(702) 857-6000How To Avoid Motorcycle Accidents
Riding motorcycles can be extremely dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle deaths occurred 28 times more frequently than fatalities in other vehicles in 2016.
As personal injury attorneys, we have seen far too many motorcycle accidents that could have been prevented. There are many things that you can do to lessen the risk of being in a motorcycle crash. Here are some of our top motorcycle safety tips.
How To Avoid Common Motorcycle Accidents
Safe riding practices can reduce the number of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on our roads. Following these steps can greatly reduce the risk of crashes.
- Obtain a motorcycle license. All states require a separate motorcycle license endorsement in addition to a car driver’s license. To receive the proper authorization, most states require you to pass a written and practical test. Some states will also require you to take a State-sponsored motorcycle safety course.
- Ensure your bike is safe. Before every ride, you should check your tire pressure, tread depth, brakes, and fluid levels. If you are carrying items, make sure that your load is balanced. If you are carrying a passenger, you should ensure that he or she is as far forward as possible and has both feet on footrests at all times. A passenger should only get on the motorcycle after the engine is started and should not dismount until you say so.
- Wear proper safety gear. Always wear a motorcycle helmet that meets the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218. Replace your helmet regularly. A general rule of thumb is to replace your helmet every five years. For added protection, you should also be sure that your arms and legs are fully covered. Wearing brightly colored clothing with reflective material will help make you more visible to other drivers.
- Ride responsibly. Know and follow traffic laws, including stop lights, speed limits, and lane markings. Check your surroundings and use your turn signal before any lane changes. Beware of other vehicles’ blind spots.
- Pay attention. Many accidents happen because a motorcycle rider is not paying adequate attention to his or her surroundings. Leave plenty of room between your bike and other vehicles. If there is a road hazard ahead or a vehicle suddenly stops, you will need enough time to stop or take evasive action.
If you have been in a motorcycle accident, speak to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to learn more about your options.
Experienced Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney to get you the help you need. Contact Anthem Injury Lawyers at (702) 857-6000 today for a free consultation.
