Ten Tips For Motorcycle Driving in Heavy Traffic

The word "attorney" simply means "legal representative". It is essential that you’re represented by an actual motorcycle accident attorney. Qualified lawyers hold degrees from jurisprudence schools and are licensed by their State Bar Association. Legally, you are allowed to name anyone you like to serve as your motorcycle accident attorney – even yourself – but it’s best to engage an accredited licensed and qualified motorcycle accident lawyer in order to be assured you will get just compensation. Personal injury lawyers are highly trained in the intricacies of the law and techniques of debate – so your claim will have the best possible chance of winning.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident you should contact a certified  motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible – especially prior to signing any document presented to you by an insurance company. A good personal injury attorney will make sure that your rights are protected under the law and that you receive the compensation to which you are entitled.

Unfortunately over the last 30 plus years, the world in general views motorcycle riders as being foolhardy, and while this may be true of some riders, it’s does not represent the majority of bike riders. Statistics show that the driver of an automobile was at fault in motorcycle accidents two thirds of the time. This prejudiced perception is the biggest reason for calling an attorney immediately.

Motorcycle injury attorneys are highly knowledgeable when it comes to the area of the law known as torts, which is a body of law covering personal injury. A qualified lawyer will help assure that you receive your just compensation for medical expenses over and above your insurance coverage if you have insurance, your lost wages due to your injuries, any expenses incurred in the rehabilitation process, as well as compensation for the damage to your motorcycle and the pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident.

As always it is best to prevent accidents before they happen be pro-active in your own defense. Here are ten tips to help you get started.

1. Be Prepared
In traffic, don’t put yourself at risk fumbling for the brake lever or pedal. Keep your finger on the brake lever and your right toe close to the rear brake pedal. So if someone does the unexpected, you are ready and more importantly – safe. While in traffic, stay in a lower gear, so you have power at your disposal if necessary. This gives you more options instead of just using the brakes when something unexpected happens.  Choice is always good.  

2. Pay Attention To Other Drivers
You can learn to anticipate sudden moves by watching the head movements of drivers. It is a fact that most drivers won’t make erratic left or right turns without first moving their heads in the direction they plan to turn.

3. Be Noticed
Make sure drivers and pedestrians can see you, even from a distance. Ride with your high beam on during the day and wear brightly colored gear, especially your helmet and jacket.

4. Use Your Mirrors And Turn To Look
A bike’s mirrors can save your life, but they do have blind spots even if they’re adjusted properly. In traffic, always check your rear view with a glance over your shoulder. Doing this simple step will ensure that you are safe and nothing is in your blind-spot. Get in the habit – be safe.

5. Anticipate Drivers Using Offramps
Drivers who decide to exit at the last minute kill plenty of riders each year. The simple rule, then, is to never position yourself between a vehicle and an offramp. Passing on the right is bad idea at the best of times and for motorcycles it can be deadly.

6. Watch For Vehicles Turning Left Without Signaling
When approaching an oncoming car that’s stopped and about to turn left, be ready. Make sure your lights are on so the oncoming driver can see you but be prepared to brake, swerve out of the way or even accelerate.

7. Traffic Slowing? Stay To The Side.
In stop and go traffic, stay to one side of the car in front of you. This will increase your options if needed. You can avoid the back end of the vehicle in front of you if you keep your options open by staying to the side

8. Make Sure Your Signal Lights Turn Off After A Turn

Your blinking signal might tell drivers waiting to pull into the road or turning left in front of you that you’re about to turn when you aren’t. So get in the habit of checking the switch a few times each minute.

9. Use Larger Vehicles
Let larger vehicles stand between you and on coming traffic when negotiating intersections. If a vehicle is coming toward you from the left or right and goes through the light,  the larger vehicle will withstand the crash far better than you. Equally, don’t jump the gun as soon as the light turns green. Statistics show more accidents happen from drivers hitting the gas fast as soon as the light changes, take your time and let the big guy take the heat.

10. Pay Attention To The Condition Of The Road
Watch for oil or fuel spills. It looks shiny like a mirage. Also beware of loose gravel and/or sand, which is sometimes more difficult to see, if there is construction – slow down – road crews are signing more about loose gravel, but not always.

     Finally remember that motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries or death, and it is important for those involved in a motorcycle accident to contact an experienced motorcycle injury attorney in order to properly recover costs of that injury, medical bills, distress, loss of wages, medical expenses, and other damages caused as a result of the motorcycle accident. Please review the below guidelines to help you if you are involved in a motorcycle accident.

     Report the accident to local law enforcement and request a copy of an accident report. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you think you are not injured. Being involved in a motorcycle accident can result in severe shock, so any injuries may not be immediately apparent.

     Get the license number, personal and insurance details, and name of the other driver involved. Ask for the details and names of any witnesses present at the accident scene. Take pictures to document your injuries and damages as soon as possible.

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