According to statistics, more than 100,000 people were reported injured in vehicle crashes involving snowy, slushy, or icy pavement. And while this number continues to increase as the years go on, it urges drivers to take their defensive driving skills to the next level. 

It’s no secret. Drivers don’t always keep up with the latest accident prevention articles on the web. But with the colder months quickly approaching, winter weather driving tips may be just what you need to keep safe. read more

Motorcycle crash fatalities are 28 times more frequent than fatal passenger vehicle crashes.

We don’t say that to scare you. We say it to express how important safety is on your ride.

As many benefits as motorcycles have, the dangers are real. While you can’t control all your risk factors, there are things you can do to lower your risk of motorcycle accidents, especially as the holiday travel season approaches.

Tips for Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents

Before your next ride, keep these safety tips in mind.

1. Be Noticeable

One of the common ways motorcyclists get into accidents is when cars turn out in front of them. You can’t control the fact that other drivers don’t always pay attention, but you can take actions to make yourself as noticeable as possible.

First, wear noticeable colors. If you’re riding at night, wearing black from head to toe won’t do you any favors.

Second, position yourself like a car. Leave as much space between yourself and the cars in front of you as you would if you were a car. Don’t drive in between two lanes of cars. Overall, the key is to be where cars would expect you to be.

Along these same lines, be careful not to ride in any cars’ blind spots. This includes not riding too close to the car in front of you. If you do, other drivers who want to turn or change lanes behind that car won’t see you.

Finally, never assume anyone can see you. Defensive driving can save lives.

2. Be Hyper-Aware

In the same way that you want other drivers to keep an eye out for you, you need to be aware of your surroundings as well to avoid a motorcycle accident.

No matter how long your ride may be, keep your mind on the road instead of getting distracted. Always know where the cars around you are by scanning your surroundings as well as your mirrors.

On top of other cars, you need to keep a watch on the road itself as well. Obstructions that seem small can launch a motorcycle into the air.

3. Practice Weather-Safe Driving

Weather is on the way and we’ll have snowy driving conditions before you know it. The weather should have an important effect on your driving habits.

If the road is slippery from ice, leave more space in front of your motorcycle than you would otherwise.

In some cases, the weather can also affect other drivers’ visibility. Whether the problem is fog, heavy rain, or heavy snow, try not to ride during these times. If you must, make sure your lights are on.

4. Keep Up with Your Maintenance

Proper maintenance doesn’t just protect you from expensive repairs. It helps you prevent accidents as well.

Keep up with your regular maintenance appointments so your motorcycle doesn’t have a critical problem. Check your lights every time to ride to ensure that they still work.

Your tires are among the most important parts of safety maintenance, though. Keep up with regular alignments and replace your tires as soon as their treads become worn.

Enjoying a Safe Ride

For most bikers, their motorcycle is more than a mode of transportation. It’s a passion. As important as these tips are for safety, though sometimes motorcycle accidents are unavoidable. If that happens, call our personal injury lawyer.