Motorcyclists are at a particularly high risk of dying when they are involved in a traffic accident, due to the fact that a motorcycle affords practically no protection to the rider. Unlike passenger vehicles, which surround the driver and passengers in steel and glass, hold them in place with a seat belt, and, in most newer models even offer airbags, a motorcycle has none of these safety features. Motorcyclists are a staggering 30 times more likely to die in a traffic collision than those in a passenger vehicle, according to statistics from the IIHS.

In 2016, in the state of Colorado, 125 motorcyclists died in traffic accidents—more than any other year on record. Further, the one safety feature motorcyclists do have—helmets—were rarely worn among those who died in these accidents. So how can motorcyclists in Colorado and across the nation stay safe, and avoid being injured in a motorcycle accident? The following tips could help increase the safety of those who are planning on hitting the open roadways as the winter gives way to spring:

• Wear appropriate gear. Even when the weather turns warm, it is never okay to wear shorts and sandals when riding a motorcycle. Even jeans, while better than shorts, fail to offer serious protection against road rash and other injuries should your motorcycle slide. It should go without saying that your first line of defense against motorcycle injuries like traumatic brain injury is to always wear a DOT-approved helmet. If your helmet is open-faced, wear goggles as well. Finally, add gloves to protect your hands, as well as leathers or a reinforced jacket, pants and boots. Some manufacturers now make specially designed riding gear which offers cooling and ventilation.
• Make sure you have sufficient experience with your motorcycle before you head out. First, know your own abilities and limitations, and buy a motorcycle which is within those parameters. If your motorcycle feels too heavy, or your feet cannot rest flat on the ground when you are seated, then you are riding the wrong motorcycle. You should be able to mount and dismount easily and should also be able to reach all the controls comfortably. Practice riding your motorcycle in a safe area with no traffic until you have the necessary skills.
• Know your motorcycle and perform a quick inspection before heading out. If you own a motorcycle, you should know how to perform regular care and maintenance on your bike. Make sure there are no leaks or loose bolts, and always check your mirrors, lights and tire pressure. Keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule for your motorcycle for such issues as brake pads, suspension adjustments and oil changes.
• Always remain alert. You cannot always rely on other drivers to see you, therefore you must remain on high alert for drivers who change lanes without seeing you, or back out of a parking spot or driveway without seeing you.
• Pay attention to your surroundings. Particularly when you are on an unfamiliar road you must be extra vigilant, watching for gravel, animals, road debris or potholes in particular.
• Make sure you will not be riding in inclement weather. The dangers of driving on wet or icy roads are even more so when you are riding a motorcycle as opposed to driving a car. You have much less stability on a motorcycle than you do in a vehicle, your visibility is lessened, and, being hit by raindrops at 50 mph is not a pleasant experience.
• Make sure passengers are properly outfitted. If you have a passenger on the rear of your motorcycle, ensure he or she is wearing a helmet, protective clothing and the right shoes.

Further Reading: The Dangers of Summer Driving are on the Horizon

Contact Our North Denver Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Riding a motorcycle in the spring, summer and fall can be an exhilarating experience, however it is crucial that you use your common sense and judgment to keep yourself and your passengers safe. If you are hit by a negligent driver, contacting an experienced North Denver motorcycle accident attorney can change the outcome of your accident for the better.  At Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., our committed motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves justice. Contact us at (303) 423-1770 or (866) 385-3505.

Our personal injury lawyers have extensive experience representing injured accident victims in Broomfield, Arvada, Superior, Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, Brighton, Commerce City, Northglenn, Westminster, Thornton, Longmont, and throughout Colorado.