Motorcycle Accident Safety Tips
Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys at the Land Legal Group provide skilled legal representation for clients who have been injured while riding on our California city streets, highways, and rural roads.
We know that serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries, and tragically, wrongful death, are common results of a passenger vehicle colliding with a motorcycle, and we strive to provide riders with the resources they need to remain safe as they ride.
To follow are motorcycle accident safety tips for our California riders to avoid collisions with cars and trucks in Los Angeles County and throughout the state.
Motorcycle Safety Tips Begin with the Rider and Their Motorcycle
The most important part of motorcycle rider safety is choosing a motorcycle that fits your unique weight, height, and ability.
Riding a motorcycle that is too big, too heavy, or too powerful can lead to losing control in traffic, which can lead to serious injuries.
Wear Riding Gear That Fits You and Your Riding Requirements
There are thousands of motorcycle gear options available for riders of all kinds, but it is important to focus on the type of riding gear that is right for you — and only you.
Each motorcyclist is unique, and so are their protective needs.
Look for protective gear that allows you to operate your motorcycle safely, including the Department of Transportation compliant helmets, which are required by law for all riders and their passengers.
Other recommended protective gear can include, but is not limited to:
- Boots
- Eye Protection
- Gloves
- Jackets
- Pants
Inspect and Maintain the Motorcycle Before Each Ride
Motorcycle maintenance is paramount to ride safety. Any small defect caused by normal wear and tear can cause a Los Angeles motorcycle accident without notice.
Before each ride, motorcyclists should inspect each segment of their bikes to ensure they are functioning properly.
These components can include:
- Brakes
- Clutch
- Engine
- Headlamps
- Mirrors
- Running lights
- Tires
- Throttle
- Turn signals
If you spot a defect in any of the motorcycle’s parts, do not ride the motorcycle until it is fixed. Proper maintenance will help ensure rider safety, at least where the motorcycle’s operation is concerned.
Stay Alert & Aware: Negligent Drivers Are Everywhere
Every driver, no matter what type of vehicle they are driving, is responsible for paying attention to nothing but the road while they are operating a vehicle.
Unfortunately, that is not the reality.
When motorcyclists add defensive driving tactics to their ride, it can help save their lives.
Those precautionary measures can include:
- Adding reflective tape to the motorcycle
- Observing traffic patterns before exiting parking lots or garages
- Staying out of other driver’s blind spots
- Using turn signals when merging or changing lanes
- Watching for turning vehicles
- Wearing bright-colored clothing while riding
Los Angeles Motorcyclists Must Obey the Speed Limit
Speeding makes it more difficult to safely maneuver turns and sharp curves and can prevent riders from making quick stops without being thrown from the motorcycle.
Maintaining proper speeds can help riders avoid dangerous circumstances that can lead to serious injuries.
Never Ride Between Active Los Angeles Traffic and Parked Cars
Drivers and passengers inside parked cars are often guilty of opening doors without checking their surroundings first. This can lead to a motorcyclist colliding with a car door and being ejected from the bike.
Never Ride Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Drugs and alcohol use are the leading causes of motorcycle accidents throughout the United States. Motorcyclists should never use drugs or alcohol before riding. Not only is it illegal, but it is also potentially deadly.
Motorcycle Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
Even when motorcyclists follow each rule of the road, wear safety gear, inspect their bikes before each ride, and avoid drugs and alcohol while riding, they must still contend with negligent drivers who share the roadways.
Car and truck drivers should always thoroughly check their surroundings for motorcyclists to avoid accidents that could cause severe injuries or even death to vulnerable riders.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Los Angeles Today
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident or have tragically lost a loved one while they were riding, contact our accomplished Los Angeles personal injury attorneys at the Land Legal Group to schedule a free initial consultation by calling 310-552-3501. Our motorcycle accident lawyers are available to discuss your case and provide a strategic approach to producing financial results for your unique circumstances. Contact us now to learn more about our process.