Motorcycle Safety By Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Chicago

Many people enjoy motorcycles as an alternative to cars. For these people, motorcycles represent a sense of freedom. In American culture, motorcycles have become an iconic way of ensuring that you look cool while traveling. And in the Midwest, the summer season means more people out on motorcycles.  With an increase number in motorist and motorcyclist on the roads in the summer, it is important to remember to ride safe.  Here are some tips to help you remain safe on the road.

Pick the Right Bike for You

Make sure that it’s easy for you to get on and off of the motorcycle. When you’re sitting on the motorcycle, you should be able to have both feet flat on the floor. Handlebars and controls should be within your reach.

Get Antilock Brakes

Data quoted by Consumer Reports shows that motorcycles with antilock brakes were thirty seven percent less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than bikes without this type of brakes. When a rider needs to make a sudden stop, brakes that lock up hamper the riders steering control. Antilock brakes are standard on many top of the line models and add only a few hundred dollars to the price of more basic bikes. Also, you may be able to get an insurance discount if your motorcycle has this type of brakes.

Wear Protective Gear

You should wear gear that will protect you from wind chill, debris, and injuries, in case you should slide off your bike, according to Consumer Reports. Make sure to wear a leather or reinforced jacket, gloves, pants, and footwear that goes above the ankle, regardless of the season. Make sure to wear bright colors, especially on your helmet and jacket. If you choose to wear darker colors, wear a reflective jacket so that you can increase your visibility, Yahoo suggests.

 Wear a Helmet

Make sure to wear a helmet. Riders without a helmet are forty percent more likely to suffer a fatal head injury in a crash and three times more likely to suffer brain injuries. Helmets deteriorate over time, so you should replace your helmet every five years, or sooner, if it has been damaged or has been in a crash.

Be Aware of Other Vehicles

In crashes involving a car and a motorcycle, the drivers of the car were at fault sixty percent of the time. You should watch for cars suddenly changing lanes or pulling out from side streets. Also, leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you so you have enough time to stop or avoid obstacles on the road.

Be Prepared for Road Hazards

A motorcycle does not make as much contact with the pavement as a car does. Therefore, sand, wet leaves, or pebbles can cause a motorcycle to slide unexpectedly, which could result in an accident. Bumps and potholes pose much more of a danger to a motorcyclist than to a motorist. If you can’t avoid any of these potential hazards, slow down as much as possible before coming across them; try to avoid steering as much as possible in these situations. Slippery conditions can also be dangerous. Rain hampers visibility and reduces your tires’ grip on the road. If you can, avoid riding your motorcycle right after it starts raining because the water can cause oil residue to rise to the top of the road.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident call our office immediately for a free consultation.  We can explain your rights and help you ascertain whether you have available recovery options that can be pursued.  Our phone number is 312.422.0500 and it is FREE to call and speak directly with one of our experienced attorneys.