The staff and attorneys at McDivitt Law Firm have seen first-hand the kind of devastation that can come from a motorcycle accident. In addition to educating automobile drivers to look twice for motorcyclists, and leaving plenty of space for those riding a motorcycle, we want to promote safe riding in Colorado and throughout the nation. See our motorcycle riding tips below, and please share with any other motorcycle riders that you know.
Motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a number of factors and are many times outside of the control of the motorcyclist. Other times, the behavior of the motorcyclist comes into play. Such accidents can be a result of the following:
- defective motorcycle parts
- distracted or impaired driving
- driver inexperience
- loss of control
- other motorists
- road conditions
- weather conditions
It is possible for both experienced and inexperienced motorcyclists to get in auto accidents. No matter your level of motorcycle knowledge or riding experience, you should always protect yourself by taking the appropriate steps to stay safe on the road.
Motorcycle riding tips
Ensure that your next motorcycle ride is safe, whether you are the driver or the passenger. These are motorcycle safety tips for group riding, motorcycle safety tips for new riders and tips for experienced riders.
Test the lights, brakes and turn signals
Make sure your motorcycle is just as ready as you are for heading out on the road. Make sure that all headlights and taillights, rear and front brakes and turn signals are functioning.
Check the oil and fuel levelsCheck the oil and fuel levels
Make sure to check your motorcycle fluid levels prior to riding every week.
Position the mirrors correctly
Adjust the mirrors so that you can see clearly behind you on each side!
Lube the chain and check the cables
Cleaning and lubricating the bike chain will help it last longer. Lube the entire chain and remove any excess lubricant. The cables that run from the throttle to the engine should also not be frayed or worn.
Brush up on your skills
In order to ride a motorcycle in Colorado, you must have an endorsement on your driver’s license that proves you have completed the requirements to ride a motorcycle safely. If it has been a while since your certification, it can’t hurt to take another course on how to ride a motorcycle safely, or even watching a motorcycle safety tips video, to sharpen your riding skills.
Pick a high-quality helmet
A motorcyclist not wearing a helmet is 40 percent more likely to die of a head injury than one who wears a helmet. Pick a high-quality helmet that fits well, and if it doesn’t have a face shield, pair it up with goggles or glasses with safety lenses.
Motorcycle safety gear list
Use safety as your excuse to shell out for that leather jacket, or to purchase a motorcycle safety vest. Get the pants while you’re at it. Wear durable non-slip gloves, and invest in boots or sneakers that cover your ankles. This list is motorcycle safety gear for hot weather, as well as cold weather. It is important to protect your body. If you have a child as a passenger on your motorcycle, make sure they are in a motorcycle car seat.
Always assume another driver can’t see you
Drive with your headlights on and signal well ahead of time! Be cautious of turning vehicles and vehicles changing lanes. To be extra cautious, purchase motorcycle reflective safety gear to ensure that other vehicles can see you.
Be cautious at intersections
11 percent of all roadway accidents that occur in the United States involve motorcycles. About 46 percent of all motorcycle crashes occur at intersections and on average, three U.S. motorcyclists are killed every day as a result of multi-vehicle crashes at these intersections. Motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to experience a deadly accident on the road than those in passenger cars. Be extra careful at intersections!
Follow local traffic laws
Comply with the local traffic laws – stop at red lights, don’t speed, don’t drive when tired or under the influence, etc. Motorcycles follow the same rules as other automobiles, but need to be extra cautious on the road.
Check the weather and traffic before departure
It is important to know how to ride safely in conditions such as wet roads, high winds, uneven surfaces and heavy traffic. Be prepared for bad weather and traffic!
Motorcycle safety tips for car drivers
Car and truck drivers can also improve motorcycle safety by always assuming that there is a motorcyclist on each side of and behind their vehicle. Take that extra look over your shoulder when changing lanes and be sure to use your blinker!