Defensive Motorcycle Riding
Defensive driving is a skill every motorist must have when operating a vehicle to remain safe. Mastering this skill is even more critical for motorcycle riders in California. Here are some defensive driving tactics for motorcycle riders of all skill levels to become better defensive.
Tip #1: Perform Routine Maintenace on Your Bike
Aside from extending the life of your motorcycle, routine maintenance can also save your life. If you blow a tire in a car, you can quickly maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road. If you blow a tire on your bike, the chances of you safely coming to a stop are slim. Before each use, you must perform an inspection of your motorcycle. This includes checking the tire pressure and wear, checking fluid levels, checking all the lights, and much more.
Tip #2: Plan Route of Travel
If you are heading out on a vacation or a long ride with friends, the best way to stay safe is to plan your course of travel. You don’t want to venture onto unknown roads when riding a motorcycle. When you plan a route, it doesn’t mean you have to make a dry run in your car. It means you should research the roads, conditions, and turns you will need to make using a map ahead of time. Even though a GPS system can feed audio into your helmet, knowing where you need to turn during the trip before heading out can prevent you from crashing your bike and making an abrupt turn.
Tip #3: Educate Yourself
Good defensive drivers continue to educate themselves on the changing or different traffic laws in areas where they travel. If you have never driven in California before and are headed here for vacation, familiarize yourself with the state’s traffic laws and speed limits before your trip.
Tip #4: Always Look Around
Looking around regularly can help keep you from getting into a motorcycle accident. The last thing you need is a fractured skull. Novice motorcycle riders tend to focus on one spot in front of them when riding. Don’t let this happen to you. Use your mirrors to your advantage and check them frequently. Check your peripherals every so often and look as far ahead as possible to anticipate changes in traffic flow. This tip can go a long way in preventing traumatic injuries.
Tip #5: Protective Gear Works
There’s a reason that motorcycle companies manufacture protective gear; it works. Whether it’s a helmet, gloves, a face shield, leather clothing, boots, or a reflective vest, all of these items can help keep you safe when on your motorcycle. The more protective gear you wear, the less likely it is that you will endure an extended stay in a hospital due to injuries suffered in a tragic motorcycle accident.
Tip #6: Drive Confidently
Even though you might be a new motorcycle driver, it doesn’t mean you can’t drive confidently. Drivers who are indecisive or hesitant are unsafe. Hesitant drivers tend to make others around them react suddenly because of their last-minute maneuvers. Driving like this on a motorcycle can be deadly. Learn to drive confidently and assertively to put yourself in a safe position.
Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney. With more than three decades of experience practicing law, I know what it takes to represent those injured in motorcycle accidents so they get the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Sacramento or surrounding communities, call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice. I take my cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay at the end of the successful outcome of your case. It is free to call and talk to me. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, please call and ask for me, Ed Smith.
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Visit our website for more information about motorcycle accidents: www.autoaccident.com.
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