As a motorcyclist, it is essential to be vigilant and aware of the road’s hidden dangers. As with any driver or rider, you’re at risk of accidents and injuries every time you’re on the roads.
However, unlike car drivers, you are more exposed to potential hazards as a motorcyclist. For this reason, read safety is crucial for keeping you and others safe and injury free.
How To Spot Road Safety Hazards
Below, we have listed some top tips to help you identify the hidden dangers of the roads to keep you safe as a motorcyclist.
You could be entitled to compensation if you sustain an injury in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault. Contact the Lamber Goodnow motorcycle injury lawyers to start the claims process and receive the settlement that you deserve.
Intersections And Blind Spots
Intersections are one of the most hazardous areas for motorcyclists. They are areas where several vehicles come together, traveling in various directions, and they often contain blind spots (areas where your vision is obstructed by an object).
Be cautious when approaching intersections, and watch out for drivers who may not see you or fail to abide by the right of way. It’s best to assume that other vehicles can’t see you or aren’t going to stop at an intersection than it is to take the risk and end up in a collision. Being extra vigilant at intersections, and ensures you can avoid hazards, accidents, and injuries.
Road Surface Conditions
The road surface condition can significantly impact your stability and grip on the roads as a motorcyclist. Even seemingly small potholes or patches of loose gravel could cause you to lose balance and swerve off the road.
Wherever possible, you should avoid potholes, spillages, and wet or icy patches, to maximize your safety and avoid road injuries. Check the weather conditions before you go out for a ride and find an alternative way to travel during adverse weather conditions. If you can’t find an alternative mode of transport, ride more slowly and remain cautious at all times.
Distracted And Aggressive Drivers
Distracted driving is a prevalent issue on the roads today for drivers of all car brands and motorcyclists, thanks to smart devices. As a motorcyclist, you’re particularly vulnerable to the consequences of other drivers not paying attention because you don’t have a protective metal layer surrounding you.
Practice proper road safety and be careful if you spot another driver or rider using their phone or engaging in other distracting activities. Although you can’t control what other drivers do, you can take extra steps to keep yourself safe and prevent road traffic collisions.
Wildlife And Animals
If you’re riding through rural and wooded areas, you may be exposed to wildlife and animals crossing the roads. You’ll need to slow down, especially on windy roads or in poorly-lit areas so you have time to react to wildlife if they walk out in front of your bike.
Be prepared to brake or steer around animals crossing the road, but avoid harsh movements that could throw you off the road completely. Although this is easier said than done in the moment, riding sensibly should minimize the risks of injuries and fatalities.
