Riding a motorcycle can be a liberating and adrenaline-pumping experience, however, it can also turn life-threatening in an instant. This summer while enjoying the beautiful and scenic New York State roadways, please drive safely and don’t become a motorcycle accident statistic.

Did you know that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to die in a crash than people in cars? Even scarier, eleven percent of all roadway accidents in the United States involve motorcycles. In 2012, 4,957 motorcyclists were killed and an additional 93,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents in the United States. Seven out of ten motorcycle accidents resulted in some level of injury. Common motorcycle accident injuries include head injuries, broken bones, whiplash, and road rash that ultimately could be fatal.

As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers here in Central NY, the partners at Brindisi, Murad, Brindisi & Pearlman want you to enjoy the ride and would like to share a few tips on how to make your experience safer and, hopefully, prevent a motorcycle accident today.

Top 5 Safety Tips That Will Help Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

1. ALWAYS ride with people who know how to ride and that you trust.

While it sounds like a no-brainer, unsafe riders could put your safety at risk. There is nothing more dangerous than riding with an intoxicated motorcyclist but there are also riders that may try to show off or do not know how to handle their bike. NEVER get on a motorcycle with someone who is impaired or inexperienced. This is the most essential safety tip and can save you from an accident.

2. ALWAYS stay in your comfort zone.

If others are riding faster than you feel comfortable, do not attempt to keep up with them. It is important to ride at your own pace. No one knows how much you can handle more than you. This includes not driving at night time when the visibility factor for a motorcycle decreases.

3. ALWAYS gear up.

As much as you want to, looking cool on your motorcycle is not the top priority. T-shirt, shorts, and flip flops are definitely not proper riding attire. While they are a step up from shorts, jeans do not provide the best coverage for road rash either. Leather or reinforced jackets, pants, and boots are your best bet and always, ALWAYS wear a helmet.

4. ALWAYS leave room for an escape route.

When coming up to a signal or a stop, stay in gear, and watch traffic coming up behind you. Leave room for an escape route if it is ever necessary.

5. ALWAYS watch the road and NEVER drive distracted.

Because you are already vulnerable to the elements, it is important to keep a watchful eye on the road and the happenings around you. Be vigilant for unstable road conditions and cautious in curves and railroad tracks. Be extra careful to not drive distracted and not to use your mobile device for talking, texting or GPS.

Before every ride on your motorcycle, make sure you inspect the following:

• Tire pressure

• Electrical system

• Leak checks

• Examine your helmet

Once you’re all clear, you are safe to ride!

Sometimes, a motorcycle accident is not your fault. Immediately after a motorcycle crash, it is important to ensure everyone is okay. Dial 911 and seek medical attention. Once the shock wears off and reality sets in, it may be time to consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in CNY. The People’s Lawyer is here for you. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. As motorcycle accident lawyers in Utica, NY and Syracuse, NY, we are ready to fight for motorcycle accident victims as well as any victims involved in traffic accidents across the communities we serve. Contact us for a free consultation today.

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Tags: Motorcycle Accident