Holstein Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorneys

Motorcycle injury lawyers become unwavering advocates for riders when disaster strikes. Their expertise in motorcycle accidents equips them to manage legal intricacies and secure justice and compensation for the injured.

Tips to Avoid Some of the Most Common Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are often avoidable with the right knowledge of riding techniques and safety measures. Below, we discuss common motorcycle crashes and how to prevent them, as well as the importance of safety gear, the risks involved, and what to do in case of an accident.

1. Drinking and Driving

According to the 1981 Hurt Report, alcohol is a factor in 50 percent of all motorcycle accidents. This is a highly preventable cause.

How to Avoid It:
- Never drink and ride. Alcohol affects fundamental riding skills such as balance and coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.

2. Car Turns Left in Front of You

This is the most common motorcycle accident. Often, a car fails to see the motorcycle or misjudges its speed, turning in front of it at an intersection.

How to Avoid It:
- Anticipate potential hazards: Slow down and cover your brakes when approaching intersections.
- Enhance visibility: Make sure the driver can see you clearly, watch their eyes and wheels, and never "lay the bike down." Use both brakes to shed speed upright for the best chance of survival.

3. Hitting Gravel in a Blind Corner

Riding on curvy country roads can lead to unexpected patches of sand or gravel, causing loss of control.

How to Avoid It:
- Adjust your pace: Match your speed to your range of vision. Use the "Slow In, Fast Out" rule for corners, entering wide and at an easy pace, and accelerating as you exit when visibility improves.

4. Entering a Corner Too Fast

Realizing mid-corner that you are going too fast can be dangerous.

How to Avoid It:
- Use visual cues: Ride only as fast as you can see and use environmental clues to judge the road’s direction.
- Stay calm and ride through: Trust your bike's capability, reduce lean by hanging off, and maintain smooth control.

5. Car Changes Lanes into You

On multi-lane roads, cars may swerve into your lane without seeing you, often because motorcycles are in their blind spots.

How to Avoid It:
- Avoid blind spots: Stay out of areas where drivers can't see you.
- Watch for lane change signals: Look for turn signals, wheel movements, and drivers checking mirrors.

6. Getting Hit From Behind

When stopped at an intersection, a car behind you might not see you and could crash into your motorcycle.

How to Avoid It:
- Strategic positioning: Stop to the side of the lane and flash your brake lights rapidly. Stay in gear and be ready to move if needed.

7. Careless Riding Buddies

In group rides, one rider stopping suddenly can cause a chain reaction of accidents.

How to Avoid It:
- Practice group riding etiquette: Ride in a staggered formation to improve vision and avoid collisions from temporary lapses in attention.

8. Locking Up the Front Brake

In a panic stop, grabbing the front brake too hard can lead to loss of control.

How to Avoid It:
- Master your front brake: Practice using it in a controlled environment like a parking lot to reduce your braking distance safely. Familiarize yourself with the braking power and feel of your bike.

Additional Safety Tips for Beginner Motorcyclists

With motorcycles becoming an economical alternative to cars, new riders should take into account the unique risks and necessary safety measures.

Safety Measures:
- Ride with lights on at all times.
- Wear protective clothing and gear: This includes a helmet, full-coverage clothing, and enclosed shoes.
- Follow traffic laws: Stay aware of your surroundings and other drivers.
- Avoid riding under the influence or when tired.
- Maintain your motorcycle: Regularly check lights, tire pressure, and brakes before long rides.

In Case of a Severe Burn Injury

Motorcycle accidents can result in third-degree burns requiring skin grafts, especially from contact with hot parts, chemicals, or road rash.

Skin Grafting Overview:
- Debridement and cleansing: Remove debris and dead tissue before the graft.
- Types of grafts: Split-thickness for less severe burns and full-thickness for more severe cases.
- Healing process: The graft is secured with dressings or sutures to prevent infection.

Burn injuries also bring psychological trauma. It's crucial to address both physical and mental health following an accident.

Consulting a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The toll from severe motorcycle injuries can encompass substantial medical expenses and long-term care costs for victims and their families. Lost wages may compound matters, especially if employment becomes unrealistic for an extended period. Getting help from a motorcycle accident attorney allows the pursuit of comprehensive compensation, from financial damages and emotional distress such as pain and suffering.

Victims of these accidents should seek consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney, as damages may be extensive and recovery of compensation is important.

At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our motorcycle accident attorneys can represent you in dealings with your insurance company, or when filing a personal injury claim. Set up your consultation now by calling 641-792-3595.