With the temperature (finally) dipping below 100 degrees in Phoenix, it’s prime riding season here in Arizona.
And while we know that bumper stickers that say, “Start Seeing Motorcycles” and “Look Twice, Save a Life” are designed to remind car drivers on their responsibility for sharing the road safely with you, we also know that not everyone does what they’re told.
What can you do to reduce your risk for being in a dangerous motorcycle accident and a victim of another careless cager?
Motorcycle safety starts with you as the rider. And as anyone who rides will understand, just because you’re following the rules doesn’t mean you’re going to be safe on the road.
That’s why we’ve put together these reminders and tips, to help keep you safe on the road and from having to call Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer about a motorcycle injury lawsuit.
Here are our tips for sharing the road safely:
- What to Wear. While helmets may not be required by Arizona law, reflective material on helmets and jackets increases visibility and safety of motorcyclists and their passengers. Remember, a helmet can save your life.
- Play nice. Remember that car drivers may be as scared of you as you are of them. No driver wants to be the person who accidentally hits a motorcyclist. The best thing to do is to think of the driving lane as three equal sections with the safest and most visible section being on the left side. You are most likely to be seen by car drivers while in this position. It’s not illegal to be in any part of the lane but it’s always best to act on the side of caution. Don’t try to share a lane by placing your motorcycle next to a car; it’s likely to lead to an accident.
- Blind Spots. When you are in the left part of the lane, you can still go unseen by drivers. Even in the best conditions with the most alert drivers, accidents happen because cars have blind spots. Pay close attention to the vehicles on the road; assume that they can’t see you.
- Safe Stopping Distance. Allow 3-4 seconds between a car and your motorcycle, giving each vehicle enough time to stop without incident.
- Road Conditions. Cars are able to pass or drive over potholes, railroad crossings, gravel, and water on the road more easily than motorcycles. By allowing a safe following distance, you can keep yourself safe from unforeseen debris or road and weather conditions.
- Look then Turn. Do what your parents taught you about crossing a street especially when you’re making a left turn. Don’t assume drivers are paying attention to traffic flow and signals. Look both ways. Then look again before turning. And don’t forget to check mirrors.
- Signal All Intentions. Whether you’re changing lanes on the freeway or a side street, be sure to signal so drivers and pedestrians know where you’re heading.
Road safety is a shared responsibility. While car drivers are required pay attention, the best person to look out for you and your safety is you.
And of course, we all know that you can do everything right and still get into an accident.
If you have been in a motorcycle accident (or know someone who has), it’s important to get immediate expert legal assistance with your motorcycle accident injury case.
Silkman Law Firm Injury & Accident Lawyer works aggressively on your motorcycle accident case to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us or call today at 602-535-5899 for a free review of your case.
