Car Accident Lawyer
Motorcycles offer the freedom of the open road, but they also offer innate dangers. On a regular day, distracted drivers and road debris can cause deadly accidents. When out on the open road, anything can happen which includes bad weather. Inclement weather increases the likelihood for accidentes de motocicletas as it causes slick roads and extra blind spots. Our friends at Unidos Legales have offered some tips on what to do if you are on your motorcycle and experience bad weather to stay safe.
Check the Weather
Best practice is always just to check the weather before leaving the house. Looking at the predicted overall daily forecast is a good idea, but it is also important to refer to the hourly forecast. If there is a slight chance for any inclement weather such as rain or fog, stay home and schedule a motorcycle ride for another day. There are also countless weather radar apps that allow users to monitor cloud formations in real time that can help better predict what the local weather will be like.
Pull Over
If bad weather strikes suddenly, do not try to stick it out and push through. Instead, pull over as soon as possible. Heavy downpours cause hard to see conditions in which a car can miss a motorcycle and cause an accident. Snow or cold winter weather can cause slick spots, and since motorcycles are far more unprotected than cars, this can cause extra dangers for motorcycle riders. Remember, if the weather turns bad, pull over to a safe spot.
Turn On Lights
Motorcyclists should turn their lights on in bad weather and even in the slightest bit of darkness. This can help other drivers to see the cycles on the road. If the weather is causing conditions in which it is extremely hard to see, flashing headlights or turning on hazard lights can help other drivers be aware of motorcycles on the road.
Wear Protective Gear
Protective gear should always be worn when riding a motorcycle in good weather and bad. This gear includes helmets, goggles or glasses, full coverage thick jackets, and long pants that are thick. Gloves are optional but can provide an extra layer of safety. Wear bright colors. The motorcycle aesthetic is often dark colors, so add reflective strips when wearing dark colors.
Plan Ahead
Knowing safe spots along a drive is extremely important for motorcycle riders. Planning ahead and mapping out locations where drivers can pull over or seek shelter from inclement weather is a smart move. If dark clouds form on the horizon unexpectedly, start looking for safe spots to wait out the potential storm. It is better to be safe than sorry in these situations.
These tips should help to keep motorcycle riders safe on the road in bad weather, but unexpected things still happen. If you or someone you love is injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer near you for help immediately.