Due to the lack of protection afforded by motorcycles, catastrophic injuries often occur in the event of a collision. Therefore, it’s crucial that you take the steps necessary to reduce your risk of a motorcycle accident.
The attorneys at Johnson & Biscone have witnessed first-hand the devastation caused by motorcycle accidents. We hope the following tips will help you stay safe when cruising the open road on your bike.
Wear the Proper Safety Gear
In Oklahoma, you aren’t required to wear a helmet if you’re over the age of 18. While they aren’t mandated by law, we strongly recommend that you wear a helmet every time you get on your motorcycle. Without a helmet, your head is completely unprotected. This significantly increases your risk of a serious brain injury in the event of a motorcycle accident.
Brain injuries can have a devastating impact on your life, resulting in:
- Loss of basic motor skills
- Memory loss
- Changes to your personality
- Difficulty speaking coherently
- Problems concentrating
- Lifelong disabilities requiring ongoing daily care
In addition, make sure you wear leather or another material that can help prevent road rash during a crash. You should also use eyewear that can protect you from rocks and other objects that may hit your eyes and damage your vision.
Drive Defensively
All motorists should drive safely and defensively, but this is especially crucial on a motorcycle. Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and able to react to any dangerous situations you encounter.
Motorcycle accidents often occur when a car makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle or merges into the bike’s lane. These collisions are common due to the fact that it’s easy for a motorcyclist to be lost in the blind spot of a passenger vehicle. You can reduce the likelihood of this problem by staying visible, anticipating the actions of other drivers and avoiding any reckless driving behavior that can result in an accident.
Watch for Hazardous Road Conditions
While many motorcycle accidents are caused by other vehicles, a poorly maintained road can be equally dangerous for a biker. Road hazards that have little to no impact on a car can result in catastrophic injuries when encountered on a motorcycle.
Whenever you are riding a motorcycle, keep an eye out for hazardous conditions such as:
- Loose gravel
- Potholes
- Uneven roads
- Fallen leaves
- Debris
- Wet or icy spots
Know How to Ride Your Motorcycle
Simply watching for these hazards isn’t enough. It’s also crucial that you have the skills to handle these conditions when you encounter them. Make sure you get the training necessary to properly handle a motorcycle. In addition, you should be familiar with the intricacies of your bike. Not all motorcycles handle the same, and you will need to know exactly how to maneuver your bike to address the specific road conditions in front of you.
Don’t Drink and Drive
While this tip applies to drivers of all vehicles, it is especially crucial when you are riding a motorcycle. Often, having sharp reflexes can mean the difference between avoiding a collision and suffering a catastrophic injury. Alcohol impairs your judgment, reflexes and ability to properly handle your vehicle. You’re putting yourself at great risk anytime you get on your motorcycle after drinking.
Contact our Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of another driver, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. The attorneys at Johnson & Biscone will fight aggressively to hold the at-fault driver accountable for your injuries.
Please contact Johnson & Biscone using the form on this page or call 405-232-6490 today to schedule a complimentary consultation. We serve clients in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma.
