4 Tips and Techniques to Protect Yourself from Motorcycle Injury

 Posted on May 20, 2020 in Personal Injury Attorney

As warmer temperatures arrive, and the summer season approaches, more opportunity for motorcycle riding can mean an increased risk of motorcycle accidents with injuries, especially during a time when the current pandemic crisis is affecting our roadways. Reckless driving, particularly speeding, has been on the rise, making Illinois roadways even more dangerous. However, there are a number of defensive driving techniques that can help you avoid potential accidents and injuries while out and about in the coming months. In many cases, the negligent actions of other drivers can cause a motorcycle crash.  

Driving Defensively as a Motorcyclist

While not every motorcycle collision can be prevented, driving defensively can at the very least be a valuable tool in lessening the impact and intensity of a collision, should you ever have the unfortunate experience of being involved in one. Next time you ride, practice the following tips to better protect yourself and others on the road:

1. Remember that drivers may not see you - As a motorcyclist, you may already be aware that your biggest disadvantage as a rider is your lack of visibility. Many drivers on the roadway may not even notice you, especially if they are distracted or impaired. Therefore, you must make an effort to err on the side of caution. This is especially the case at intersections and when attempting to change lanes. Watch out for last-second red-light runners when the light turns green. Give yourself a few extra seconds before hitting the gas and crossing the intersection.

2. Pay attention to lane placement - Motorcyclists should always ride along a car’s tire tracks and avoid driving in oil slicks in the middle of the lane. Additionally, it is safer to ride on the left side of the lane in normal traffic flow. Be sure to stay out of other vehicles' blind spots at all times. All of these behaviors combined will increase your visibility as you navigate the highway.

3. Use the “target fixation” concept - If you are new to riding or you do not ride very often, it is important to remember that your bike will naturally go wherever you look. It is recommended that you practice the concept known as target fixation while riding, which means keeping your eyes fixed on where you want to go instead of where you do not want to go. You can do this by keeping your eyes level with the horizon and looking ahead. Even when entering curves with a hard lean, this concept applies, and it will help increase your safety as you encounter other vehicles.

4. Carefully negotiate curves - It is important to learn how to drive through curves safely. Remember to enter a turn slowly and lean, which will aid you in shifting your weight back and stabilizing your bike. When you are in a heavy lean, avoid using the front brake. Press on the throttle as you are coming out of the curve. The old saying “in slow and out fast” is a tried and true technique that will help keep you safe. 

Contact a Palatine Personal Injury Attorney

Even when practicing defensive riding practices, you cannot control the actions of other motorists. When other drivers act negligently, you may become a victim of a motorcycle collision, and this can cause you to experience serious injuries that can require extensive medical treatment and result in temporary or permanent disability. In this situation, it is crucial to speak to a qualified Arlington Heights motorcycle accident lawyer right away. Our competent, dedicated team at Newland & Newland LLP will work hard to fight for your rights and help pursue any compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries. Call us today at 847-797-8000 to schedule your free consultation.

Source:

https://www.isp.state.il.us/traffic/motorcyclesafety.cfm