Gibbons Law Firm: National Motorcycle Ride Day: 8 Important Safety Tips

If you've ever ridden on a motorcycle, you know that there is nothing quite like the thrill of the open road. Motorcyclists relish the feeling of the wind in their hair and the sense of freedom that can only be found on a bike. For many people, motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation - they're a hobby, a community, a culture, and a lifestyle. Unfortunately, under certain circumstances, they can also be very dangerous.

Saturday, October 8th is National Motorcycle Ride Day. In preparation for this upcoming observance, our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here to help you stay safe on the roads with these important motorcycle safety tips. Whether you will be on a bike or sharing the road with one, there are things you can do to help keep our community safe.

Safety Tips For Motorcyclists

1. Wear A Helmet.
Not only is it a law in Missouri, it can potentially save your life. According to Consumer Reports, riders without helmets are 40% more likely to suffer a fatal head injury in a crash. They are also three times more likely to suffer brain injuries than riders who wear helmets.

2. Watch The Forecast.
Poor weather make driving conditions more dangerous for everyone, but this is especially true for motorcyclists. Roads become slippery when wet, and it can be hard to keep your bike under control. Other drivers may also have more difficulty controlling their vehicles, so you should leave extra space between you and other drivers.

3. Wear The Right Clothes.
There aren't any laws requiring motorcycle riders to wear specific attire, but the clothes you wear can play a significant role in your safety. Ideally, you should wear long pants and long sleeves that can protect you from bugs, dirt, wind chill, etc. If you are breaking out the bike, leave the shorts and sandals at home.

4. Stay Alert.

Driving a motorcycle presents two primary dangers: your smaller size makes it harder for other drivers to see you, and there is nothing to protect you (except your helmet and your clothes) if you do get in an accident. For these reasons, it is especially imperative that you stay extra alert and focused while riding your motorcycle.

Safety Tips For Other Drivers

5. Leave Extra Space Between Your Vehicle And The Motorcyclist.
Because they are smaller and more lightweight, motorcycles can speed up, slow down, and change direction more quickly than other vehicles. A crash with a motorcycle can be fatal to the cyclist, so it is crucial that you allow yourself extra space and time to react to their movements.

6. Be Extra Cautious When Passing.
You are legally allowed to pass a motorcycle just as you would pass any other vehicle, but it is wise to exercise extra caution when doing so. Signal to give the motorcyclist notice of your intention to pass, and make sure you are several car lengths ahead of the motorcyclist before you move back into your lane. Be extra cautious during windy weather, as you may both be at risk for being blown in and out of your lanes.

7. Double-Check Your Blind Spots.
Their smaller size can cause motorcycles to stay in your blind spot longer, which makes it harder for them to be seen in your mirrors. Before turning or changing lanes, check your blind spot twice to make sure you aren't overlooking someone.

8. Handle Intersections With Care.
Accidents occur more frequently in intersections than anywhere else. No matter what kind of vehicle you're driving, approach all intersections with caution. Obey all traffic signs and check your surroundings multiple times. This extra caution may mean the difference between life and death for you or another driver.

Gibbons Law Firm Is Here For You

Our Lake of the Ozarks legal team wishes you safe travels on all of your journeys. Unfortunately, accidents can (and do) happen even with the best intentions. If you find yourself facing steep medical bills and expensive damages as a result of an accident you did not cause, you may have the grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Contact our personal injury attorney in Osage Beach MO for more information.