Now that summer is here, people all throughout West Virginia will be dusting off their motorcycles and getting back on the road. However, while many motorcycle riders may have spent the winter months waiting to get back on their bikes, most drivers don’t pay a second thought to motorcyclists until they encounter one on the highway.
A disturbingly large number of motorcycle accidents are caused by car and truck drivers who either do not see a motorcyclist or do not accurately perceive how their driving behaviors put motorcyclists at risk. Ultimately, every driver has a legal responsibility to operate his or her vehicle in a reasonably safe manner. With that said, though, there are some things that motorcyclists can do to protect themselves from inattentive or distracted drivers:
Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, especially in the scenic landscapes of West Virginia. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety on the road to protect yourself and others. Here are five Motorcycle Safety Tips, along with additional topics, to help you stay safe while riding in the Mountain State.
IMPORTANT MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS
1. Wear Proper safety Gear
Before hitting the road, ensure you’re wearing the appropriate protective gear. This includes a DOT-approved helmet, sturdy riding boots, durable gloves, long pants, and a jacket with reflective elements. Protective gear can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident and provide added protection against road debris and adverse weather conditions.
2. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are crucial for keeping your motorcycle in optimal condition. Before each ride, inspect your bike for any signs of wear or damage, including tire pressure and tread wear, brake functionality, lights, signals, and fluid levels. Keeping your motorcycle well-maintained can help prevent mechanical failures and ensure a safer riding experience.
3. Ride Defensively
Defensive riding is key to staying safe on the road, especially in West Virginia’s winding mountain roads. Always anticipate the actions of other motorists and be prepared to react quickly to unexpected situations. Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, avoid riding in blind spots, and use your signals and headlights to communicate your intentions to other road users.
4. Obey Traffic Laws
Adhering to traffic laws is essential for motorcycle safety. Always obey posted speed limits, use turn signals, and follow traffic signals and signs. Avoid aggressive riding behaviours, such as tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic, which can increase the risk of accidents. By obeying traffic laws, you can help reduce the likelihood of collisions and ensure a safer riding environment for everyone on the road.
5. Stay Visible
Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles on the road, so it’s crucial to take steps to increase your visibility to other motorists. Wear brightly coloured or reflective clothing, especially when riding in low-light conditions. Use your motorcycle’s headlights at all times, even during the day, and consider adding additional lights or reflective tape to make your bike more visible to others.
6. Watch The Weather
Keep an eye on weather forecasts before embarking on a motorcycle ride in West Virginia. Sudden changes in weather conditions, such as rain or fog, can pose additional hazards for motorcyclists. Avoid riding in inclement weather whenever possible, and if you must ride, reduce your speed and increase your following distance to maintain control of your bike.
7. Inspect Your Motorcycle
Regularly inspecting your motorcycle can help identify potential issues before they escalate into safety concerns. Check your bike’s brakes, tires, lights, and fluid levels regularly, and address any maintenance or repair needs promptly. By keeping your motorcycle in top condition, you can enjoy a safer and more reliable riding experience on the roads of West Virginia.
By following these essential motorcycle safety tips, you can enjoy the thrill of riding while minimising the risk of accidents and injuries in West Virginia. Remember to always wear proper protective gear, perform regular maintenance checks, ride defensively, obey traffic laws, stay visible, watch the weather, and inspect your motorcycle. With these precautions in place, you can have a safer and more enjoyable riding experience in the Mountain State.
What to do if an accident happens
If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to take steps to protect your rights. This is true even if you don’t initially think the accident is all that serious, since it is very common for motorcycle accident injuries to get worse over time.
Immediately after the accident, determine if anyone is injured and needs emergency assistance. Once the first responders have been called, exchange insurance and contact information with everyone involved and get the contact information of any witnesses present. If you have a camera handy (including the one on your phone), take pictures of the scene of the accident and the damage to the vehicles involved.
If you are injured – even a little bit – seek medical attention as soon as possible. Pay special attention to symptoms like headache, dizziness, confusion and nausea, as these could be symptoms of a traumatic brain injury.
If you have been seriously injured or are having difficulties working with the insurance companies, it is best to schedule a consultation with an experienced West Virginia motorcycle accident attorney. Do not give any recorded statements until you have talked with a lawyer. The lawyer will review the facts and circumstances of your case to advise you on your options for moving forward and seeking financial compensation for the injuries you have suffered.