Ways to Avoid a Motorcycle Crash | Kisling, Nestico & Redick
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KNR Legal
Date posted
 
August 6, 2020
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As a motorcycle rider you know the thrill the open road brings. You also understand that joy is balanced by a healthy respect for safety. It’s essential that motorcyclists try to avoid crashes by adopting defensive driving tactics and keeping an eye out for negligent drivers.

Especially dangerous are distracted motorists. In Ohio, 52 deaths resulted from 13,876 distracted driving-related crashes in 2018, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation. Many of these accidents involved motorcycles.

The Ohio motorcycle accident lawyers at Kisling, Nestico & Redick have worked with many riders who unfortunately struck by distracted drivers. From their experiences we know how quickly a ride can turn disastrous. With our help, riders can recover the compensation they deserve for their injuries. If you or a loved one are hurt in a motorcycle crash, call KNR for a free, no-risk consultation at 1-800-HURT-NOW.

However, as long-time personal injury lawyers, we know it is far better to avoid motorcycle crashes altogether.

Here’s some helpful ways how:

Motorcycle Safety Tips

There are several things that motorcycle enthusiasts can do to stay safe while riding. The Road Guardians, a non-profit organization dedicated to motorcycle safety, recommend:

Maintain Your Ride

There is little room for error when riding a motorcycle. You must make sure your bike is maintained properly. Before every ride check the fluids, oils, belts, brakes, and tire pressure. It’s also wise to do a post-ride check too.

Wear the Right Protective Gear

Unlike other motor vehicles, there is no protective barrier between a motorcycle rider and the elements. You must operate the bike in the proper gear and make sure all passengers are similarly outfitted. Helmets, googles, boots, and gloves are a must, along with an outfit of leather or denim that covers your body.

Look Around/Watch for Distracted Drivers

Always use your mirrors and practice looking ahead while driving. Be especially mindful of distracted drivers who may be using smart phones, texting, or even watching videos! By being vigilant of speeders, reckless driving, and inconsideration, you can better avoid crashes.

Distracted and careless drivers often create risks for riders by:

  • Turning into oncoming traffic
  • Pulling out onto a busy road
  • Failing to properly stop at lights or stop sign
  • Swerving in and out of traffic
  • Not looking when merging to use exits
  • Speeding around corners
  • Carelessly driving in parking lots

Know Your Route

Unlike in a car where you can set up your smart phone for hands free directions, it is a bit more difficult when riding a motorcycle. Consider reviewing your route before you begin riding.

Stay Educated

It is your responsibility to know the laws that are specific to motorcycle use. In Ohio, for example, you can ride two across in a lane, but you cannot “split lanes” by riding between two lanes. Make sure you know the helmet laws as well. (Although it is a best practice to always wear one.)

Be Confident

You must ride in such a way to make it safe for yourself and passenger. This may mean speeding up or slowing down to keep a “bubble” around you from cars or to get through intersections safely.

But Never Aggressive

Swerving back and forth into different lanes, not using a signal, or impatiently accelerating/decelerating because of traffic increases the likelihood of an accident and gives riders a bad name. Don’t do it.

If There’s Been a Motorcycle Accident

Sometimes despite taking every precaution possible as a rider, motorcycle accidents still happen. If you are injured in an accident or a loved one is killed in a motorcycle crash, we can help. Our offices are conveniently located throughout Ohio, including in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. As one of the largest personal injury firms in the state, we have the experience to make sure your rights are respected and you get all the compensation you need.

Call KNR today at 1-800-HURT-NOW for a free consultation. We don’t earn a fee unless you recover.