Motorcycle Safety

Every motorcyclist must do their best to abide by safety standards in order to protect themself from being in a horrifying accident. Motorcycle accident in St.Louis fatalities occur at a rate of 24.97 incidences for every 100 million vehicle miles traveled. Despite the risk of an accident, only 65% of motorcyclists wear a helmet. Motorcyclists are at an increased risk of a catastrophic accident due to the lack of protection a motorcycle offers. It is especially important for motorcycle riders to do their best to engage in safety practices to avoid motorcycle accidents. 

If you get into a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s neglectful actions, you can hold them responsible for your injuries. Learn how much you can receive in your settlement reward from an attorney. Contact Hipskind & Mcaninch Attorneys now to receive help and an initial estimate during your free consultation. 

Death rates for motorcycle riders have increased by 20% over the last 10 years. Motorcycle riders are more likely to experience a fatal crash involving alcohol impairment. However, about 73% of fatal motorcycle accidents did not involve alcohol impairment. Most motorcyclist fatalities occur on urban roads, making up 60% of these accidents. Around 50% of motorcycle accidents happen during daylight conditions and 78% in good weather. About 58% of motorcyclists were wearing a helmet when they experienced a fatal accident. Motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle crash and four times more likely to get injured. 

Before you begin driving, consider incorporating motorcycle safety practices to help protect you from life-threatening accidents. You can incorporate safety practices by doing the following: 

Stay Visible

Try to remain outside of other drivers’ blind spots. Give cars, trucks, and other vehicles room when you are riding your motorcycle. This allows them to see you and prevent an accident from occurring.

Practice Riding Your Motorcycle 

The more time you spend driving your motorcycle, the less likely you are to get into an accident. Inexperienced riders are more likely to get into a motorcycle accident. It is best to practice riding your motorcycle frequently before taking extended trips on the road.

Maintain Your Motorcycle 

Before riding your motorcycle, inspect it to check for any issues. Frequently maintain your motorcycle and have it inspected by a mechanic if you encounter any problems. This will prevent you from being in an accident due to malfunctioning equipment. 

Wear The Correct Helmet And Equipment 

Choose a helmet that is durable and fits your head securely. Helmets cannot prevent all injuries, but can drastically reduce your chances of dying. The style, shape, and material of the helmet are very important. You should select a helmet style that will keep you from being injured if you are thrown off your bike. Also, wear the right equipment for your motorcycle ride. You should wear long-sleeved clothes and thick materials such as leather. Padded gear is also available for motorcycle riders.

Pay Attention To Traffic Laws

Be sure to pay attention to stop signs, traffic lights, yield signs, and other traffic devices. This will  protect you from making a fatal error at an intersection or when merging between traffic lanes. 

Do Not Operate A Motorcycle While Intoxicated

Alcohol, drugs, and even prescription medicine are known to greatly inhibit a driver’s ability to operate an automobile. 

Check The Weather

Inclement weather, such as heavy rain, fog, icy surfaces, and other conditions can increase the likelihood of a motorcycle accident. Wait until weather conditions improve before you drive your motorcycle. 

Pay Attention To Road Hazards

Remain alert so you can avoid obstacles and hazards on the road. Potholes, debris, wild animals, people, and other unexpected road obstacles can get in the way. 

You can speak to a personal injury lawyer in St.Louis and learn more about motorcycle safety. To find out if you are at fault for your motorcycle accident, speak to us today. Call Hipskind & Mcaninch Attorneys now for a free consultation.