Motorcycles are a fun way to get around, but they are also one of the most dangerous ways to travel. In fact, it is estimated that 44% of all motorcycle accidents in Illinois involve another vehicle on the road. Carlson Bier Associates are the lawyers that will help you if you’ve been in an accident. Our personal injury lawyer Lombard Illinois will evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action for you. Contact us at 312-622-2900 for a consultation.
Having said that, it’s important to realize that it is possible to reduce your risk of an accident by being aware of some basic rules and guidelines for riding motorcycles safely.
Reduce The Likelihood Of An Accident
Avoid riding in bad weather. If you live in a place where the weather is unpredictable, it’s not a good idea to go out and ride if there are storms or high winds. If you have to ride in bad weather, make sure that you have proper gear on and take extra safety precautions such as slowing down and making sure that other drivers can see you.
Avoid riding at night. Riding at night is dangerous because there isn’t enough light for cars to see you. It’s also harder for the rider since they can’t see as well either. The best thing to do would be avoid riding at night altogether if possible.
When visibility is reduced accidents can occur. If that happens, make sure to get medical attention and consult with a personal injury lawyer Lombard Illinois to help you get compensation.
Use Common Sense
Be aware of your surroundings. Motorcycles don’t have a lot of surface area to prevent accidents, so if you’re not paying attention to what’s going on around you, you may be putting yourself in danger.
Use a mirror and look over your shoulder. This is especially important when changing lanes or merging onto a highway. It can give you an advantage when you check for cars before turning onto an intersection.
Use hand signals consistently and when necessary. Use them often enough that other drivers know exactly what’s coming up next.
A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear you can wear when riding a motorcycle. Not only does it protect your head, but it will also reduce the risk of serious neck injury or death by up to 73%. In addition to wearing a helmet and protective clothing, other types of safety equipment include a jacket or vest, pants, and heavy duty boots.
Be Aware Of Illinois Motorcycle Laws
In Illinois, the motorcycle laws are similar to those of other states. You may already know about these laws but it’s a good idea to review them so you’re aware of what you need to do as a motorcyclist.
Here are some important things to know:
- Motorcycles must also have certain safety equipment: tail light, headlight and brake light (red), rearview mirror, horn or whistle (audible warning device), muffler system in working order, and tires that have adequate tread depth.
- Motorcyclists must follow all traffic laws, signs, and signals just like other drivers.
- Motorcyclist operators can’t ride while holding anything in their hands such as cell phones or drinks with lids on them; they must keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times while riding (if possible).
Ensure That You Are Always Visible
Wear reflective gear and use lights. The most important thing you can do to stay safe while riding your motorcycle is to make sure that cars see you.
Use turn signals when turning or changing lanes. It may seem obvious, but many accidents happen when riders fail to signal their turns correctly or at all. Make sure to always use your turn signals before making turns and changes in direction on the road, so other drivers know what your next move will be.
Our personal injury lawyer Lombard Illinois can help if you’ve been in a motorcycle accident
It’s important to remember that you can reduce your risk of a motorcycle accident by being aware of your surroundings and following the rules of the road. However, if an accident should occur, contact Carlson Bier Associates for a consultation. Our personal injury lawyer Lombard Illinois will help you pursue justice.
You can take steps to ensure that you have proper safety gear, maintain your bike, and avoid distracted driving. All of these things can help you feel confident in your ability to handle yourself on the road and prevent accidents from happening in the first place. It’s important to know your rights and responsibilities so you can protect yourself as much as possible.