When you think of injury attorneys and accidents, typically you think of car accidents, but a surprising number of accidents we see are actually motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are less visible to fellow drivers and less stable than their four-wheeled counterparts which makes motorcycles more likely to be involved in accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in traffic accidents than car passengers. This is a staggering statistic indeed; because of the injury and fatality rate of motorcycle accidents, we see many of these cases come through the local courts. Insurance companies will try to use whatever they can to minimize their liability and payments made.  Here are some tips to think about when riding motorcycles that could not only keep you safer, but could potentially win your case should you or a loved one be involved in a motorcycle accident.

If riding a motorcycle, remember these key factors:

Wear the Proper Protection. 

This means—you guessed it—wear a helmet! (Head injury is reduced by 69% and the risk of death is reduced by 42% if a helmet is worn.) You should also have arms and legs covered with a thick material like denim or leather. You could even wear bright or reflective colors to be more visible to other drivers.

Ride Responsibly. 

Don’t ride recklessly! Don’t turn “Evil Knievel” on the highway, it puts you and others at risk. Obey traffic signs, lights, road markings, follow the flow of traffic, and be aware of your surroundings. Remember to drive not just for yourself, but others around you. When you are obeying the laws and the other driver is reckless, or at fault, that is where cases are won.

Don’t Ride Under the Influence. 

First, it’s illegal to drive under the influence, and by doing so you could forfeit any claim you may have should you be involved in an accident. Secondly, alcohol and drugs can severely impair a person’s driving ability. Studies show they make a person less alert and reduce their reaction time which can affect throttle control and a person’s ability to shift gears. Again, the best thing you can do is to follow the laws of the road to ensure your safety, the safety of those around you and to ensure should the unspeakable happen — you’re entitled to compensation.

Keep your headlights on 

During the day and at night, keeping your headlights on is important for motorcycles. Since you’re not driving a vehicle as large as a car or truck, having the extra lights can be the difference between another motorist seeing you in the lane or not.

Follow the rules of the road

Speed limits, lane shifting, using turn signals, passing zones, not driving on the shoulder or weaving in and out of traffic are all rules you should responsibly follow all the time, but especially on a motorcycle.  

Drive defensively 

Defensive driving is one of the very best ways to help keep you safe on your motorcycle. Defensive driving is mindful driving which helps you stay safe while making wise choices as you drive. Practicing things like not following too closely can help avoid sudden braking or surprise accidents.

Riding the right size bike 

It might not always feel cool, but it feels way better then serious injury. Motorcycles come in all sizes- but, most experts agree you should be able to straddle the motorcycle and place both feet firmly on the ground. If you’re leaning while straddling your bike, it’s probably too large.

Were You Injured in a Tennessee Motorcycle Accident?

There’s no need to suffer alone due to someone else’s negligence. The experienced legal team at Weir & Kestner Injury Attorneys focus on providing the best possible representation to victims of motorcycle accidents. Contact us online or call our office directly at 615.220.4180 to schedule your free consultation. We’ll arrange a time to meet with you at one of our offices in Smyrna, Nashville, Murfreesboro or Chattanooga—whichever location is most convenient for you.