Motorcycles are generally less stable than cars. When a motorcycle is involved in an accident, the rider lacks the protection of an enclosed vehicle, making him or her more vulnerable to get seriously or even fatally injured. According to the federal government, per mile traveled in 2012, the number of deaths on motorcycles was over 26 times the number of deaths in cars.
Riding a motorcycle is the only means of transportation for some people. For others, riding a motorcycle is a fun pastime that they may enjoy only on weekends. Regardless of why you ride your motorcycle, you should take every precaution to safely operate the vehicle and to avoid, or at least reduce, the likelihood of getting into an accident.
Important Tips on Avoiding Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Safely riding a motorcycle requires both skill and judgment on the part of the rider. As a motorcyclist, you are susceptible to serious injuries when riding your bike. You are less visible to other vehicles on the road. If you are involved in an accident, the extent of the injuries you may suffer can be significant.
While you cannot totally avoid getting into a motorcycle accident, you can reduce the likelihood of getting into accidents if you remember 5 important safety tips while riding:
- Be prepared. While riding your motorcycle, be aware of your surroundings, especially what is happening behind you.
- Use 2 functional rear view mirrors. While most states only require the use of one rear view mirror, it is a good idea to use two fully functional and properly located rear view mirrors. This may be the only way to ensure that you can see what is going on behind you and be able to react quickly and accordingly.
- Don’t wear earplugs. It is never a good idea to wear earplugs while riding a motorcycle, especially in traffic. Earplugs can make it very difficult to hear approaching vehicles or screeching tires.
- Loud pipes save lives. An approaching motor vehicle is more likely to realize that a motorcyclist is in front, back or side of them if they can hear the motorcycle. The louder the pipes, the easier you are to detect.
- Use brighter tail and brake lights. Most state laws require that motorcycles be equipped with at least one brake light and one taillight that are visible from a certain distance. The more visible your lights are, the more likely you will be detected by other motorists on the road. LED lights are generally a better option for motorcycles, as they are significantly brighter than the normal bulbs with which most motorcycles come equipped.
Call a New York Motorcycle Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need to hire an attorney to help you obtain the compensation that you deserve. For more information or to consult with one of our experienced New York motorcycle accident attorneys, please call Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. at 1-800-529-9997.
