Motorcycle riders are vulnerable to far more dangers than other road users. For many motorcyclists, this is part of the appeal – the wind in your hair, and the ever-present sense of danger.
But if you crash your bike, the consequences can be severe. Motorcyclists can suffer terrible injuries even with the best protective gear, and there is little that you can do to escape some dangerous situations.
If you were in a motorcycle crash, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Our Las Vegas personal-injury lawyer will examine the circumstances of the accident and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim.
Call us today at 702-821-1821 to schedule an appointment, and read on to learn about four common problems that motorcycle riders face on Nevada roads:
- Obstacles and Hazards
Motorcycles are far more susceptible to road hazards than cars. A small pothole or puddle may be an annoyance for a driver, but it can cause a serious accident for a motorcyclist.
According to Women Riders Now, common hazards include uneven road surfaces, oil slicks, sand, railway tracks and debris. Keep an eye out for these while you are on the road, and avoid them at all costs.
- Speed Wobble
Motorcycles that travel at a high speed are susceptible to the speed wobble. This happens when the front of the bike becomes unstable. It may begin to shake, at which point there is very little you can do to correct the situation.
According to Rider Magazine, one way to avoid speed wobbles is to make sure you align your front and rear tires correctly. If you do get into a wobble, apply the brake gently but avoid locking them because this would only make the situation worse.
- Driver Awareness
Motorcycles are smaller than cars, and many drivers simply fail to see them while on the road. There is very little that motorcyclists can do about inattentive drivers, but wearing reflective vests and driving responsibly can increase your visibility to other motorists. It is also important to avoid riding in motorists’ blind spots and to approach intersections cautiously.
- Traffic
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in heavy traffic. If a car hits you from behind, even at low speeds, you may suffer serious injuries. An alternative to being vulnerable in stationary traffic is to split lanes, but this also comes with various risks. If possible, avoid traveling at peak times, and always remain on high alert for inattentive motorists who are more focused on traffic than approaching motorcycles.
Women Riders Now suggests that motorcyclists play the “What if?” game throughout a journey. This can help you anticipate motorists’ actions and plan your own reaction in the worst-case scenario.
If you were in a motorcycle accident, then you probably face steep health-care costs and lost wages. At the Truman Law Firm, P.C., we may be able to help you file a lawsuit to recover these losses. Call us today at 702-821-1821, and a Las Vegas accident attorney from our firm will meet with you to discuss your case.
