There is nothing any of us can do to guarantee we won’t be in an accident one day. The best we can do is to be aware of the situations that most commonly cause accidents so we can reduce the risk of being in one. That is more important for motorcycles than other motor vehicles, since motorcycles are smaller and have less protection for riders than other vehicles.
In most cases, simply knowing how to protect yourself from other drivers can help you avoid a motorcycle accident.
Tips on How to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents
A large majority of motorcycle accidents in Long Beach are caused by a car or truck that fails to yield the right of way to a motorcycle. One of the best ways to avoid a motorcycle accident is to constantly be aware of the vehicles around you, and assume they will not yield the right of way. In many of the motorcycle accident cases I’ve handled, the at-fault driver claimed he did not see the motorcycle and either turned in front of it or cut the motorcycle off while switching lanes.
Be aware of drivers who glance over their shoulders. This is an indication they may be changing lanes, and they may not see you. Also, when you approach an intersection where a car is waiting to turn, slow down and be prepared to take evasive action, if necessary. Never take your eyes off the cars at an intersection. With traffic flowing in all directions, unexpected things can happen and you may only have seconds to react and avoid an accident.
Staying alert is the key to avoiding any accident. Do not use electronic devices or engage in other activities that are distracting. This can impair your ability to remain on a constant lookout for drivers who are not looking out for you.
Many motorcyclists have started using GoPro cameras on their helmets to record activity on the road, in case of a motorcycle accident. While these cameras won’t protect you from having an accident, they can be invaluable when it comes to determining who was at fault in a collision. I strongly recommend the use of these cameras for all motorcyclists.
More Information About Motorcycle Accidents
Taking a motorcycle safety course is an excellent way to learn more about how to avoid motorcycle accidents. Ride Apart has an excellent article entitled “10 Common Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them.” Read the article and see if a motorcycle safety course is right for you.
Contact an experienced Long Beach Motorcycle Attorney for a Free Consultation
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