What To Do If You Are in a Motorcycle Accident

Whether you drive a passenger vehicle or ride a motorcycle, every driver should be as safe as possible while out on the roads in order to protect their own safety and the safety of others.

While riding a motorcycle can be relatively safe, every motorcyclist should be aware of accident statistics and remind themselves that it is necessary to be diligent in staying safe and not taking unnecessary risks while on their bikes. Unfortunately, many accidents are caused because other drivers are not paying enough attention, or simply do not see the motorcyclist. While all drivers should be cautious and careful, their decreased visibility should make motorcyclists even more cautious.

In order to avoid accidents, or reduce the seriousness of any accidents that do occur, motorcyclists should take these tips into consideration. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that motorcyclists are 25 times likelier to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers of passenger vehicles. If an unavoidable obstacle does present itself, keep the following steps in mind.

1. Brake quickly. If you encounter an obstacle you should brake quickly using both your front and your back brakes. Sometimes this may cause the front brakes to lock up. If this happens you should release them quickly and then apply them immediately once again. However, if your back brakes are the ones that lock up, just keep them locked instead releasing and applying them again.
2. Steer away from the obstacle. Whatever is in your path that is posing a threat you should avoid hitting full on. Instead, keep control of your bike and steer clear of the obstacle if possible.
3. Do not lay your bike down. Because the tires have more traction than the side of the bike, it will be quicker to brake if you keep your bike upright. Laying your bike down is far more likely to cause serious injuries, so it should be avoided at all costs.
4. Do not tense up. In the event of a fall there are a few things you should be aware of. First of all, if you find yourself falling from your bike you should do your best not to tense up. Both gravity and momentum are going to run their course no matter what, so tensing up and attempting to stop the fall will usually not do any good and will just result in further injuries.

Do not tuck and roll. Doing so can cause spinal injuries. Always wear a helmet so that your head and brain are protected.

St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Just because motorcycles may be harder to spot does not mean that drivers are absolved of the responsibility of being careful and making sure there are no vehicles – motorcycles or not – in their path. Motorcyclists who have been involved in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence or careless behavior should contact an experienced Missouri motorcycle accident attorney to discuss legal options. You may be entitled to damages for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses you have experienced as the result of the accident.

To speak with a motorcycle accident attorney at the Zevan and Davidson Law Firm, call us today at (314) 588-7200.

photo credit: Elvert Barnes