Motorcycle enthusiasts love the freedom that riding affords them. For many, the thrill of the open road is simply unparalleled. However, riding a motorcycle can also inherently have increased dangers. From threats on the road to motorcycle malfunctions, bike riders have many things they need to consider for their safety.
Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable than those in cars for several reasons. While a car may be able to roll over an obstacle on the road with little problem, for instance, a motorcycle may skid or lose control if it comes in contact with the same obstacle. The size of a motorcycle versus a car increases the likelihood that they can be in an automobile driver’s blind spot and more easily struck. The riders themselves are naturally more likely to sustain an injury in an accident as well.
Preparing against Motorcycle Malfunctions
There are also some mechanical reasons which cause motorcycle accidents and mishaps, and these should be carefully considered by riders as well. Here are just a few items to add to your maintenance checklist to ensure against motorcycle malfunctions.
* Even the smallest crack or break in the motorcycle’s frame may be aggravated by the vibration of riding. Over time, this structural weakness can become an issue which may affect performance, especially when withstanding the impact of an accident.
* For a motorcycle rider to stay safe, he or she must be able to maintain their speed within the flow of traffic. Unexpectedly stalling when traffic is moving quickly may put the rider at risk of being hit when the vehicle slows, making engine integrity of utmost importance.
* As with any vehicle, a defect affecting wheels and tires can wreak havoc, either by producing a blowout, skid, or unstable situation. With only two wheels, the likelihood of a tire defect causing a major accident is higher than with cars or trucks.
* Motorcycle fires are generally caused by a manufacturer flaw when the gas tank was produced. Unfortunately, dangerous gas leaks are rarely detected before an incident and can cause injury or a deadly accident.
* While being unable to brake is dangerous while operating any vehicle, a high-speed crash due to a brake malfunction on a motorcycle is particularly serious due to the rider’s body not being protected by a vehicle frame. The inability to avoid a situation due to brake failure is a primary concern of motorcycle riders.
* While not one of the more frequent motorcycle malfunctions, improperly produced and installed handlebars can cause instability, and reduce the rider’s ability to properly steer without the bike wobbling.
Additional Motorcycle Safety Tips
Aside from motorcycle malfunctions, other common causes of accidents can be mitigated by staying alert.
* Be aware of your position in regard to cars. Do not assume they are turning or not turning, and stay out of their blind spot if at all possible.
* Slow down to take blind or unfamiliar turns, so as to avoid hitting an unseen patch of gravel or obstacle in the road.
* If traffic stops unexpectedly, pull up next to the stopped car in front of you so as to avoid being hit from behind by a distracted driver. Remember, what is a fender bender between two cars can be a serious accident for you. Alternatively, sit closer to the side of the lane and keep a sharp eye on cars approaching in your rearview mirror, in order to scoot out of the lane in they aren’t slowing down. If you end up in an accident you should contact your insurance as well as your lawyer. My friend found his insurance at Money Expert. They do some great deals! Worth a look!
If you do encounter an issue on the roads, whether caused by motorcycle malfunctions (equipment) or someone’s negligence, call a Sarasota or Tampa accident attorney right away to ascertain your rights.
Probinsky & Cole has assembled a team of knowledgeable and qualified attorneys dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve. Call our Sarasota or Brandon area offices today.
