According to the latest vehicle mile travel data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle traffic crash than passenger car occupants. To reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on the roadway, all motor vehicles need to use safe driving practices – especially motorcyclists, whose visibility and compact size pose several safety challenges. Here are three motorcycle safety tips to help you stay safe on the road.
- Wear A Helmet
For safe riding, always wear a motorcycle helmet, whether it’s legally required or not. If you get into an accident, your helmet can protect you from sustaining a debilitating brain injury and even death. Plus, helmets help shield you from inclement weather and flying objects so you can focus on safe driving practices.
- Ride Defensively
When traveling on a motorcycle, remember that other drivers may not see you. That’s because motor vehicles often have significant blind spots that can conceal both you and your motorcycle entirely. To reduce your chances of an accident, try to wear reflective clothing, even during the day. And you’ll want to employ defensive driving techniques, such as giving yourself enough room to change lanes, using turn signals and driving the speed limit.
- Obey The Law
Going hand-in-hand with defensive driving methods, obeying the rules of the road can help reduce the risk of being injured in an accident. Keep an eye out for traffic signs, yield the right-of-way, follow the speed limit and be cautious in construction zones – road conditions can change in an instant.
Even with good judgment and coordination, you may still sustain injuries from an accident where the other motorist is at fault. If this happens to you, make sure to contact the experienced Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorneys at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad to start building your case right away.