It should come as no surprise that the chances of being in a motorcycle accident decrease as the number of vehicles on the road decreases; this is true of any type of automotive accident. However, there is a high correlation between motorcycle accidents and the involvement of cars in an accident. No matter how many precautions you may take, it is nearly impossible to account for the negligence of other drivers.

There are a few common types of motorcycle accidents that you can take action to avoid. Here are some tips from a personal injury attorney in the Baton Rouge area when it comes to staying safe on the roadway as a motorcyclist.

Follow Cyclist & Roadway Laws

The rules on any motorway are there for your safety. Following them is the easiest way to make sure that you make it safely to your destination. Thousands of accidents occur each year thanks to drivers that think they are above traffic laws. While you can’t account for every driver, following traffic rules and staying alert to roadway or law changes can help you see potential accident conditions faster and avoid them altogether.

Take Care of Your Equipment

A vehicle that is well maintained is not likely to develop mechanical malfunctions. Make sure that you check and change your oil and other fluids regularly. Check all gauges, tires, and lights before each trip. Beyond that, you need to make sure that your bike is getting regular checks and maintenance, just like any car. Always make sure that any abnormal sounds or signs of extensive wear are addressed right away.

Stay Alert

When you’re on the road, you need all of your senses and mind alert to the environment around you. Just because you have experience on a motorcycle doesn’t mean that you can’t be involved in an accident. Things can change in an instant; if you’re distracted, it could mean your life. Being alert to your surroundings means that you often have more reaction time to avoid a potential accident.

Taking Extra Care At Intersections

The majority of motorcycle accidents take place at intersections. Even if you are approaching a green light, be aware of cross traffic and whether or not all vehicles have come to a complete stop. Make sure that you begin to slow down if you are coming up on a yellow light to prepare for a stop and avoid potentially running the light and entering into an intersection where the lights are changing.

Avoid Driving In Bad Weather

You might want to be on your bike every second of the day, but it isn’t always the best idea. Bad weather can decrease the traction and handling of your motorcycle. In unfavorable weather, it’s better to keep your motorcycle in the garage and find another form of transportation.

Gear Up

It doesn’t matter if you’re a weekend warrior or if your motorcycle is your primary means of transportation; you need to make sure that you’re dressed appropriately to ride. This means layers in cold weather and long sleeves/pants in all weather. Leather is best, but denim is also a popular choice. Reflective clothing and gear is also recommended. And of course, no biker should be on the road without a properly fitting helmet.

Help Recovering From An Accident

No matter how prepared you think you are, it pays to know what personal injury attorney you or your loved ones will need to contact if the worst were to happen. To learn more about how our experienced attorneys can help you, check out https://www.stephenbabcock.com/.

Babcock Injury Lawyers

10101 Siegen Lane, Ste. 3C

Baton Rouge LA 70810

(225) 222-2625

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