Motorcycle Safety Tips - How To Share The Road
Motorcycle accident attorney Scott Elliot Smith knows that riding motorcycles is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the open road in the Columbus area, especially in the spring and summer. That said, it can also be dangerous. Because bikers don't have the same protection as people in enclosed vehicles, they can be seriously injured in crashes. And many motorists don't know how to appropriately share the road, increasing the risk of motorcycle accidents. That's when a motorcycle accident attorney can help.
The injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident can take months or even years to recover from. Some injuries leave victims with permanent disabilities. The medical expenses for treatment can become overwhelming very quickly, and victims may lose income because they can't work. Many people aren't sure what to do next.
At the Smith Law Office, we've seen too many bikers seriously injured or killed in serious crashes. Here are some ways motorists can stay safe while driving around bikers:
- Maintain a safe following distance. Often, motorcycle riders need to slow down or stop in order to adjust to changing road conditions. Moreover, bikes have a much smaller stopping distance than cars. Tailgating a biker can easily lead to a devastating rear-end accident.
- Yield when making left turns. The majority of motorcycle crashes happen when a car making a left turn fails to yield to an oncoming bike. Check and check again for oncoming motorcycles before making a left turn.
- Leave plenty of space. Running over a pothole or other obstacles often isn't a big deal for a car or truck, but it can be deadly for motorcyclists. Bikers have to move left and right to avoid objects in the road, and often to stay out of blind spots as well. If you're driving near a motorcycle, do your best to stay out of a biker's way.
- Avoid distracted driving. Motorcycles are smaller than passenger cars. Often, drivers who cause motorcycle accidents claim that they couldn't see the motorcycle. Put away the smartphone or other electronic devices and keep your eyes on the road.
- Be aware in adverse conditions. Bad weather, darkness and other poor driving conditions are harder on motorcyclists than on motorists. Keep your eyes peeled and be especially alert when driving in those conditions.
- Watch out in good weather. Remember, motorcycle riding is largely a warm-weather activity. During the spring and summer, expect to see plenty of bikers on the roads. Be appropriately vigilant and share the road.
Both motorists and motorcyclists have a responsibility to share the road. But when crashes happen, it's usually the biker who gets hurt. Remember, there is no such thing as a fender-bender as far as bikers are concerned. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident, we strongly encourage you to contact us today.
During a free consultation, attorney Scott Elliot Smith will listen to the details of your accident. Then he will explain your legal options so you can make an informed decision about how to proceed. He will also answer any questions you have. There's no obligation. We look forward to hearing from you.
