in anti-lock brakes as this could save you from flipping over the motorcycle in a situation that requires you stop quickly.
Additional safety tips for motorcycle riders include:
- Assume you are invisible to other drivers
- Position yourself to be seen by other drivers where possible
- Use headlights during the day and night
- Drive courteously and do not weave in and out of lanes or drive on the shoulder
- Wear bright or reflective clothing that is visible at night
- Wear boots that cover your ankles
- Understand that riding with a passenger requires much more skill than riding alone
Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Lessin and Gompers Help Victims Claim the Compensation They Deserve
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, the Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers at Geoffrey B. Gompers & Associates can provide legal help. Call us today at 215-567-6600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices located in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, we proudly serve clients from the surrounding areas.