A popular saying goes like this: prevention is better than cure. And this is true in every aspect of our lives, including when preparing to go out for a motorcycle ride. As Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys, we know motorcycle riders are exposed to a lot of risks because their vehicle offers them no protection. For this reason, we want to share some of the most effective motorcycle safety tips to follow.
Following these tips can significantly the risk of being involved in a traffic accident. However, if someone else is negligent and hits your motorbike, you can always count on an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney. We will analyze your case diligently and help you recover the maximum settlement amount you deserve for your damages.
First of all, let us discuss the obligations of every motorcycle rider on the roads.
Motorcycle Riders’ Rights and Obligations on the Public Roads of Georgia
The Official Code of Georgia 40-6-310 states that motorcycle riders have the same rights and obligations as the driver of any vehicle. There are, of course, a few exceptions that pertain to the specific nature of the vehicle.
An Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney knows that motorcycle riders must always:
- Ride astride a permanent and regular seat attached to the motorbike
- Wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet
- Maintain operational headlight, taillight, and turn signals
- Carry the same liability insurance coverage as car drivers (25/50/25).
In addition, Georgia motorcycle laws forbid riders from lane splitting and passing another vehicle in the same lane.
The Most Important Motorcycle Safety Tips You Must Remember
Over the years, Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys at our law firm have analyzed countless motorbike crashes. Thus, we know some of the most common contributory factors that lead to an accident.
Therefore, we can also offer effective motorcycle safety tips to help riders avoid a crash.
1. Check That Your Motorcycle Is Road Ready
Imagine that you are riding in the early morning or late at night. The visibility is reduced. Thus, any car driver behind you will rely on your taillight and turn signals to determine whether you apply the brakes or make a left or right turn. If any of these signals do not work, the driver may not be able to avoid a crash.
Thus one of the most important motorcycle safety tips is making sure that your vehicle is in good condition and all its critical systems are fully operational. Your safety is more important than any trip you want to take.
Also, if you are hurt in a crash, the fact that a signal was not working will be considered a sign of comparative negligence, reducing your claim amount.
2. Wear a DOT Approved Motorcycle Helmet
Wearing a motorcycle helmet is mandatory by law. It is also one of the most critical motorcycle safety tips to avoid catastrophic head and neck injuries. According to the National Safety Council, between 2002 and 2017 (the most recent data available), over 25,000 lives were saved by wearing a motorcycle helmet.
However, it is important to know that not all helmets are equal. An Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney has handled many cases where cheap and poorly manufactured helmets offered no protection to injured riders.
To help you find a reliable and properly fitting motorbike helmet, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has a helpful guide to selecting the right helmet.
3. Stay Out of Blind Spots
Many motorcycle crashes occur because the car driver cannot see the motorbike. Any motorcycle model is significantly smaller than a car. Drivers of large vehicles, such as SUVs, vans, or trucks have even bigger blind spots than other car drivers.
Thus, one of the simplest motorcycle safety tips is avoiding driving alongside a vehicle. If the driver tries to change lanes or make a turn, you may crash into them because you simply have no room to avoid the collision.
4. Maintain a Safe Distance From Other Vehicles
Traffic accidents, especially in poor weather conditions, occur because vehicles are too close to each other. On wet or icy roads, any vehicle needs a longer distance to come to a full stop when the driver applies the brakes.
For a motorcyclist, a rear-end collision can have severe consequences. Riders can be catapulted out of their seat and suffer severe back, neck, and head injuries. For this reason, always check the distance between your motorbike and the vehicles in front and behind you.
5. Wear Protective Gear
Why are they called motorcycle jackets, pants, and boots? Not only because they make you look cool as you ride astride your motorbike. Protective motorcycle gear is sturdier and padded, offering you effective protection against road rash and other soft tissue injuries.
Even though they cost more than regular clothes and footwear, it is a small investment compared to the medical costs, pain and suffering resulting from a motorcycle accident.
6. Wear a High Visibility Vest
The last item on our list of motorcycle safety tips is wearing a high visibility vest, especially in poor weather conditions and during the night. These vests are brightly colored and feature reflective elements. Any driver who has the headlights on will be able to see you from a safe distance to avoid a collision.
Our Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Are Here to Help You If You Were Injured
Despite all the precautions and motorcycle safety tips, you may be involved in a traffic accident because another driver is impaired or negligent. This is why we are here for you. At Diaz & Gaeta law firm, you will find a team of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, who know how to negotiate claims and win the maximum compensation you deserve.
We offer you a free case review, giving you the chance to present all the documents you have and your version of how things happened to a seasoned attorney. You will get a realistic estimate of the value of your case and a clear explanation of your legal options for recovery.
Call us now at 678-329-9084 to schedule your free initial case evaluation!
