For many people, there is nothing more invigorating than riding a motorcycle. However, with that freedom comes an added risk due to being less protected from road and weather conditions and more prone to severe injuries or death when an accident occurs. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration1, more than 80 percent of all reported motorcycle crashes result in injury or death to the motorcyclist.
Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding
- Alcohol impairment
- Drivers not looking for motorcycles
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe road or weather conditions
Although only 3% of motorcycle accidents occur in bad weather conditions, it can be more difficult to avoid accidents caused by other factors, such as negligence, impairment, or distracted driving.
Rain or shine, it’s always best to be well-prepared before getting on a motorcycle and to have a Louisville motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. Here is a list of bad weather conditions and the precautions you can take to mitigate the risks of driving in them.
Weather Conditions and Precautions
- Rain
Riding a motorcycle during or after rain can decrease visibility and tire traction on wet roads. The worst time to be on the road is during a rainstorm’s first ten to twenty minutes. To mitigate the risk of an accident, slow down, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden movements or puddles. Wear appropriate rain gear and reflective clothing to protect your body and increase your visibility to other drivers.
The more water between your tires and the road (combined with motor oil on the road’s surface), the greater the likelihood of hydroplaning when a vehicle skids out of control on a layer of water. The risk of hydroplaning can be greater on a motorcycle than on other vehicles because motorcycles only have two wheels and less traction on the road. Motorcycles also have a greater risk of tipping or flipping over.
The best thing you can do in a hydroplaning event is to try not to panic. Instead of braking hard or swerving, slowly take your hands off the throttle and coast in a straight line while avoiding traffic hazards.
- Snow, Sleet, and Ice
Like rain, any freezing precipitation reduces visibility and increases the risk of slippery roads. Frozen precipitation can also lead to the formation of black ice on the road, which can be hard to see. Slowing down and increasing your following distance as much as possible is important. Snow on surfaces can be extra hazardous because snow will reflect the sun’s glare. It’s advisable to wear sunglasses and avoid looking at snow directly.
- Wind
Wind can reduce a motorcycle’s stability and balance and make it much harder to control, even increasing the risk of being blown off course. If strong winds are in the forecast, it’s a good idea to consider changing your route or rescheduling your ride. If you come upon strong wind unexpectedly, maintain a steady speed and grip on the handlebars, and try to lean into the wind.
- Fog
Obviously, fog reduces visibility and makes it more difficult to accurately judge distances from and between other objects. As a precaution, use low-beam headlights or turn on fog lights if you have them, slow down, and increase your following distance. You can also wear reflective clothing and use hand signals to communicate with other drivers.
- Heat Waves and High Temperatures
Even hot and sunny weather can be problematic. Sunny, hot weather can cause sunburns, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. It is best to avoid riding during the hottest parts of the day (noon – 5 p.m.) and to take frequent breaks. Always stay hydrated with water or drinks with electrolytes, and eat salty snacks to replace what is lost from sweating. Avoid caffeine and alcohol (even when you’re not in the saddle). Wear tight, stretchy, wicking clothing or a cooling vest underneath full-length riding gear to keep your body cool.
- Lightning
Unlike being in a car with a metal frame surrounding you, when you’re on a motorcycle during a thunderstorm, there is a slight risk of being struck by lightning due to your head being exposed at the highest point. Whenever you hear thunder, it’s best to seek the nearest shelter. If you are caught in a place without shelter, cover under an underpass or bridge.
General Motorcycle Safety
Know your Motorcycle
Riding a motorcycle takes a lot of practice, skill, and responsibility. Because of this, it’s vital to follow motorcycle safety rules and regulations required in your state. If you’re unsure of these, you can always contact a local motorcycle accident lawyer in Louisville.
If you’re an inexperienced rider, taking a safety course is a good idea. When you’re on a new or unfamiliar bike, it’s important to get comfortable with how it rides and to know how to maneuver it under different conditions. Avoid riding on gravel or dirt roads that can get muddy whenever possible. Stay on the highway in the far left or right lanes to reduce passing traffic.
Safety Checks
As well as preparing yourself, it’s just as important toperform regular motorcycle maintenance and safety checks before departing. This includes checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, signals, and headlights.
Wear a Helmet
Statistics show that helmets save lives. According to the CDC, helmets reduce serious head injuries by 69 percent and death by up to 37 percent. In Kentucky, you must wear a helmet if you are 1) under 21, 2) have an instruction permit, and/or 3) have been riding for less than a year. When shopping for a standard-grade helmet, ensure it has a DOT-approved safety rating and fits your head correctly.
Avoid Bad Weather When Possible
The best way to avoid inclement weather is to check the weather forecast before heading out. If you encounter dangerous weather conditions unexpectedly, adjust your riding behavior accordingly and proceed cautiously.
Contact a Louisville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
No matter how safe or prepared you are, motorcycle accidents can still happen due to other drivers’ bad decisions or unforeseen circumstances, such as unpredictable weather. Here at Sam Aguiar Injury Lawyers, we are proud to be the motorcycle accident attorneys Louisville residents can rely on for advice 24/7.
Do you have a case for us? We have experience with various personal injury claims and can get you compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. And with our No Fee Guarantee®, you don’t have to pay us unless you get paid. Contact us for a free consultation today.