It’s no secret that motorcycles offer better gas mileage than passenger vehicles, and they’re certainly more thrilling to drive. However, motorcyclists take a risk every time they hit the road. Even the most cautious riders can fall victim to drunk, distracted and negligent drivers.
Despite these dangers, the Insurance Information Institute estimates that 8.4 million motorcyclists were on the road in 2014. Many people simply cannot resist the rush and convenience of riding a motorcycle, and if you’re one of them, it is essential that you take steps to avoid accidents and injuries. These five tips are particularly important for inexperienced riders:
- Take an advanced riding course;
- Buy a helmet with a certification from the Department of Transportation or Snell Memorial Foundation;
- Avoid speeding;
- Do not transport passengers; and
- Buy the appropriate safety gear.
If you were injured or lost a family member in a motorcycle crash, turn to Morris Bart, LTD. A personal-injury lawyer in Gulfport will assess your case, gather evidence and help you recover the maximum compensation. Our attorneys have been representing the injured for more than 30 years.
Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free initial consultation. Let’s take a closer look at five essential tips for inexperienced motorcycle riders:
Take an Advanced Riding Course
Advanced riding courses teach motorcyclists how to identify and avoid dangerous scenarios, maintain their vehicles and regain control of their bikes in dangerous situations. These classes are helpful for riders of all skill levels. You can learn about advanced riding courses in Gulfport by clicking here.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Buy a Helmet with a Certification from the Department of Transportation or Snell Memorial Foundation
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that helmets are 37 percent effective in preventing fatalities. However, not every helmet offers the same level of protection. Riders should look for helmets that have been certified by the Department of Transportation or Snell Memorial Foundation.
These stickers indicate that the helmet meets strict safety requirements. You should never purchase a used helmet. It is likely that a used helmet was damaged in a previous accident, and the certification sticker may have been placed there by the seller.
Avoid Speeding
Maybe it’s the lack of accident experience, or maybe it’s the unfamiliar adrenaline rush, but young motorcycle riders are prone to speeding. According to the NHTSA, 34 percent of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents in 2013 were speeding.
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Do Not Transport Passengers
Carrying a passenger on your bike will affect how it handles, so inexperienced riders should avoid transporting passengers. If you do decide to carry a passenger, be sure to explain basic motorcycle passenger etiquette.
Buy the Appropriate Safety Gear
Even with the appropriate safety gear, a motorcycle accident is likely to end with injuries. However, riders who take the proper precautions are less likely to suffer serious injuries or die in accidents.
Be sure to invest in a riding jacket, pair of riding boots and riding gloves. Unfortunately, no matter how responsible you are on the road, nobody can control the actions of other drivers. If you were injured by a negligent motorist in Mississippi, contact Morris Bart, LTD.
An accident attorney in Gulfport will help you avoid mistakes during the claims process such as unknowingly admitting fault, making recorded statements or accepting a low settlement. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
