Motorcyclists often face more dangers on the road due to the fact that motorcycles don’t offer the same protection as other types of motorized vehicles. If you use your motorcycle regularly for transportation or just enjoy going out for the occasional ride, you should be aware of the dangers you might encounter so that you can try to take extra precautions to avoid accidents.
Negligent Drivers
Drivers are sometimes more negligent about motorcyclists than they are of drivers of other vehicles. Given the more compact size of the motorcycle, drivers aren’t always able to see these vehicles as clearly and often forget to be on the lookout for them when driving. A driver may have more trouble seeing you when trying to change lanes and could sideswipe you if you’re riding next to their vehicle. Drivers may also have trouble seeing you when they make a turn or back up, which can put you at further risk for accidents.
Rough Roads
Any rough or uneven roads could be more difficult for you to ride across on a motorcycle, and you may even lose control of your bike and end up in an accident when you’re traveling on one of these roads. Potholes and crumbling pavement may cause you to fall off your bike and suffer serious bodily harm. Loose gravel and other debris on the road can put you in further danger. If you believe that a negligent road design made riding conditions unsafe for you and caused your accident, a local attorney like Frank Penney Injury Lawyers or another firm can work with you to get you compensation for any injuries or damages to your motorcycle.
Animal Encounters
When you least expect it, an animal could cross your path on the road and cause a collision. When you’re on a motorcycle, you don’t have the same protection as you would in a car, and this can result in major injuries and damage to your bike. You might also be chased by dogs when you’re riding at lower speeds through residential neighborhoods, and you may suffer bodily harm if they catch up to you and bite you.
Hazardous Weather
Hazardous weather can be dangerous for any driver, but motorcyclists are often especially vulnerable in certain weather conditions. Heavy rainstorms can create slick roadways that might make your motorcycle skid and topple over or collide with another vehicle or object. Icy roads are also dangerous for motorcycles and should be avoided whenever possible. If you’re riding in excessive heat on a hot day, you might feel more tired or frustrated, which could cloud your judgment and increase your chances of getting into an accident.
Taking to the open road on a motorcycle can be a liberating experience, but you shouldn’t forget about the factors that could make an accident more likely. By using your head and knowing when not to ride, you’ll have a better chance of staying out of harm’s way.
This article is from Brooke Chaplan, a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most of her time hiking, biking, and gardening. For more information contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.
