May is Motorcycle Safety Month

With warm weather finally upon us, more and more motorcyclists are hitting the highways. Unfortunately, Houston motorcycle accident attorneys at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris, L.L.P., Accident & Injury Lawyers  know that this likely will mean an increase in traffic accidents and fatalities for riders.

Because motorcyclists are not protected by the same metal framing that’s around people who drive cars, their injuries in a wreck can be much worse. May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and it couldn’t come at a better time. To help riders stay safe, we offer these safety recommendations.

Always look for a way out: It’s good driving practice to always be aware of what’s around you and where you can move to avoid an accident if a dangerous situation suddenly arises. Always be on the look out for potential hazards on the road.

Drive as if you are invisible: Motorcycles often get missed by car drivers who aren’t looking for them. Assume they can’t see you, and drive accordingly. Use your headlights, horn when necessary, and position your bike to give yourself the best advantage of being seen. Take extra care at intersections.

Give yourself room: Safe following distance is crucial to allow for time to react.

Keep up your bike’s maintenance: A mechanical failure while riding can be fatal. Always keep your bike maintained. Check the breaks, make sure headlights work, check the oil and fuel, make sure controls are working right before ever setting out on a ride.

Dress for success: Always wear a DOT-compliant helmet, eye protection, boots, pants made out of thick material, and gloves. Think visibility when getting dressed for riding. Bright clothing is more easily noticed, and reflective riding gear is ideal at night.

Follow traffic laws: One of the easiest ways to get into an accident, whether on a motorcycle or in a car, is to not follow traffic rules. Stick to the posted speed limits, always stop at red lights, look both ways before making turns, etc.

If you have been injured in a car accident, call on the extensive experience of Houston motorcycle accident attorney Jonathan Harris.