The United States is home to roughly 275 million registered vehicles. Although today’s vehicles have much better safety features than those of old, fatalities and major injuries still happen. This is even more true with motorcycles. As a motorcyclist in Florida, you can take several precautions to prevent motorcycle accidents before they happen.
Avoid lane splitting
Thanks to their great handling and superior mobility, motorcycles can help you get around faster. However, you should avoid lane splitting at all costs.
Lane splitting refers to illegally driving between occupied lanes of traffic. Even if there’s plenty of room to squeeze between two vehicles in side-by-side lanes, you should never split lanes. Other drivers rarely lookout for motorcyclists who use this illegal driving trick.
Wearing an approved helmet
Although almost all motorcyclists across the United States wear helmets, just 65% use helmets that comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s guidelines.
All DOT-approved helmets have a black-and-white sticker that says “DOT Certified” on the back. In an attempt to sell more helmets, some seedy manufacturers illegally put these stickers on motorcycle helmets that don’t meet DOT guidelines. To avoid getting a bunk helmet, only shop for helmets with trusted retailers.
DOT-approved helmets both prevent motorcycle accidents and limit their severity. Make sure you replace your helmet at least once every five years.
Stay aware of road hazards
Cars, trucks and vans can power through road conditions that motorcycles can’t. Some examples of road hazards that can easily wreck motorcycles include gravel, grass clippings and small animals.
If you’re not already aware of road hazards, research them before taking your motorcycle out. Improving your motorcycle’s headlights can also help you detect these hazards more easily.
With these tips in mind, you stand a better chance of steering clear of motorcycle accidents. If you have been in an accident due to another driver’s carelessness, then you may want to reach out to a personal injury attorney for help.