Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle riding is an enjoyable activity that offers a sense of freedom, adventure, and excitement. However, it can also be dangerous, especially when riders make mistakes. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are common, and they often result in serious injuries or even death. To avoid these catastrophic incidents, it’s essential to recognize the common mistakes that riders make and how to avoid them. This blog will explore five fatal mistakes that can cause an accident.
- Riding Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the most significant mistakes that riders make. It impairs your ability to concentrate, balance, and react to situations, making it difficult to control your motorcycle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving was responsible for 28% of motorcycle fatalities in 2018. To avoid this mistake, it’s crucial to never ride your motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you do drink, have a designated driver or call a taxi.
- Not Wearing Protective Gear
Another fatal mistake that riders make is not wearing appropriate protective gear. Motorcyclists are at higher risk of injury or death in a crash than drivers of cars or trucks. Wearing a helmet, boots, gloves, and appropriate clothing can significantly reduce the severity of injuries. Wearing the right protection gear can help you avoid accidents or minimize the damage caused by one. Make sure that your helmet fits properly and meets safety standards.
- Speeding
Speeding is a common mistake that riders make, and it can have deadly consequences. According to the NHTSA, speeding was responsible for 33% of motorcycle fatalities in 2018.
To avoid this mistake, always obey the posted speed limit and adjust your speed based on weather and road conditions. Always remember that posted speed limits are for the most ideal conditions and factors like poor weather means you may need to drive under the speed limit.
- Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is the act of riding between two lanes of traffic, usually during traffic congestion. Although it’s legal in some states, it can be dangerous and fatal. Drivers may not expect motorcycles to be riding between lanes, and accidents can occur. Avoid this fatal mistake by not lane-splitting unless you absolutely have to. If you must lane split, do so at a slow speed, and watch for drivers who may not see you.
- Failing to Maintain Your Motorcycle
Finally, failing to maintain your motorcycle is a mistake that can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns, tire blowouts, and other issues that can cause accidents. To avoid this mistake, make sure that you maintain your motorcycle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Check your tire pressure, brakes, and other critical components regularly, and address any issues immediately.
Avoiding these fatal mistakes can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident. Always ride sober, wear appropriate protective gear, obey the speed limit, avoid lane splitting when possible, and maintain your motorcycle regularly. By doing so, you can enjoy the thrill of motorcycle riding while staying safe and reducing the likelihood of accidents. However, even when avoiding these mistakes, an accident can happen due to another party’s negligence. Should you get into an accident, a motorcycle accident lawyer can assist, something our friends at the Disparti Law Group know plenty about!
