As the weather warms, you can expect to see more motorcyclists on the road around you. In an effort to remind drivers all over the country to look out for riders now that summer is almost here, May has been designated Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
Motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely than other motorists to sustain fatal injuries in a collision. Unfortunately, even the most experienced and safety-conscious riders can end up in a devastating crash with a reckless driver.
At the end of the day, everyone on the road owes a duty of care to those around them, including motorcyclists, commercial drivers, passenger vehicle motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Those who breach this duty of care can be held financially liable for any damages that result.
If you were hurt in a car or motorcycle wreck with a negligent driver, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. We understand the physical, financial, and emotional stress that a collision can place on you and your loved ones. Call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident attorney in Nashville.
Read on to learn a few safe driving tips to keep in mind during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month:
- Listen and Look
When traveling at high speeds, like on the highway, you are more likely to hear an approaching motorcycle before you see it. As a result, you should always keep the stereo at a reasonable volume, and you should confirm no one is approaching by looking for riders before making any kind of maneuver in traffic.
- Use Your Turn Signals
Intersections are notoriously dangerous for motorcyclists. You can reduce the chance of striking a rider by driving in a predictable manner, following local right of way laws, and turning on your blinker prior to turning.
- Make Eye Contact
Try to acknowledge or make eye contact with any nearby riders before crossing traffic. This will ensure they have seen you so you can complete the maneuver safely without causing a devastating wreck.
- Leave Plenty of Stopping Distance
When motorcyclists want to slow down, they are likely to downshift before actually applying the brakes. That means even if their brake lights are off, they could be decelerating.
For this reason, gauging a rider’s actual speed is challenging. As a result, you should always leave plenty of stopping distance between your own vehicle and any bikes ahead of you.
- Double-Check Your Blind Spots
Since motorcycles are much smaller than cars, they are a lot easier to miss in traffic. Always check your blind spots for riders before changing lanes or turning to prevent sideswipe collisions.
If you were hurt in a car or motorcycle wreck despite following the above tips, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. To discuss your case and determine the most strategic way to proceed, turn to the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr. We will help you gather evidence to prove fault and damages against all liable parties.
Contact us online or call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free consultation with an accident lawyer in Nashville. You can learn more about motorcycle crash claims in Tennessee by visiting USAttorneys.com.
Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
7104 Peach Court
Brentwood, TN 37027
800-427-8960 or 615-251-0005
