Possibly the most common cause of motorcycle accidents is a motorist making a left turn and failing to see an oncoming motorcycle. While it should be easy avoid this type of accident they account for about 25% of all motorcycle accidents. The motorcyclist can prepare for this situation by monitoring intersections as they approach them. Keeping a lookout for cars that may not be looking out for you and may not be able to see you due to poor visibility, blind spots, trees or light posts. Anticipating the actions of other vehicles and being prepared to slow down, stop, or swerve if you have reason to believe they aren’t paying close attention to you is a critical skill for you as a motorcycle rider.
Gravel, potholes, and oil slicks tend to exist on even the most maintained roads and for a motorcyclist these things can spell disaster, severe injury and even a fatal accident. Having great tires and exceptional skill as a rider helps but you are still wise to avoid these spots and be trained for how to react should you find yourself in the middle of one of these hazards. If you’re moving too fast and you hit loose gravel or an oil slick on a turn there’s a chance you could spin out and suffer the consequences. Being aware these hazards exist and staying attentive can help you react properly and slow down in questionable conditions.
Expecting cars to cut you off may save your life! It’s happened to you plenty of times… A car merges into your lane going slower than you and you’re suddenly faced with an emergency situation which could lead to a collision. While the other driver should take into account your speed before getting into your lane you may instead get angry and throw out a few gestures to share your upset. Instead, slow down and move to the side of the road where you feel the most safe. If they merge from the left you may want to move to the right and vice versa. Eliminate any chance of rear ending them if they decide to slow down further or stop. Once you have that handled, keep an eye out for any other moves they make.
Slippery roads and poor visibility are always a challenge when you are on a motorcycle. While the rain may not dramatically affect your ability to steer or control your bike it will impact how the bike handles the road and the weather may affect whether cars can see you or not. Make sure to have your lights on and drive the speed limit or slower if you find yourself riding in the rain. Defensive riding means being aware of your surroundings and that cars may not be able to see you. See them and act and react accordingly.
We represent people who are injured because of the careless and reckless acts of others. At the end of the day your case can only be settled one time and you need to know all of the facts beforehand. The reason that insurance companies have paid our clients in excess of $130,000,000.00 is that we get the facts and are not intimidated at the prospect of going to trial when they refuse to follow the law. We help with serious issues that require serious representation. We are the Law Offices of Guenard & Bozarth. We have over 80 years of experience in our plaintiff’s only law firm. Call GB Legal 24/7/365 at 888-809-1075 or visit www.gblegal.com We Can Help!
