Motorcycle Safety Truckee

It’s that time of year when the mornings are cooler and the deer are frolicking. Life does not stop for the changing of the seasons. This is a reminder to watch out for deer while riding a motorcycle or driving a car.

Motorcycle vs Deer Accidents

Fall is officially here. This means shorter days, cooler weather and leaves changing to beautiful tones of orange, brown, yellow and crimson red. It also means that deer are mating and migrating. Bucks are out in numbers and roaming around this time of season. For hunters, that’s great news and this is your favorite season. However, if you’re a motorcyclist, it can pose significant danger to you. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety data states that you have a three-and-a-half greater chance of colliding with a deer in the month of November than you have in the month of August. Keep in mind that deer collision rates vary by state.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

Deer accidents pose a risk to those who drive cars and trucks, as well as motorcyclists. I have composed a list of safety tips to help keep you safe on your motorcycle this deer season.

Always wear your helmet while you are out riding. It is not required in all states but it is required in the State of California. There are many options for choosing a helmet. You want to look for a snug and comfortable fit. Make sure your helmet has a DOT sticker. The DOT sticker means that the particular helmet you have chosen meets the strict safety standards of the United States Department of Transportation.

Make sure to spread out if you are riding in a group. It is always important to have safe distances between you and your riding buddies, but this is even more important in the later months of the year when deer are more common. If one rider goes down and you are all spread out, that rider does not propose such a great risk of taking someone else down with him or her.

If you spot one deer, assume there are more coming. Deer tend to travel in groups of 2 or more. If you see one, lower your speed and be extra cautious. When traveling at night, keep an eye open for the reflection of your lights into the deer’s eyes.

In the early mornings and evenings, be on the alert! Deer tend to travel the most during the dawn and dusk hours. Early evening is when most deer-related accidents occur for both motorcycles and motor vehicles. If the sun is low and the sky is dim, keep a look out for deer!

A bike that is equipped with anti-lock brakes is a great option. The National Highway Safety Administration states a bike with Anti-lock brakes can help prevent your wheels from locking up during a hard break which could result in a severe fall.

If a collision is unavoidable, do not swerve. It’s important for your motorcycle to stay as stable as possible. Apply your brakes safely to avoid collision.

Riding safely is important all year long. Keeping a watchful eye on the road and being alert and prepared for a mishap can improve the safety of your own life and others who share the road with you.

Truckee Motorcycle Accident & Personal Injury Lawyer

I’m Ed Smith, a Truckee Motorcycle Accident Attorney. If you have been seriously injured in a Truckee car crash or motorcycle collision, please give me a call as soon as possible. I can be reached at (530) 392-9400 for free and friendly advice. I can also be contacted toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice.

I have been helping Truckee residents with their personal injury and wrongful death cases since 1982.

Motorcycle Safety Truckee

Motorcycle Safety Truckee

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