Motorcycle safety is particularly important as winter turns to spring and riding season fires up. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in a collision than those in passenger vehicles. Let’s elevate awareness about motorcycle safety and reduce the chances of serious injury or fatal motorcycle collisions, like the one that occurred last fall in north Spokane.
Proper safety gear helps reduce injuries and might help avoid a crash entirely. Wearing a helmet is the most important factor in protecting riders from serious head injuries. Other gear, like a sturdy jacket, pants, boots and gloves help protect riders in case of a crash or if they have to put their bike down. Many of these items specifically made for motorcycle riders have reflective surfaces that help make riders more visible to others on the roads.
Being knowledgeable about motorcycles and pre-ride safety checks help improve travel safety. Washington State requires a motorcycle endorsement, which includes written and skills tests. Ensuring your motorcycle is ready includes checking your tire pressure and tread depth along with brakes, headlights and signals. It’s also important to get comfortable with your bike by riding it in a controlled area like an open parking lot before riding on busy city streets.
Car and truck drivers can help keep motorcyclists safe, too. Keep an eye out for motorcycles and giving them plenty of space. Motorcycles are small and they are harder to see in blind spots. Motorcycles can slow themselves by downshifting, which means their brakes lights might not come on. Maintaining extra following distance behind motorcycles reduces the risk of rear-ending them.
Even highly experienced riders following all best practices can find themselves in a motorcycle collision through no fault of their own. If you or someone you care about has been seriously injured in a motorcycle collision, then call Cooney Law Offices today. We can help!