May Motorcycle Safety: How To Reduce Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Risks

Motorcyclists have the same rights as any other road user. However, motorcycles are generally more difficult to operate and they do not provide the same protections as other vehicles. This can make motorcycle accident injuries more likely to happen. During the summer months, when motorcycle traffic is at its heaviest, our Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer wants riders to be aware of the risks and ways to protect themselves on the road.

May Is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

May is one of the busiest months for motorcyclists. It makes sense that it is also the time of year when public safety officials focus on ways to help prevent crashes. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is an annual event that calls attention to potential hazards.

Motorists are urged to be alert for bikers on the road and to follow some simple safety tips to help protect them. These include:

• Look twice for motorcyclists: As motorcycles have a smaller footprint than other vehicles, they are easy to overlook.
• Motorcycles are closer than they appear: Because of its size, a motorcycle may appear farther away than it is. Consider the speed at which they are traveling and make sure they have enough stopping distance before passing or pulling out in front of them.
• Allow motorcyclists extra time and space: There are major differences between driving a car and a motorcycle. Be aware that bikers need more time to make stops and more space for turns.
• Be tolerant of lane shifting: Motorcyclists often shift lanes more frequently than other vehicles. This is often due to dodging debris on the road, getting a better look at potentially dangerous traffic conditions ahead, and trying to avoid riding directly alongside other motorists.

How Motorcyclists Can Protect Themselves

There are numerous poker runs, group rides, rallies, and other events that take place throughout the area over the summer months. These bring out local bikers as well as tourists to the area. Unfortunately, this can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents in Bradenton.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), close to 150 motorcycle accidents in Manatee County happen each year. Steps bikers can take to help reduce their risks include:

• Make sure the motorcycle you ride is the right size and regularly maintained;
• Wear a helmet and other standard safety gear;
• Obey all posted traffic rules and regulations;
• Be especially cautious in heavy traffic and when sharing the road with other bikers;
• If you encounter an aggressive driver, steer clear rather than responding to them or otherwise escalating the situation;
• Avoid riding if you plan on drinking or have any amount of alcohol in your system.

Discuss Your Options With Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents in Bradenton are unfortunately common and often result in serious personal injuries. To get the compensation you need to recover, get the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely on your side. Call or contact us online and request a consultation with our Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer today.

Sources:

msf-usa.org/safetyawarenessmonth/

flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf