Summer is here which means motorcycle season is in full swing. Motorcycling can be extremely fun and can deliver many exciting memories. The beautiful scenery and weather here in Jacksonville provide motorcyclists with ideal conditions while riding. However, Safe motorcycling is great source of entertainment, unfortunately, accidents do occur.
In fact, one out of every 10 fatal motor vehicle accidents involves a motorcycle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2011 an average of 89 people died each day in motorcycle accidents – an average of one every 16 minutes and approximately 82,000 motorists suffered some type of injury due to a motorcycle crash.
Motorcycle accident attorneys in Jacksonville and their staff at Terrell • Hogan want to do everything they can to ensure you always return home safely. Here are some tips to help make your biking experience both fun and safe.
Bike safety begins before you ride. Before hitting the road, check your tires. Check your lights, horn, turn signals, and mirrors to make sure they are functioning properly.
One of the biggest issues when riding a motorcycle is other drivers’ inability to see you. More motorcycle accidents happen at night than at any other time. To help increase your visibility, wear bright clothes. Always use your turn signals and make sure that your headlights are on, even in the daytime. Never put yourself behind a large truck or in a vehicle’s blind spot. Always keep at least a four second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. At night this distance should be increased.
Motorcycle riding is often a family affair. Husbands and wives, fathers and sons frequently ride together. When riding with a passenger, make sure that passenger is mature enough to handle the responsibilities. Instruct your passenger to limit moving and talking and never exceed the weight limits specified in the manual.
Lastly, when riding a motorcycle, proper attire is a must. No matter how experienced of a rider you are, always wear a helmet. Have something to cover your eyes at all times, whether it is a helmet with a shield or a pair of goggles. Eye protection is very important. Wear tough and thick jackets and pants made out of nylon, denim or leather. Protect your hands and feet by using gloves and wear high ankle boots with rubber soles.
When riding in high traffic areas it is especially vital that these guidelines are followed. In the unfortunate event that you do find yourself in a motorcycle accident and in need of a Jacksonville motorcycle accident attorney, Terrell • Hogan is here to help. You may call (904) 632-2424. Have fun and be safe.