How New Motorcycle Riders Can Reduce Accident Risks
New motorcycle riders are common in California, which isn’t surprising since there are more than 800,000 bikers registered in the state. While motorists are at fault in some collisions, new motorcycle riders cause a high percentage of these accidents. In this article, we will be exploring how negligence, lack of experience, or other problems associated with new bikers can contribute to motorcycle crashes.
Motorcycle Risks
All motorcycle riders realize that they are more vulnerable on the road than those who are driving motor vehicles or big trucks. Their bikes are smaller, less stable, and offer little protection against a larger vehicle. However, there are ways that new riders can improve their chances of not being in motorcycle crashes by observing the following:
- Avoid cornering too fast: By using visual clues and watching speed, a motorcyclist can help avoid going around a corner too fast. If you find yourself in this position, trust the bike and go easy on the controls.
- Be conspicuous: Motorists often say they never saw the rider after an accident with a motorcyclist. Wearing bright colors during the day, and using bright lights and reflective clothing at night can help keep new motorcycle riders safe.
- Practice countersteering: This simple maneuver that kids usually learn when riding bicycles is the same one that can help you avoid an accident. Although veteran riders use countersteering as an evasive maneuver, newbies should practice performing this maneuver safely.
- Remember that having a passenger changes the dynamics: Although new motorcycle riders might be tempted to take a passenger along, this is a bad idea until you have practiced a lot.
- Always wear an approved helmet: While some might be tempted to buy an older helmet from a friend to save money, this is a bad idea. Helmets must be approved by the government, which has a list of standards to look for. In addition, any passenger must also wear a helmet.
- Keep your gas tank full: Running out of gas is no fun and dangerous when it occurs in traffic. Many motorcycles do not have a gas gauge, so this makes it important to ensure you have enough to get to your destination safely.
- Don’t drink or do drugs and ride: Riding while intoxicated is illegal and will make it more likely that you will be involved in an accident. It’s that simple.
Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident
Many accidents to new motorcycle riders happen because of other negligent motorists. The injured rider has rights too and can claim fair compensation for those injuries with the help of a seasoned attorney. The lawyer can negotiate for you with the insurance company. If it isn’t possible to obtain the compensation you need and deserve, the case can be taken to court. Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis. This means you pay nothing unless the case is won.
Elk Grove Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Elk Grove motorcycle accident lawyer. When you are injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may claim financial compensation. Call me at (916) 694-0002 or at (800) 404-5400 for my free and friendly advice. If you prefer to connect with me online, use the contact form.
Since 1982, I’ve helped Elk Grove residents get the financial compensation they need and deserve for their accident injuries. Whether it’s any type of car accident, traumatic injuries, or a wrongful death, help is just a phone call away.
I’m honored to belong to the following organizations:
- Million Dollar Forum: An advocate’s forum for trial attorneys who have won in excess of $1 million for a client.
- National Association of Distinguished Counsel: Established to recognize lawyers who have the highest standards of excellence in their practice.
I invite you to look at my client and peer reviews, along with a synopsis of cases my law firm has handled in the past at:
Photo Attribution: https://www.pexels.com/photo/bike-biker-drive-driver-581295/
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