Motorcycle riders may be thrill-seekers, adrenaline chasers, and adventurers, but they’re also more safety-minded than they get credit for.
Still, riding a motorcycle is inherently dangerous — at least, it’s more dangerous than other forms of travel. The truth is that motorcycle riders are 29 times more likely to die than passengers of cars and light trucks. The National Safety Council calculates a motorcyclist’s lifetime odds of dying in a crash at 1 in 899, which is lower than one’s odds of dying in a pedestrian accident (1 in 543) or car accident (1 in 107).
If you’re thinking about picking up riding as a hobby, this may not be the figure you were looking for. But motorcycle riding can still be a worthwhile venture. This is especially true for those who are willing to invest in the proper safety gear and skills.
The Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Before diving into the best way to ride safely, it’s important to understand the most common ways that motorcycle accidents can occur.
You’ve probably seen a head-on collision. This is when two vehicles collide straight on. For motorcyclists, these types of collisions account for around half of all motorcycle accidents.
Of course, head-on collisions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to potential crash types.
Here are a few more:
- Left-hand turn collisions
- Passing collisions
- Lane splitting collisions
- Road hazard collisions
- Fixed object collisions
- Excessive speed collisions
Understanding the common conditions that can lead to an accident can help a rider stay alert and safe.
For a legal consultation call (713) 500-5000
How to Prevent a Motorcycle Accident
Around 5,000 motorcyclists die each year in the United States. This is a completely avoidable number. Fortunately, motorcycle safety is well within your leather-gloved reach. Below, we’ve broken down how bike riders and other motorists can keep the roads safe for everyone.
Tips for Riders
If you are just learning how to ride a motorcycle confidently, it may be a good idea to practice in a safe setting. You’ll want to get familiar with your bike’s responsiveness and how it handles before venturing out to a freeway or busy road.
It’s also smart to practice riding in varying conditions. Many parts of Texas don’t see a lot of snow, but rain and ice are always a risk.
Once you feel as though you can handle your bike confidently, there are a few other safety steps to take.
Start by checking these systems each time you go for a ride:
- Tire pressure and tread depth
- Fluid levels
- Signal indicators
- Headlights
- Brakes
If you know these bases are covered, you’ll be ready to ride. Just make sure to wear safety goggles, long pants, protective gloves, and a DOT-approved helmet.
Tips for Motorists
When you are not on your bike, you can still do your part to keep the roads safe for motorcycle riders that are out on the roads. Here are some of the ways that motorists can protect their two-wheeled counterparts:
- Avoid texting and driving
- Avoid drunk or drowsy driving
- Ask your passengers to keep an eye out for riders
- Give riders extra space and time, especially during inclement weather
- Check your blind spots
- After parking, check for upcoming riders before you open a door
- Drive slower through intersections
For more advice on how to protect motorcycle drivers, visit the Department of Transportation’s website. Their “Share the Road” campaign is an excellent safety resource.
Why You Should Call an Attorney After an Accident
If an accident does happen, don’t panic. Simply call a qualified Houston motorcycle accident attorney. That way, you can get the legal support and guidance you need.
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Contact the Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers For Help
For more information, contact the Houston brain injury law firm of Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers by calling (713) 500-5000.
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