Motorcycle Safety Tips - the Dos and Don'ts
Riding a motorcycle can be a wonderful way to enjoy the beautiful weather or unwind after a long day. Unfortunately, it can also be a dangerous past time and 80% of all motorcycle accidents result in injury or wrongful death. While these statistics are alarming, there are things you can do to keep yourself safe.
The single best way to prevent injuries while riding a motorcycle is to wear a helmet. Wearing a helmet actually prevents fatal injuries 37% better than not wearing one at all. Need more reasons? In some states, the failure to wear a helmet can reduce your damages claim. In a recent report, 1,829 motorcyclists are alive today because they chose to wear a helmet while riding!
Wearing a helmet, although obvious and helpful, is not the only way to stay safe on a motorcycle. Safety experts suggest that all motorcyclists take a safety course before hitting the open highway for the first time on a motorcycle. In fact, even seasoned veterans should refresh their knowledge of motorcycle safety from time to time.
Motorcycle Safety Dos and Don'ts:
DO obey all the traffic laws in your state and in your community
DO use defensive driving skills
DO use signals when changing lanes
DO check all mirrors before changing lanes or stopping
DO watch the weather before going out on your motorcycle to avoid dangerous conditions
DO use your headlights --- yes, even in the daytime
DO wear a helmet when driving
DO wear appropriate eye protection
DO wear protective clothing when driving
DO wear something reflective or bright during dusk and evening hours
DON'T tailgate
DON'T ride in between lanes of slowly moving or stopped traffic, Colorado law
DON'T ride in another vehicle's blind spot
DON'T assume other drivers are aware of your presence on the road
DON'T drink and drive
DON'T use drugs and drive your motorcycle --- even OTC or prescription medications
We Serve Clients Throughout Colorado in The Metro Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers are based in Aurora, Colorado but we also handle cases throughout the state of Colorado and in Wyoming and Utah. To learn more about your rights and the most effective way to present your damages claims, contact the top motorcycle personal injury lawyers at Western States Law, P.C. for a free consultation. You will always meet with an attorney, not a paralegal, “case manager,” or salesman. Home, evening, and weekend visits are available.