Motorcycle sales are on the rise. With more Americans giving into whims or life-long dreams of owning a motorcycle, unfortunately serious accidents are also on the up and up. Let’s take a look at some of the facts: “Over 4,000 people die in motorcycle accidents each year,” and “Motorcycle accident statistics show that motorcyclists are 37 times more likely to die in an accident each year,” according to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and MotorcycleAccident.org. Motorcyclists can significantly decrease the likelihood of fatal or serious crashes by knowing what behaviors to avoid. Never:
Test A Bike’s Limits
“Most motorcycles can lean to 30-something degrees, [cover] one mile in seconds, and brake far faster than the average car,” according to YourMotorcycle.com. And that’s probably the last time you should think about it. About 3 million Americans are grievously injured in car crashes every year, and many of them involve speeding and/or reckless motorcyclists.
Ride A Motorcycle With A Thick Layer Of Grime
It is not uncommon for bikers to turn up at auto repair shops with motorcycles markedly damaged from the snow. Leaving a bike parked in a snow bank for a few days to a week can result in the buildup of corrosive salt. The moisture from the snow and corrosive rock salt can damage a bike’s finish — and, in some cases, cause performance problems.
Assume Other Drivers See You
Unfortunately, a disturbing number of motorcyclists tend to drive like they “own the road.” Instead of taking actions that further sully bikers’ reputations, avoid risky behaviors and practice defense driving. In other words, just because you can swerve in and out of lanes and small spaces in a slim motorcycle doesn’t mean you should. Careful driving will keep you safe, without any need to pay fees for court and motorcycle accident attorneys.
Every year, personal injury law firms see a great deal of personal injury lawsuits, auto accident settlements, and motorcycle accident attorneys. Don’t be the cause of motorcycle accidents. Drive carefully, and maintain motorcycles responsibly.