Tips for Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
August 9, 2012 By David Zipfel & Associates
Motorcyclists and all motor vehicle drivers are at risk for an accident every time they drive. There are a vast number of events that can lead to an accident, and understanding these events can help lead to better accident prevention.
Many people choose to ride motorcycles to experience the joy of riding in the open air and the speed and agility of the bike. Motorcycles are also highly efficient on gas mileage and can be a way to reduce spending on gas. It is important for all drivers, both amateur and highly experienced, to work on recognizing perils on the road and learn the proper techniques for handling these situations.
In order to receive a Motorcycle License in the state of Connecticut, one must pass a knowledge test and undergo a motorcycle safety training course. This training course is helpful in teaching basic skills, but drivers will learn much more by getting real experience on the road. One must keep in mind that the majority of motorcycle accidents in which serious injuries were sustained are caused by factors that are under the control of the motorcyclist or other driver. Vehicle failure is only the cause of 3% of the accidents that led to serious injury, and poor road conditions are only responsible for about 2% of these accidents.
Still, it is always wise to check out the tires on the motorcycle before riding. When incisions and foreign objects are affecting the surface of the tire, riding can be extremely dangerous. Riders should also check the control cables, lights, turn signals, horns, mirrors, oil, fuel, and brakes before taking to the road. Make sure that the weather conditions are not extreme and be aware of strong winds or potential thunderstorms.
Even though you may be fully aware of the road, your bike and the weather, it may not be enough. In addition to monitoring one’s own motorcycle, a motorcyclist must also be aware of the actions of other vehicles around them. The number one cause of motorcycle accidents in the United States is an error from the other driver on the road. This can include distracted drivers, drivers who never noticed the motorcycle and other drivers who didn’t see the motorcycle soon enough to avoid an accident. The most common accident scenario involves an automobile turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle going straight, and this commonly happens because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and are more difficult to notice.
As intersections tend to be the most dangerous area for motorcyclists, always check for traffic coming from the side and behind as well as observing any turns from oncoming traffic. It is wise to use your headlamps, even during the day, to signal your intentions and use your horn. Statistics show that dusk is the most dangerous time to ride because people’s eyes are adjusting to headlights, so maintain a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Even though some accidents are preventable, there are certain accident situations that are out of our control. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident because of the negligence of another driver, it is important to take action to protect your rights. By filing a claim with the help of a personal injury attorney, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical costs, lost wages and more.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David A. Zipfel & Associates, LLC
David A. Zipfel & Associates, LLC has been devoted to helping victims of serious accidents in the Hartford area since 1978. Whether you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, slip and fall accident, or because of a defective product, call the firm today for compassionate legal advice and representation.
Copyright David Zipfel & Associates
More information about David Zipfel & Associates
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.
In order to receive a Motorcycle License in the state of Connecticut, one must pass a knowledge test and undergo a motorcycle safety training course. This training course is helpful in teaching basic skills, but drivers will learn much more by getting real experience on the road. One must keep in mind that the majority of motorcycle accidents in which serious injuries were sustained are caused by factors that are under the control of the motorcyclist or other driver. Vehicle failure is only the cause of 3% of the accidents that led to serious injury, and poor road conditions are only responsible for about 2% of these accidents.
Still, it is always wise to check out the tires on the motorcycle before riding. When incisions and foreign objects are affecting the surface of the tire, riding can be extremely dangerous. Riders should also check the control cables, lights, turn signals, horns, mirrors, oil, fuel, and brakes before taking to the road. Make sure that the weather conditions are not extreme and be aware of strong winds or potential thunderstorms.
Even though you may be fully aware of the road, your bike and the weather, it may not be enough. In addition to monitoring one’s own motorcycle, a motorcyclist must also be aware of the actions of other vehicles around them. The number one cause of motorcycle accidents in the United States is an error from the other driver on the road. This can include distracted drivers, drivers who never noticed the motorcycle and other drivers who didn’t see the motorcycle soon enough to avoid an accident. The most common accident scenario involves an automobile turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle going straight, and this commonly happens because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles and are more difficult to notice.
As intersections tend to be the most dangerous area for motorcyclists, always check for traffic coming from the side and behind as well as observing any turns from oncoming traffic. It is wise to use your headlamps, even during the day, to signal your intentions and use your horn. Statistics show that dusk is the most dangerous time to ride because people’s eyes are adjusting to headlights, so maintain a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Even though some accidents are preventable, there are certain accident situations that are out of our control. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident because of the negligence of another driver, it is important to take action to protect your rights. By filing a claim with the help of a personal injury attorney, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical costs, lost wages and more.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: David A. Zipfel & Associates, LLC
David A. Zipfel & Associates, LLC has been devoted to helping victims of serious accidents in the Hartford area since 1978. Whether you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, slip and fall accident, or because of a defective product, call the firm today for compassionate legal advice and representation.
Copyright David Zipfel & Associates
More information about David Zipfel & Associates
View all articles published by David Zipfel & Associates
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.
