Motorcycles can be a lot of fun to ride, especially when the weather is nice or you are riding with friends. However, the nature of a motorcycle means that if you are in an accident, you are much more at risk for serious injuries simply because your body is so much more exposed to the collision than it would be were you in a car. If you’re going to enjoy riding a motorcycle, be sure to follow these five motorcycle safety tips to reduce your chances of being critically injured in the event that you are in an accident.
- Wear a DOT Approved Helmet with Eye & Face Protection
One of the most important things you can do to protect yourself while riding a motorcycle is to wear a DOT approved helmet. Although the state of South Carolina does not require motorcycle riders over the age of 21 to wear a helmet, you are taking a serious gamble with your life if you choose not to wear one. A motorcycle accident can easily result in a traumatic brain injury or even death if a helmet is not worn. A helmet with a full face shield that provides eye and face protection from wind and flying debris is your best choice.
- Wear Thick, Protective Clothing
If you are in an accident, there’s a chance that your body will be thrown across the road or dragged on the pavement. This can cause friction burns, commonly called “road rash,” which can be very painful and in some cases, life threatening. Wear thick, protective clothing like jeans or leather pants and a jacket to protect your skin from friction burns in the event of a crash, even if it’s warm outside.
- Make Sure You Are Visible to Drivers of Other Vehicles
If you are riding a motorcycle at night, be sure that you are visible to other drivers. Make sure your headlights and taillights work properly, and consider wearing reflective clothing so other drivers can easily see and avoid you.
- Drive Defensively, Not Aggressively
Many motorcycle drivers believe that because their vehicle is smaller, that they can go faster or weave in and out of cars to get through traffic. Driving aggressively on a motorcycle can lead to an accident, and it’s best to drive defensively instead of aggressively. Watch for the actions of other drivers and respond to them accordingly.
- Never Drive in Hazardous Conditions
Hazardous road conditions or inclement weather is well known to cause motorcycle accidents that result in serious injuries. If it’s raining or icy out, take a car instead of your motorcycle to get to where you need to go. Avoid roads that you know are under construction and instead take a detour.
Even when you take as many safety precautions as possible, motorcycle accidents can still occur. Guest & Brady is an experienced South Carolina motorcycle accident law firm that works with clients all over the state that have been injured in a motorcycle crash. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, despite taking safety precautions, you need zealous legal representation. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your legal rights, at (864) 233-7200.
