by Tim O’Hare
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If you’re involved in an accident while riding a motorcycle, chances are, you will be injured. Studies show that as many as 98 percent of motorcycle riders involved in accidents are injured — half of those injuries are serious or critical.
In many cases, motorcyclists are self-taught, or taught to ride by family or friends. Like many automobile accidents, the motorcyclists involved in accidents also have little driving experience. Proper training is most critical in reducing your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident that could lead to a serious injury or even death. Consider enrolling in a skill-building class to train you as a motorcyclist. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a well-known non-profit organization that trains more than 400,000 riders each year.
In addition to proper training, here are five tips to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident:
- Make yourself visible. The majority of motorcycle accidents occur when other motorists cannot see the motorcyclist. As a motorcycle driver, make every effort to be visible to other motorists. Wear reflective helmets and clothing to increase visibility at night. Remember to signal your intent before changing lanes or turning.
- Be cautious when riding in bad road conditions or on undivided highways. The more you know about the route you plan to take, the more you will be aware of upcoming road conditions, such as pot holes or road construction, which may affect your driving ability. Also, extra caution on undivided highways is necessary, as you have decreased protection between yourself and oncoming traffic.
- Observe speed limits. No matter what you may think, motorcycles aren’t just for joyriding. Riding at excessive speeds increases your odds of colliding with other vehicles and displaces the weight and alignment of your bike.
- Don’t drive drunk. The same laws apply to motorcyclists as other motorists. Do not drive when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Wear your helmet. Motorcyclists are already more vulnerable to serious injury or death in an accident. Wearing a helmet is as important as wearing your seatbelt when driving or riding in a car. Proper use of a helmet can prevent senseless injury or death in an accident.
If you have been seriously injured or lost a family member in a motorcycle accident, contact the experienced legal team at The Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, the Dallas personal injury attorney who has been riding motorcycles for most of his adult life. Hiring a lawyer who also rides to handle your motorcycle case is the right choice.
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972-960-0000 or Toll-Free 888-960-0020
