Riders are drawn to motorcycles for numerous reasons including increased speed, better maneuverability and a sense of freedom. Unfortunately, what motorcycles gain in excitement they lose in safety features. Riders often find themselves suffering serious injuries after a motor vehicle collision.
No matter your age or experience level, it is important to remember three tips that can potentially reduce your exposure to injuries such as brain damage, paralysis or amputation.
- Dress appropriately: This means what you wear from head to toe. Not only should riders wear heavy gear that could protect them from road rash, but the gear should also be visible. Clothing splashed with reflective stripes or fluorescent coloring could increase the chance of other motorists seeing you and avoiding collisions.
- Avoid distractions: While there might be fewer distractions available to a motorcycle rider, it is still wise to stay completely focused on the road around you by avoiding phone calls and other activities while on the road.
- Assume you’re invisible: The biggest single safety takeaway is that riders should drive defensively. They should assume no other driver can see them when making turns, changing lanes or merging into traffic. By watching other drivers, the rider can often identify dangerous driving decisions in others and avoid an accident.
Due to the lack of safety features and bodily protection, motorcycle riders will oven suffer catastrophic injuries in a collision with stationary objects or other vehicles. Traumatic brain injuries, brain damage, spinal cord damage, paralysis, road rash or multiple fractures can lead to costly medical treatment and lengthy physical therapy. Do not hesitate to seek monetary compensation following your motorcycle accident.
