4 Motorcycle Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life – Advice from an Omaha Injury Attorney
Riding a motorcycle offers an indescribable thrill, but part of that rush is the ever-present danger. Motorcycles offer little protection in accidents, which is one reason why more than 4,000 bikers lost their lives in 2013, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
In addition to physical pain and a daunting recovery, survivors of motorbike wrecks often face overwhelming debt due to medical bills and time off work. Fortunately, there are steps that riders can take to minimize their risk of crashing:
- Learn to brake correctly;
- Overtake safely;
- Reduce your speed cautiously;
- And practice speed control.
If you were injured in a motorcycle wreck that another driver caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Omaha can evaluate your case, compile evidence, investigate liability, structure your claim, and help you avoid mistakes.
Our attorneys have more than 45 years of combined legal experience. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit http://accident.usattorneys.com/nebraska/ to learn more about injury lawsuits.
Here are four motorcycle safety tips that could save your life:
- Learn to Brake Correctly
It is imperative that you learn proper braking technique before you hit the road. According to Ride Apart, your brakes are the most valuable safety features at your disposal. However, this is only true if you use them correctly. Braking with the wrong technique can cause you to lose control and crash.
You should practice braking in an empty parking lot. Start by gently tapping your brakes while riding slowly. You need to learn how the bike responds. When the front tire starts tightening or the back one lifting from the ground, you can incrementally start braking at faster speeds.
- Overtake Safely
Overtaking on a motorcycle is not the same as overtaking in a car. It is more dangerous for bikers because they are small and can disappear in drivers’ blind spots. Look ahead of the leading vehicle before you overtake to make sure you can complete the maneuver safely.
- Reduce Your Speed Cautiously
You should never hit the brakes abruptly on a motorcycle. This can cause you to lose control of the bike, and the driver behind you may not react in time and rear-end your motorcycle.
Always keep your finger on the brake lever; this will quicken your response so you have more time to brake when necessary. This is particularly important in congested traffic.
- Practice Speed Control
Practicing speed control will help other motorists predict your actions. Sudden speed changes will force them to recalculate their own plans and react to your changes. This may not happen in time. Rather, be a consistent rider by matching your speed to the flow of traffic.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha injury attorney can help you navigate an often-unpredictable legal system.
Our attorneys have litigated more than 100 jury trials, and if we do not win, then you do not pay attorneys’ fees. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
