Motorcycle Accidents: 4 Ways to Prevent Injury

Recent statistics show that one of the most dangerous states for motorcycle riders is Arizona. When comparing the number of motorcycle registrations to the number of fatalities, Arizona ranked fifth for most dangerous states for motorcyclists. In one year, the state had 164,055 registered motorcycles and 163 fatalities.

Despite the fact Arizona ranks so high on the list, motorcyclists can do some things to avoid accidents and injury. Discover four ways for motorcycle riders to prevent injury.

1. Wear Protective Riding Gear
One reason motorcycles are so dangerous is because, unlike vehicles with doors and a roof, motorcycles have no structural support. This means motorcyclists are less protected when they ride a motorcycle. If a motorcycle rider is hit by a vehicle or another object, or the motorcycle crashes to the ground, they don't have anything to shield themselves from injury.

That is, unless they wear the appropriate riding gear. To prevent injury, motorcyclists should always put on the following riding gear:

• A new full-face helmet
• A high-quality textile jacket or leather jacket
• A pair of textile riding pants
• A sturdy pair of oil-resistant boots with non-slip soles
• Gloves made from abrasion-resistant materials

Some motorcyclists opt to wear a one-piece motorcycle suit made out of leather. They can also wear motorcycle body armor. Since motorists often have a hard time seeing motorcycles, riders may want to opt for a light-colored helmet and bright riding gear, which makes them more visible.

When motorcyclists buy a helmet, they should never buy a used one. They should also avoid wearing blue jeans. Besides protecting motorcyclists from injury, protective riding gear also protects them from the sun, wind, and rain.

2. Keep Up With Tire Maintenance
The tires of a motorcycle are the only thing that separates its rider from the road. Even though many parts on a motorcycle should be well-maintained, you especially need to keep up with tire maintenance.

If the tire pressure is too low or the tire blows without warning, a serious accident and injury could result from it. Discover some ways for motorcycle owners to practice proper tire maintenance:

• Look for signs of tire damage, such as punctures, cracks, or bulges.
• Check the tire pressure on a regular basis and add air when necessary.
• Use a quarter to check the tire tread.

Well-maintained motorcycle tires will not only prevent injury, but the tires will also last longer.

3. Follow Traffic Rules and Obey the Law
As with all motorists, those who ride motorcycles should always follow the traffic rules and obey the law. Motorcyclists should always slow down for yellow lights, come to a complete stop at red lights, and never speed.

Discover some other rules and laws motorcyclists need to abide by:

• Use their turn signals.
• Ride with their headlight on.
• Never ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never ride between lanes of traffic.
• Never pop wheelies.
• Don't follow other vehicles too closely.
• Never ride in inclement weather.
• Always ride defensively.

Motorcycle riders should also take extra precaution when riding with a passenger. They should only ride with a passenger if the motorcycle is made for more than one person. Also, don't exceed the weight limit of the motorcycle.

Motorcyclists with a passenger need to allow extra time for braking and taking corners. Also, the passenger should never make sudden movements. This could cause the driver to lose balance.

4. Beware of Road Hazards
Motorcycles are smaller and less stable than cars and other vehicles. For this reason, objects in the road pose a greater threat of accidents and injury to motorcyclists. Motorcyclists need to avoid distracted driving and pay close attention to what's on the road in front of them.
Some road hazards that have the most potential for accidents and injury include:

• Traffic lanes that are different heights
• Rough roads or roads topped with gravel
• Expansion joints and open bridge joints
• Standing water
• Debris in the road including tire treads, branches, and rocks
• Dead animals on the road, or large live animals, such as deer

One more road hazard is anything that makes the surface of the road slick. This includes things like snow, ice, oil, anti-freeze, fresh paint, and wet leaves.

Unfortunately, even though motorcycles take all the necessary safety precautions, accidents still happen. Many of these accidents are from other vehicles on the road. If you or a loved one received injuries from a motorcycle accident, you may be able to receive compensation for your injury.

The first thing you'll need to do is talk to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. If you live in the Glendale, Arizona area, contact Garrison Law Firm. Our motorcycle accident attorneys will break down the legal process in an understandable way as well as establish fault, collect evidence, and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.