May 2nd, 2022

May is Motorcycle Safety Month

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In an effort to raise awareness of the dangers and vulnerabilities that motorcycle riders face every day, The National Safety Council designates May as Motorcycle Safety Month. According to the NHTSA a motorcycle rider or passenger is 29 times more likely to be killed in a collision than occupants of other types of motor vehicles.

Safety tips

If you are driving a motorcycle, take note of the following safety tips:

  • Avoid riding in poor weather conditions
  • Ride so you are seen by using your headlights and avoiding drivers’ blind spots
  • Use your turn signal with every lane change
  • Wearing properly fitting motorcycle-specific protective gear can prevent serious injury in the event of a crash
  • Keep your motorcycle well maintained

If you are driving a vehicle near a motorcycle

  • Allow for greater distance when following behind a motorcycle
  • Look twice for motorcycles. Take extra care at intersections and when making a left turn
  • Never share a lane. Always give a motorcycle the full lane width
  • Use care when driving near a group of motorcyclists
  • Be sure to signal when changing lanes or merging into traffic

Be Prepared

  • Keep emergency contact information in a place someone can find it in the event of a crash
  • Tape your insurance cards and important information to one of your shoulder pads or keep it in a safe place such in an interior jacket pocket
  • Make sure your motorcycle is properly insured with the highest amount of coverage available – don’t just get a minimal limits policy.  When you need, you will want the best coverage possible.

Following an accident

  • If you are able, move away from the flow of traffic
  • Stay calm and call the police and/or 911
  • Get information from all drivers involved in the accident and any witnesses including insurance information (names of insured, carriers and policy numbers)
  • Note the exact date, time and location of the accident
  • Take pictures of all vehicles involved, including your own, as well as their location immediately after the accident
  • Call an attorney with Stein Sperling – we can help you through the claims process, even with your own insurance company.