Safe Driving Tips For Motorcyclists
Michael Babboni
Motorcycle Accidents
Florida is one of the highest states in the US for motorcycle fatalities. In 2020, Florida saw 516 motorcycle fatalities, which is down a bit from the previous year’s 550. While a best-case scenario would be drivers on the road looking out for motorcyclists and practicing defensive driving, there is no way to control how other drivers may decide to take to the road. For this reason, it’s important for motorcyclists to keep in mind safety tips that can help them to have a safer experience while on the road. A few safe driving tips for motorcyclists in the St. Petersburg region of Florida are:• Keep yourself optimally visible – A motorcycle is much smaller than your average vehicle, and therefore it’s much trickier to see. A motorcycle can slip into a driver’s blind spot easily, and it may take longer to see a motorcycle coming from a roadway compared to a full-sized car. Motorcyclists can improve their visibility by keeping their lights on during the day and night, wearing brightly colored clothing, or wearing a brightly colored helmet. Motorcyclists should always be aware of their proximity to a car’s blind spot and drive defensively while nearby to other vehicles.
• Keep your motorcycle in the best possible condition – Tires should stay inflated, gas tank full, lights operational, and engine checked before going on a ride to ensure an unexpected problem won’t put you in danger. If a motorcycle runs out of gas or breaks down, this can leave the rider sitting in traffic or stuck on the side of the road, where they may not be seen in time by other drivers. Motorcycles with failing or worn tires might be difficult to control and susceptible to slipping during turns or while trying to brake.
• Keep careful at intersections – Intersections are particularly dangerous places for motorcycles. The most common fatal motorcycle accidents occur at intersections when motorcyclists aren’t seen in time or vehicles believe the motorcycle is preparing to give the right of way. When going through an intersection, motorcyclists should show their intention of going forward by looking straight ahead and maintaining a safe speed and distance. If necessary, a motorcyclist may wish to use a horn at an intersection if they believe they aren’t being seen by other vehicles.
• Protect yourself with appropriate riding gear – While riding with your hair free and in a T-shirt might feel exhilarating, that feeling of freedom isn’t always worth the consequences that could come along with it. A full coverage helmet, gloves and boots, and safety gear with padding can be a saving grace should the worst occur. While no motorcyclist wants to find themselves in an accident, an accident could happen at any time, and it’s the gear that can help them to walk away from it safely.
Recovering From A Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents are often devastating, leaving riders with significant injuries and long recovery times. In some instances, the accidents are fatal. Recovering from a motorcycle accident is not an insignificant experience. When a motorcycle accident occurs, it’s important to be able to focus fully on your accident recovery.
Motorcycle accident recovery often comes along with mounting medical bills, and riders are entitled to compensation to cover these expenses either through their insurance providers or negligent motorists in cases of severe accidents. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in the St. Petersburg area, and you’re looking for representation to help you to get the compensation you need, contact us at TheStPeteLawyer.com today.