By getting the right gear, a little bit of practice, and following safe riding principles, you can reduce your risk of a motorcycle accident or injury significantly. You may not be able to avoid all accidents altogether, so make sure you also keep the card of a good motorcycle accident lawyer in San Francisco on hand. To help reduce the chances that you’ll need that card, put the following six steps into action:
Buy the Right Bike for Your Experience Level
Your bike should fit your current comfort level and experience as a rider. Even though something like a Suzuki Hayabusa capable of reaching 200 mph is no doubt attractive, it may not be the right bike for you. With too much bike underneath you, you raise your risk of making dangerous maneuvers while also increasing the chances that your bike will “get away from you” and cause you to lose control.
Instead of jumping ahead to beastly bikes like these, start with a vehicle that has a manageable center of gravity and a solid mid-level acceleration that is easy to keep control over.
Get a Bike With the Latest Safety Features
Safety features normally used in cars are finding their way into motorcycles, and the benefits are immediately noticeable.
One of the most important of these is an ABS (anti-lock brakes) system. Anti-lock brakes prevent your wheel from locking up during extreme braking. Many riders lose control when they have to brake suddenly, often in response to a car driver putting them in a dangerous situation. ABS prevents these terrifying slides while shortening your stopping distance overall.
The IIHS reports that riders with ABS file accident claims 20 percent less frequently and that they have a rate of fatal crashes 31 percent lower than motorcycles not equipped with ABS.
Traction control systems supply another helpful modern feature. These advanced systems got their start in motorsports, but now even mid-level bikes can boast onboard computers that improve control, acceleration and cornering in a wide variety of conditions.
Get the Right Gear
First of all, every rider needs a DOT-certified helmet per California motorcycle law. Riding boots are also a must in order to protect your ankles and feet in the event of an accident.
Optional gear worth investing in includes slide-resistant outerwear, such as pants, jackets, gloves and more. Lots of gear designed just for motorcycle riders includes hidden armor that can absorb the impact of a fall and reduce your risk of serious injury. This gear can be subtle or extremely flashy depending on your tastes.
Practice Defensive Driving, and Stay Vigilant of Hazards
Defensive driving basically amounts to driving under the assumption that someone or something will cause you to get in a wreck unless you act accordingly.
Techniques for defensive driving include anticipating mistakes other drivers may make, like running a red light, and giving them enough room accordingly. It also involves constantly sweeping your surroundings for possible hazards that can range from loose gravel on the road to pickup trucks with unsecured cargo.
Consider Taking an Advanced Safety Course
Not every technique for safe riding is obvious. Advanced motorcycle safety and riding courses can bring your skills to the next level to teach you these techniques. These courses give you the tools to potentially save your own life in a dangerous incident. You may even get a discount on your insurance after taking one!
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in San Francisco If You Get Injured
Sometimes, even the safest driving can result in an accident. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident where you feel someone else may have been at fault, you have a strong incentive to exercise your right to legal representation.
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco can represent your interests to insurers and other parties while strengthening your injury claim. You could be entitled to medical expense reimbursement as well as lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress and more.
So start practicing safe driving, and if you have been injured do not hesitate to contact me for a free consultation.