Safety Measures to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents in Seattle

Although riding motorcycles is a passion for many, this does not change the fact that a collision could have dire consequences for a rider. In order to keep yourself safe while operating your bike, it is vital to follow relevant safety measures to prevent motorcycle accidents in Seattle. Failing to do so could lead to a serious, life-altering crash. In more severe cases, a motorcycle accident could even prove fatal.

By following a few basic principles, you could enjoy the pleasures of motorcycling for years to come. If you have further questions about the relevant laws, traffic regulations, or safety measures, a motorcycle accident attorney at our firm is here for you. Call us today to learn more.

Know Your Skill Level and Work to Improve It

Motorcycle riding requires skill; the more powerful the bike, the more skill required to handle it. Motorcyclists could get into trouble if they try to manage a larger or more powerful bike than they can handle, or if they ride in dangerous conditions before they have the experience to do so.

Like all skills, safe motorcycle handling comes with practice. Washington Revised Code §46.20.500 requires bikers to take written and skills exams to get their license to ride in the state. A rider can take these tests as part of a motorcycle safety training course, and a course is a great way to hone skills. Motorcycle schools often offer advanced courses for experienced riders to maintain their skills and acquire new ones. Therefore, whether you are a seasoned biker or are just getting into the hobby, training courses are a vital safety measure that could help further prevent Seattle motorcycle accidents.

Always Ride Defensively

Every experienced motorcyclist has stories about drivers who did not see them, even though they were in plain view. This is a real thing, and it is called inattentional blindness.  Drivers expect to see vehicles similar to theirs while on the road. They often do not notice what they are not expecting to see, such as a motorcycle.

Riders must proceed as if they were invisible to motorists because often, they are. The emphasis vehicle manufacturers place on suppressing road noise makes the problem worse because drivers may not hear a motorcycle either.

A motorcyclist must focus on maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. Bikers with the right of way must be cautious about asserting it and assume oncoming vehicles do not see them. Although it can be frustrating, bikers should give vehicles a wide berth and assume vehicles will not respect their right to share the road. Keeping this distance and remaining hyper-aware are important safety measures to prevent Seattle motorcycle accidents.

Keep Your Bike in Top Condition

Maintenance issues could cause failures or malfunctions that lead to a crash. Getting in the habit of checking important components every time you ride is an essential safety measure that could help avoid a motorcycle accident.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation is a non-profit motorcycle training and research foundation supported by a consortium of motorcycle manufacturers. It recommends that riders conduct a T-CLOCS inspection every time they ride. T-CLOCS stands for:

• Tires and wheels
• Controls
• Lights and electrical
• Oil and fluids
• Chassis
• Sidestand

Bikers who put their motorcycles away for the winter should be aware that fuel can degrade if it sits in the tank too long. This could clog the fuel lines, affect performance, and lead to dangerous accidents.

In addition, tires are especially vulnerable to failure. It is essential to check that tires are properly inflated before every ride and ensure adequate tread depth. If the motorcycle’s handling changes, the bike vibrates, or it makes a strange noise, a tire’s sidewall might be breaking down or separating. Getting off the bike as soon as it is safe to do so and replacing the tire is critical to avoid a Seattle motorcycle accident.

Discuss Safety Measures to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents in Seattle with an Attorney

While you cannot eliminate every possible risk while out on the road, implementing safety measures to prevent a motorcycle accident in Seattle could help reduce the chances of a devastating collision.

If you have further questions about these vital steps or have been involved in a severe motorcycle accident, a Seattle attorney could help. They could handle communication with insurance companies and protect your right to pursue damages. Allow a lawyer at our firm to handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on recovering. Contact us today to set up a consultation.