Riding a motorcycle is more than just a mode of transportation to get from one place to another. For many, it is a hobby or a way of life. Riding the open roads can be liberating, but it has its risks. Motorcycle accidents are common, and they frequently result in serious bodily injuries.
The good news is that there are ways to keep you relatively safe in Texas. By following these strategies, you may avoid a costly collision that could seriously impact your health. If you have been hurt in an accident, discuss your options with a Fort Worth motorcycle accident attorney at the Patterson Law Group. We offer free consultations where we’re happy to answer your questions and assess your case to see if you have a viable claim.
Avoid drinking and driving
There are few things more dangerous than drinking and driving. It is especially true for motorcyclists, given how important it is to maintain balance while riding. Intoxication is hazardous for you and anyone else you share the road with. Impaired riders are one of the most common causes of accidents. Using drugs or alcohol reduces the reaction time needed to avoid a sudden obstacle, a dramatic change in the weather, or colliding with other vehicles.
Use appropriate safety equipment
Safety equipment—particularly helmets—can dramatically affect your chances of surviving a motorcycle crash. The impact absorbed by your helmet could help mitigate or prevent a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can potentially change your life.
Other forms of safety equipment could help prevent a wreck. This includes ensuring your motorcycle is equipped with the appropriate reflectors and headlights to warn other motorists of your presence. In addition, in case of a crash, many motorcycle jackets are made of leather, Kevlar, or other synthetic textiles. It protects your skin from road rash. It may also include additional protection and padding for your back, elbows, and shoulders. In addition, drive defensively, don’t lane split, obey all traffic laws, and ride within your limits.
Avoid speeding
It is essential to avoid traveling at unsafe speeds because going over the limit reduces the window of time needed to adjust to changing road conditions. However, it is especially dangerous for motorcycles because they are much smaller than other vehicles. The drivers you share the road with already struggle to see you, which is exacerbated when traveling at high speeds. When negligence results in a crash, a Fort Worth personal injury attorney could help.
Call us at Patterson Law Group for a free consultation
Despite your best efforts, motorcycle accidents still happen. You can control some of the elements around you but cannot prevent someone else from causing a collision due to their reckless behavior.
Our team at Patterson Law Group is ready to help you recover financial compensation for your damages. We are proud of our work advocating on behalf of injury victims. To learn more about your legal options, call us today or visit our Fort Worth location for a free consultation. We work on a contingency basis, so there are no upfront legal fees.
