Laredo's warm climate often affords motorcyclists the luxury of year-round riding. With spring in full swing and the summer coming, however, even more people will dusting off their bikes and hitting the road.
Many seasoned motorcyclists may already be aware of the safety precautions that should be taken before riding. For those who are new to riding, it's critical that you learn which measures to take before you head out. Here are some standard safety tips:
Always inspect your motorcycle
Riding a motorcycle with mechanical or safety defects can be a recipe for disaster. Before you begin riding, it's critical that you always have your bike thoroughly inspected.
You should ensure that your wheels, exhaust, steering, and brakes are all intact. Your bike's lights (both front and back) and horn should be fully functional.
Your tires should be fully inflated and have adequate tread. In addition, your fluids should be filled to the right levels.
Anytime you plan on riding, it's a good idea to briefly check your bike for any mechanical defects. Be aware that wear and tear can occur and nuts and bolts can come loose after a while.
Make sure you dress in protective gear
Texas law requires riders under 21 to wear a helmet. It's a good idea for all riders to wear helmets, however. A properly-fitted motorcycle helmet can reduce the chance of death in a crash by 37 percent. It can also reduce the likelihood of sustaining a traumatic brain injury by 67 percent.
In addition to a helmet, you should also wear proper attire to protect yourself from road rash in the event of a crash. The best articles of clothing and gear for riding include:
- Long pants and jeans
- Boots
- A heavy denim jacket or leather jacket
- Leather gloves
- Arm guards
- Leg guards
- Goggles or other protective eye wear
It's also wise to include articles of clothing or devices that can make you more visible, especially at night. This can include reflective strips or bright orange or green vests. You can also add reflective devices to your bike.
Ride defensively
Sharing the road with cars and trucks can be dangerous for motorcyclists. You can't predict the moves a driver may make. It's best to maintain a safe distance between you and others on the road.
If you notice that someone is distracted or doesn't see you in a blind spot, try honking your horn and get out of the way if you're able to.
Also, be on the lookout for potholes, uneven surfaces, sand or debris in the road.
Contact a Laredo personal injury lawyer if you've been in a crash
Should you be injured in a crash with a negligent driver, an experienced Laredo motorcycle accident attorney can help you pursue legal damages.
Attorney John R. Solis can investigate the cause of your motorcycle crash and devise a legal strategy to help you get the compensation you need.
To set up your free case evaluation, contact attorney Solis online or call 866-465-9093.