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June 5, 2019

Summertime Motorcycle Safety Tips

Motorcyclist riding their bike
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Posted by: GDS Law Group, LLP

Some recently published data on motorcycle accidents in Indiana are encouraging, but other figures reveal that riders still face threats from other motorists. Indiana Traffic Safety Facts: Motorcycles 2018 reports that the number of fatal collisions decreased in 2018. Motorcycle accident injuries also decreased from the year before. As the weather gets warmer, a few summertime motorcycle safety tips can serve as a useful reminder on how to protect yourself from getting hurt in a crash.

Though you do all you can to reduce the chances of being involved in a motorcycle crash, you can’t dictate the actions of other drivers. If you incurred injuries despite your best safety efforts, you need skilled representation to fight for your right to compensation. To learn more about your legal options, please contact an Indiana personal injury lawyer at GDS Law Group today. To schedule a free consultation of your case, contact us today at (765) 313-7092.

Wear Proper Safety Gear

Indiana is one of several U.S. states that doesn’t require all motorcyclists to wear a helmet; only riders under 18-years-old must wear protective head gear while on a motorcycle. Still, data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should convince you of how critical it is to wear a helmet. The agency estimates that helmets are 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries.

Aside from a helmet, other tips on safety gear include:

  • Wear brightly-colored clothing and apply reflective tape to make yourself more visible.
  • Never ride in shorts or a skirt, as you could suffer road rash injuries in the event of an accident.
  • The best fabrics for riding include leather or high-tech materials, so consider making the investment if you ride often.
  • Always wear protective shoes or boots.

Don’t Drink and Drive

As a common-sense summertime motorcycle safety tip is not to operate any vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Not only is it illegal to drink and drive, but the dangers are even more extreme for riders. The Indiana Traffic Safety Facts report shows that 23.2% of motorcyclists killed in collisions in 2018 had some alcohol in their body, while 27.3% operators were over the legal limit.

Safety Tips for Riding in Traffic

Since many motorcycle wrecks are caused by other drivers, it’s important to remain extra cautious while riding. Always look out for hazards, such as the unexpected vehicle, person, or animal that may enter your path. In addition:

  • Keep your lights on to increase visibility.
  • Remember that motorcyclists must obey all traffic laws and signals, just as others sharing the roadway.
  • Always use turn indicators when turning, switching lanes, or engaging in other traffic maneuvers.
  • Avoid riding in the blind spots of other motorists.
  • Give yourself plenty of room – and time – to stop, turn, and avoid other motorists.
  • Never lane split, a maneuver that involves traveling in between lanes of traffic that have slowed or stopped. Lane splitting is illegal in all but one state in the nation.
  • Don’t carry passengers on a motorcycle designed for one person.
  • Take extra precautions when riding in the rain, sleet, snow, or nighttime conditions.

Speak to an Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

These summertime motorcycle safety tips may be helpful in reducing the likelihood of collisions, but riders are still at-risk of incurring harm due to the actions of negligent drivers. If you were hurt in a motorcycle collision that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. In this situation, it’s wise to work with an experienced attorney who can assist with the process.

For more information, please contact GDS Law Group today. We can explain your legal options after reviewing the details of your case. To schedule a no-cost evaluation, call (765) 313-7092, or reach out through the online form.

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