For motorcycle enthusiasts, longer days, balmy weather and blue skies make summer a great time to ride. However, it’s important to remember the risks involved in riding a motorcycle. In fact, motorcycle accidents are 26 times more deadly than auto accidents.
Still many enthusiasts enjoy a lifetime of riding without injury. The key is to vigilantly reduce and avoid risks wherever you can. 30-year Motorcycle Accident Attorney veteran, Edward C. Casey Jr. provides important tips for staying safe on the road.
Oakland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Provides Tips to Stay Safe and Cool This Summer
Before Your Ride
Inspect Your Bike. Inspect your motorcycle every time you ride. It only takes a few minutes, and can save your life. Check out Motorbikerider.com’s handy checklist .
Wear Safety Gear. California requires all motorcyclists wear a helmet. In fact, a motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of equipment in protecting against a critical head injury. Make sure your helmet is Department of Transportation-approved and includes a face shield or protective eyewear. Also remember to wear protective clothing, including gloves and boots that cover your ankles, even in the warmer summer months.
Keep hydrated. Bring more water than you think you’ll need, and plan stops along your route to cool off. Heat exhaustion or heat stroke can cause your body to shut down, which is obviously dangerous, especially on a bike.
During Your Ride
Stay Visible. Drivers tend to look for other cars, not for motorcycles. Motorcycles are the smallest vehicles on the road. Keep adequate distance between you and the vehicles around you. Ride in the best lane position to see and remain visible to others. Make sure all of your lights are operational and invest in gear that creates additional visibility.
Prepare for weather. Even though it’s summer, weather conditions change. Conditions like rain, dust, or excessive heat can be hazardous, particularly for inexperienced riders. Check the weather before planning a ride. Consider postponing or taking a different method of transportation, if weather conditions look bad. Visit DMV.org for more tips on Motorcycles and Weather Conditions .
Never ride distracted, impaired, aggressive or drowsy. Riding a motorcycle takes a great amount of focus, coordination and good judgment. Riding while impaired, in any way, can have devastating and deadly consequences. It’s also illegal to operate a motorcycle while under the influence. Visit DMV.org for a comprehensive overview of California DUI and DWI laws.
Obey traffic laws. Speed limits and local traffic laws exist to keep riders safe at all times. Remember to obey the rules of the road and always pass vehicles on the passing lane. Give yourself enough time to brake.
Consult an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Oakland Motorcycle Accident Attorney, Edward Casey Jr., understands the effects of motorcycle accidents and has years of experience in litigating and representing clients who have been involved in these types of collisions. Mr. Casey will manage your case and pursue your claim in order to ensure that you are justly compensated.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an accident, please contact our office for assistance or call to speak to our experienced attorneys.
