Mt. Juliet and Lebanon TN
Fresh spring air and warm temperatures call to motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you hit the road to cruise alone or join friends, motorcycle safety should be at the forefront of your mind. That’s why Nashville’s personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Yancy Belcher shares on the blog today four safety tips for motorcycle riders this spring.
Why is motorcycle safety so important?
Motorcycles can be dangerous since there is little protection if you get into an accident. Additionally, there are no airbags or seatbelts to keep you safe when you crash. Some of the most common causes for motorcycle accidents are poor weather conditions, busy intersections, and other drivers not noticing motorcycles on the road. However, our personal injury lawyer in Mt. Juliet explains that you can safely drive a motorcycle and protect yourself by following the below safety tips.
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Practice
There is truth in the old saying, “practice makes perfect.” Driving a motorcycle may not be for everyone, but it’s best that you feel entirely confident before venturing onto a busy road. In the state of Tennessee, it’s necessary to get a Class M endorsement on your driver’s license before you can drive a motorcycle on public roads. Although studying the book and passing a short test is necessary for endorsement, it does not mean you are ready for your first road trip. Therefore, personal injury lawyers in Hermitage recommend that you practice driving your motorcycle in a safe area or large parking lot away from other vehicles. Then, continue practicing until you feel 100% confident and comfortable with your bike, including the brakes, turn signals, and other features.
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Get an Inspection
Your motorcycle has multiple moving components that can fail at any time, especially when you have an older model. Regular maintenance and visual checks should suffice for those who purchase a brand new bike until the motorcycle ages. Individuals who want to buy a used motorcycle should look beyond the bike’s appearance and examine the bike’s mechanics instead. For example, check the brakes, fluids, and tires to ensure that the motorcycle is safe for the open road. In addition, people purchasing a motorcycle should locate a sales center to inquire about which size is best before purchasing. You don’t want to be on a trip and realize the cycle is too much for you to handle.
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Wear Protective Gear
Motorcyclists should wear a helmet, even when driving in states without a mandatory helmet law. The helmet is the only protection for your head in an accident and should therefore be a crucial component of every motorcycle ride. Additionally, it’s vital to wear the right shoes, such as boots covering your ankles. Other safety considerations are wearing leather chaps and a jacket for your skin’s protection against road rash and wearing reflective gear to increase your visibility to other drivers.
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Check the Weather
Getting caught in the rain while enjoying a bike ride is no fun, but it can also be downright dangerous. Therefore, our personal injury lawyer in Nashville advises motorcycle riders to check the weather before departing. If the forecast states it’s going to rain, sleet, or snow, or there’s low visibility due to fog or poor weather conditions, you should plan your trip accordingly. Even though traveling in unfavorable conditions is not recommended, ensure you take extra precautions if you get caught in poor weather conditions while on a motorcycle ride.
Personal injury lawyers in the Nashville area, including Hermitage and Mt. Juliet, TN
Riding your motorcycle in the warm spring air can be a moment that you’ve waited on for months. However, safe driving requires preparation, understanding, and paying attention. Although you can’t control other drivers, you can manage your reactions. However, if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident that results in injuries as a result of another driver’s negligence, feel free to call Mt. Juliet’s experienced personal injury lawyers at the Law Office of Yancy Belcher at (615) 773-2889 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
