Spring is one of the most enjoyable times of year for many here in Texas and across the nation. The warmer weather and brighter days can provide you with motivation to get outside and increase your activities. This can especially be true for motorcyclists who can be seen frequenting the roadways more often as the weather transitions out of winter into the new season.
Whether you ride your motorcycle for recreation or for transportation, you are probably fully aware of the potential safety hazards you can encounter either directly on or in close proximity to the roadways. From impaired and distracted motorists to wet pavement and suddenly changing weather conditions, there are many things for which you should always try to maintain a high level of alertness. These threats typically increase during the spring in conjunction with an increase in both motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Specific tips to help keep you safe
There are several different measures you can implement both before and while you are riding your motorcycle to help decrease the odds of being involved in an accident. Some of the most common of these include the following:
- Utilize all of your protective gear: Always wearing your helmet, gloves, long pants and boots can help reduce the severity of any injuries should an accident occur.
- Improve your defensive driving abilities: Consistently checking your blind spots, staying vigilant for pedestrians and even certain animals and wildlife in the roadways, and maintaining a safe amount of space between yourself and any other motor vehicles are all habits that can help keep you out of harm’s way.
- Obey all traffic laws: Always using your turn signals, following the speed limit and observing all traffic lights can help protect other drivers in your vicinity.
- Don’t neglect any inspections or routine maintenance: Keeping your motorcycle in as good of condition as possible can significantly lessen the chances of a sudden malfunction or breakdown while you are riding.
Following all of the above practices along with avoiding riding if at all possible when you are ill or taking any kind of medication or supplement that can cause drowsiness can help create a safe environment for both yourself and anyone in close proximity to you.
Unfortunately, there are still far too many instances when motorcyclists practicing safe riding habits suddenly become involved in an accident due to the negligent actions of another party. If you were a victim in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, you have the right to seek compensation by means of a personal injury lawsuit for many of your unfortunate expenses along with your pain and suffering.