Motorcycle Awareness Month
Motorcycles can be the most exhilarating yet life-threatening vehicles that are used daily. While they are fun, even the best drivers need to be aware that dire consequences do exist from improper use of this heavy, potentially deadly weapon. Our office has witnessed too many casualties involving motorcycles. In fact, more than 80% of motorcycle crashes result in serious injury or death. The tips below should help you navigate the roads freely and safely!
1- It’s not you, it’s other drivers! Imagine you are driving your car down the long, never-ending, traffic ridden highway, coffee in one hand, steering wheel in the other, with the occasional glance down at your mobile device. Then suddenly, a biker comes rushing past you, squeezing in between your and another car’s lane. While you know exactly what you’re doing, the poor, unsuspecting car drivers may not! One ounce of being startled and jerking the wheel could be your ultimate defeat. Don’t let car drivers get the best of your awesome riding skills!
2- Don’t wear a used helmet. Helmets that have been in crashes are not nearly as effective as new helmets. Also, look for the DOT sticker, which guarantees the helmet meets safety standards required by law. Spend the money to protect your noggin, it will thank you later.
3- Use headlights day and night. Take every measure to ensure that you are seen.
4- Take extra precaution when riding with a passenger. Riding with a passenger takes considerably more skill. Balancing the new weight on a motorcycle takes practice, not only from you but your passenger too. You now also must depend on your passenger to shift their weight with yours. Take it from Attorney Hickman; she was thrown off the back of a motorcycle backing out of a parking spot after a car hit the bike!
5- Know the rules of the road as it pertains to motorcyclists. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) is dedicated to you, the motorcyclist. They have plenty of resources available such as driving courses, safety tips, videos, fact sheets, etc.
If you have any questions about your rights as a motorcyclist, don’t hesitate to contact Hickman Law Office at info@hickmanlawoffice.com or 703.748.3001. Remember, we’ve been there before and can help you avoid traumatic events on motorcycles.
