Motorcycles are gaining popularity around the world. The sense of freedom and adventure they evoke appeals to countless people, and being part of the biker brotherhood is an experience like no other. That being said, the excitement of riding also comes with certain inherent risks. Reports show that more than 200 motorcycle accidents occur in America per day, so the chances of being in an accident aren’t negligible. Understanding which factors contribute to accidents and increase their likelihood can help keep you safer.
Experience and Skill Level
Motorcycle accidents that involve novice riders are far more common than those among experienced bikers. Handling a motorcycle well requires practice, skill, and confidence. Those factors are equally important when it comes to watching other drivers and responding to their actions or dealing with unexpected hazards. With that being the case, skill and experience can greatly reduce your risk of being in a motorcycle crash and needing help from an idaho personal injury lawyer.
Speed
As you might imagine, excessive speed is another contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Exceeding the speed limit has led to countless motorcycle crashes, and those accidents tend to result in more serious injuries. Paying attention to speed limits and adjusting your speed according to road conditions, traffic, and other elements is crucial for preventing motorcycle wrecks.
Traffic
Heavy traffic can also play a major role in motorcycle accidents. Abrupt stops, sudden lane changes, and other hurdles pose more danger to bikers than to people in passenger vehicles. Paying attention to others on the roads and having the experience to handle those issues can reduce the risk of accidents. Still, even the most cautious biker can’t predict other drivers’ actions and completely avoid all traffic-related hazards.
Weather
Weather can increase the likelihood of being in a motorcycle crash as well. Rain, snow, and ice make the roads more slippery. Fog and heavy downpours reduce visibility. Stong wind makes motorcycles a bit more difficult to handle. Being mindful of the weather and its impacts and adjusting your speed accordingly is crucial in inclement weather. Stopping well behind other vehicles and exercising extra caution on curvy roads can also reduce the risks.
Condition of the Roads
Another factor to keep in mind is the condition of the roads you’re traveling on. Rough roads that are filled with cracks and potholes can certainly contribute to motorcycle accidents. A small pothole that wouldn’t have any impact on a passenger vehicle can easily cause a motorcycle to flip or spin out. Uneven pavement may send a motorcycle and its riders tumbling out of control.
Vehicle Maintenance
Routine maintenance can reduce the chances of being in a motorcycle accident, too. Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and other mechanical problems often contribute to crashes. Since other drivers aren’t always diligent about watching for motorcycles, malfunctions that happen in transit can lead to serious injuries and losses of life.
Riding Under the Influence
Additionally, alcohol and illegal drugs are leading causes of motorcycle accidents. Those substances cloud people’s judgment, reduce their awareness, hamper their coordination, and slow their reaction times. All those factors make crashes more likely. Avoiding alcohol and drugs when operating a motorcycle is crucial.
Staying Safe on the Road
All things considered, the likelihood of being in a motorcycle accident is fairly high. Though it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risks of being in a crash, keeping in mind all the factors listed here can greatly reduce the chances. Above all else, ride responsibly, be mindful of your surroundings, and keep your motorcycle in optimal condition. Those actions can keep you safe and enable you to avoid many of the dangers of the road, including those brought about by other people.
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