Top Tips for Motorcycle Safety Every Biker Should Know

Motorcycles offer a sense of freedom and exhilaration that few other vehicles can match. 

However, they also come with significant risks. Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to severe injuries and fatalities than car occupants, making safety awareness paramount for all road users. 

Below, Morgan & Morgan offers our top safety tips every biker should know before they hit the road—and what to do if an accident leaves you needing a lawyer.

The Importance of Motorcycle Safety

Motorcyclists face unique challenges on the road. Without the protective enclosure of a car, riders are exposed to the full impact of collisions, weather conditions, and roadway hazards. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles per mile traveled.

Increased awareness and adherence to safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and save lives. 

Key Motorcycle Safety Tips

Wear the Right Gear

The right gear can mean the difference between life and death in an accident. Essential protective equipment includes:

• Helmet: A DOT-approved helmet reduces the risk of head injuries by 69% and the risk of death by 37%.
• Jacket and Pants: Abrasion-resistant clothing made of leather or textile materials can protect your skin during a fall.
• Gloves: Full-fingered gloves provide a better grip and protect your hands in case of a crash.
• Boots: Sturdy boots that cover your ankles can prevent foot and leg injuries.
• Eye Protection: Goggles or a helmet visor shield your eyes from debris, wind, and insects.

Kick the Tires

Before hitting the road, inspect your motorcycle to ensure it is in good working condition. Check:

• Tires for proper inflation and tread wear.
• Brakes for responsiveness.
• Lights and signals to ensure visibility.
• Mirrors for proper alignment.
• Fluid levels, including oil and coolant.

Look Like a Rebel, but Follow the Law

Just because you look like a rebel, doesn’t mean you don’t have to abide by traffic laws. Always:

• Obey speed limits.
• Avoid lane splitting unless it is legal in your state.
• Use turn signals to indicate your intentions.
• Stop at red lights and stop signs.

Practice Defensive Riding

Defensive riding involves anticipating potential hazards and taking proactive measures to avoid them. Key practices include:

• Maintaining a safe following distance.
• Staying out of drivers’ blind spots.
• Being cautious at intersections, where many accidents occur.
• Assuming that other drivers may not see you.

If You Drink, Wait to Drive

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination—skills that are critical for safe motorcycle operation. Never ride under the influence, and always have a designated driver if you’ve been drinking.

Get Schooled

Both new and experienced riders can benefit from motorcycle safety courses. These programs teach:

• Proper riding techniques.
• Emergency maneuvers.
• Traffic strategies for avoiding collisions.

The Role of Other Drivers in Motorcycle Safety

Motorcycle safety isn’t just the responsibility of riders; other drivers play a critical role in preventing accidents. Here’s how drivers can help:

• Check Blind Spots: Motorcycles can easily disappear in blind spots. Always double-check before changing lanes or merging.
• Give Motorcyclists Plenty of Space: Allow at least a three-second following distance to give motorcyclists room to maneuver.
• Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Look twice before turning or crossing an intersection.
• Avoid Distractions: Texting, eating, or other distractions can have deadly consequences.
• Be Patient: Don’t tailgate or drive aggressively around motorcyclists.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle accidents can help both riders and drivers take preventive measures. Common causes include:

• Left-Turn Accidents: Drivers turning left at intersections often fail to see oncoming motorcycles.
• Lane Changes: Drivers who don’t check blind spots may collide with motorcyclists.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and coordination for both riders and drivers.
• Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement pose significant risks to motorcyclists.
• Inexperienced Riders: Lack of experience can lead to poor decision-making and loss of control.

What to Do If You’re Harmed in a Motorcycle Accident

Despite taking all possible precautions, accidents can still happen. Knowing what to do in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident is crucial for protecting your health, rights, and financial future.

Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health is the top priority. If you’re able to move, get to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Document the Scene

If you’re physically able, gather evidence from the accident scene. This can include:

• Photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• The contact information of the other driver(s), including their name, phone number, and insurance details.
• Contact information for witnesses.

File a Police Report

A police report serves as an official record of the accident and can be invaluable if you pursue a personal injury claim. Provide the police with accurate information but avoid speculating about fault.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.

Contact Morgan & Morgan

An experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Morgan & Morgan can help you navigate the legal complexities of your case. They can:

• Investigate the accident.
• Gather evidence to establish liability.
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
• Pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

At Morgan & Morgan, our attorneys have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases and are committed to fighting for the rights of injured riders.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. 

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, riders can suffer from TBIs that lead to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These can cause partial or complete paralysis.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are particularly vulnerable.
• Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions that can lead to infections and scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs from the impact of a crash.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims

If you’ve been harmed in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Including hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical and emotional impact of the accident.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving egregious negligence, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party.

Morgan & Morgan Can Help

At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the devastating impact a motorcycle accident can have on your life. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. 

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. That’s right—the Fee Is Free®, and you only pay if we win.

Motorcycle safety is a shared responsibility that requires vigilance, respect, and education from all road users, but if you or a loved one were harmed in a motorcycle accident, know that you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. 

Contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free case evaluation. Together, we can fight for justice and help you fight for what you need and deserve to rebuild your life after a tragedy.