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Villarreal & Begum Last Updated Date: June 3rd, 2021

Hazards to Watch For When On a Motorcycle

motorcycle

It’s no secret that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car. One reason is that motorcycles are less visible. Their small size makes it easy for them to hide in the blind spots of drivers. Many times, careless drivers could change lanes into motorcyclists when they aren’t fully aware of their surroundings. Another reason that motorcyclists experience higher risks of accidents is that road hazards become more dangerous. While a bump in the road could be unnoticeable for a truck driver, the same bump could potentially throw the rider of a motorcycle off their bike.

If you are a motorcyclist, you should be aware of some of the major hazards you could face. For example, unstable or slippery surfaces can cause hydroplaning or cause losing traction to be more likely. The fact that you are on a two-wheeled vehicle makes ice or oil-covered roads so much more dangerous. Rough roads can also pose a significant risk. Unless you are on a sportbike, loose gravel can pose a serious risk. Potholes and cracks also can throw a rider off balance. If you can’t avoid these surfaces, be sure to take extra care. Before riding, check your air pressure, tread depth and weather.

When it comes to train tracks, try to cross the tracks at 90-degree angles. Be sure to conserve traction by maintaining a steady throttle. Slow down, and increase speed as you cross. This will lighten the front end of your bike to give you better control of steering.  One other issue to keep in mind is debris on the road. Normally, cars can drive over trash or other small objects with ease. However, being on a motorcycle you don’t have that luxury. Try and avoid the debris if possible. If you can’t avoid it, push down on the handlebars and rise a few inches off your seat. This puts pressure on the pegs and essentially makes your legs act as shock absorbers.

A general rule of thumb for any vehicle driver is to avoid obstacles and putting extra space in between you and other drivers. This can give you the extra room you need if you need to come to a sudden stop, and more room to maneuver in the case of an emergency.

Motorcycle Accident Claims

If you have been in a motorcycle accident, your first priority is to get better. The last thing on your mind should be fighting the insurance companies to get the money you deserve. Unfortunately, many victims find themselves in that exact situation. Greedy insurance companies will try to take advantage of your current state and use that to give you less than you deserve. Don’t let yourself be victimized twice. Call a personal injury attorney. A San Antonio personal injury attorney will be able to fight on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve, while you focus on your recovery.