How to Prevent Common Motorcycle Accidents

A  motorbike ride is undoubtedly full of thrill and adventure. However, it can quickly turn into a fatal nightmare if you are not careful. Motorcycle accidents are more common than we realize and costs precious lives all around the globe. The statistics of these accidents are worrisome because most of them are pretty preventable, if appropriate precautionary measures are taken beforehand. 

The good news is that many motorcycles have various inbuilt mechanisms that help the rider stay safe, like smooth handling, strong brakes, great tires, and obstruction-free vision. As a motorcyclist, you should be aware and vigilant enough to use these tools during times of need. In this article, we will talk about few situations that may pose a risk of an accident and can be prevented as well. 

The Unexpected Sharp Left

While you may not be expecting such a sudden and sharp turn, a car driver may not realize that a bike is just riding alongside and takes a sharp and sudden left. These are one of the most common causes of accidents on the road when drivers either do not see the motorcyclist or have not been particularly vigilant about the motorbikes. 

Although it is a significant risk and you cannot anticipate it, it is fairly preventable. You have to stay vigilant on the road and be attentive towards any signs which indicates that a car driver may attempt to take a turn in front of your bike. There would be subtle indicators, and if you pay attention, you will develop a better eye for these signs over time. For instance, there may be a gap in the traffic near the parking space, or a particular car may be about to turn towards an intersection after waiting for some time. In all such situations, the best course of action for you would be to slow down and be prepared to take action quickly (if needed). 

The ‘Not-Your-Fault’ Accident

Sometimes, it is just not in your hands at all. There would be an instance when you took a natural stop near a traffic signal and a car right behind you hits your bike at quite a high speed. It’s not a pretty sight, nor a pleasant thought. 

If you have suffered damage, even the slightest, it is highly recommended that you take legal counsel. Find a local lawyer,  if you are in San Antonio, you should look for a quality motorcycle accident attorney in San Antonio and make sure that you don’t compromise on such fender benders which are pretty common and unfortunate accidents. However, you can still at least try to avoid these, and it requires staying on your toes when you are riding the bike. 

It is a good idea to stay on the side of a lane, instead of a center, when you stop. Flashing the brake light consistently may also help alert the car driver behind you. You should also keep your right hand on the throttle and keep your bike in gear in case you catch a car that’s moving at an uncomfortable pace towards you. 

The Patchy Road to Doom

It happens with the finest riders on a fine day, while enjoying a smooth ride, without warning, a patchy gravel spot may hit the bike. As soon as the front tire of your motorcycle hits the patch, you’re going to be in trouble. Keeping the speed of the bike under control and paying attention to your surroundings is the best prevention measure that should be implemented in order to avoid hitting the rough patch and getting in trouble. You should be vigilant and pay particular attention to unfamiliar areas. Also, stay extra cautious while taking turns, and it’s a good idea to take a wide turn. 

The Change of Lane Without a Warning

Often, when everything is going just fine, and you are enjoying a calm motorcycle ride, a car from another lane may head straight into your bike. It sounds outrageously crazy, right? But it does happen, and there is something you can try to prevent such an accident. You need to understand that motorcycles are not very easy to locate, especially when the visibility is poor. As a motorbike rider, you should be aware of the possible blind spots for the cars and try to avoid them. Even if your bike is in the visibility range of the car, the driver may not be paying attention, and it may cost you significantly. So, stay on the lookout for any sign of lane change and try to avoid an unpleasant situation. 

Although it seems quite overwhelming to stay on guard at all times when you are on the road, you should always make it a point to never compromise on your safety. Being a motorcycle rider has many perks but there is also a certain level of risk associated with it. It is strongly advisable to be cautious and pay extra attention to your surroundings while enjoying your bike ride to the fullest.