May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Learn how Connecticut riders and drivers can help prevent crashes and stay safe on the road.
Motorcycle Accidents
MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH
Gear Up for Safety
May is recognized as motorcycle safety awareness month in the United States. A campaign that reminds motorcyclists and drivers to safely share the roads. Warmer weather tends to bring more riders out on the roads, which sadly increases the rate of accidents.
Motorcyclists are more at risk than passengers in cars. Passengers in cars have the advantage of a car’s frame, seatbelts, and airbags. Unfortunately, motorcycles do not have these amenities. Even a minor collision on a motorcycle can lead to major injuries. That is why safety refreshers are crucial during this time of year.
Safety Reminders For Drivers
- Look Twice Before You Turn or Change Lanes. Motorcycles can be difficult to spot, especially in a driver’s blind spots. It is crucial to always double check your mirrors and look over your shoulder before making any lane changes or turns.
- Give Motorcyclists a Full Lane. Do not try and share a lane with riders. Motorcyclists are entitled to the full lane so that they can safely navigate their way around any hazards on the road.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance. Leave at least a 3-4 second following distance between your vehicle and a motorcycle. This gives you time to react to any sudden movements. Tailgating a motorcycle is extremely dangerous and increases the risk of a crash.
- Avoid Distracted Driving. Keep your full attention on the road at all times, especially when motorcyclists are close by. Even a second of distraction can have life-threatening consequences.
- Be Cautious at Intersections. Intersections are one of the most dangerous spots for riders. Before turning or pulling out, scan carefully for riders – especially those traveling straight through the intersection. Always give motorcyclists the right of way when required.
- Signal Sooner. Using your turn signal early gives riders a safe amount of time to react to a driver’s next move and make the right adjustments. Clear communication saves lives.
- Stay Patient. Give riders grace on the roads. Motorcyclists may slow down or adjust their position in their lane to avoid any hazards on the roads. A little patience behind the wheel goes a long way.
Tips for Motorcyclists
- Wear Protective Gear. Always wear a DOT approved helmet, abrasion-resistant material clothing, gloves, boots, and reflective gear to maximize your protection on the road.
- Stay Visible. Use your headlight (even during the day) and avoid riding in driver’s blind spots whenever possible.
- Ride Defensively. Be alert for turning vehicles, especially at intersections. Maintain a safe following distance behind cars to allow time to react to sudden movements.
- Check your Bike. Before every ride, inspect your bike to make sure that there are no mechanical issues. Use the T-CLOCS checklist to guide your inspection.
- Be Cautious in Bad Weather. Always check the forecast before taking your bike out on the roads. If you encounter wet roads or low visibility, slow down and ride cautiously. If conditions worsen, don’t hesitate to pull over and wait for the weather to clear.
MCCOY & MCCOY LAW FIRM
CT Personal Injury Lawyers
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, you have rights. An experienced personal injury attorney at McCoy & McCoy knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Established in the 1960s, the law firm of McCoy & McCoy continues to provide injury victims throughout Connecticut with reliable, sympathetic, and efficient legal help in the areas of accident claims, personal injury, and wrongful deaths. With over 50+ years of combined experience, our team compromises Connecticut natives who have a passion for justice and the local communities we live in.
Few law firms that practice personal injury can truthfully state that 100% of efforts are allocated to cases involving serious injures. We understand these cases involve complex legal theories and that our clients face added obstacles created by catastrophic injuries through no fault of their own.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
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