If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you probably already know that this time of year provides the perfect weather for riding. The oppressive heat of summer is gone, but you don’t have to worry about the poor road conditions that winter often brings.
Of course, even when conditions are perfect, riders still have to worry about the other motorists around them. At the end of the day, you take a risk every time you hop on your hog.
Although there’s no surefire way to avoid getting into a motorcycle crash, there are steps you can take to reduce the severity of any injuries you might sustain should you get into one. Some of these steps—like wearing an approved helmet—are required by law, while others are optional but strongly recommended.
If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle accident because of a drunk or distracted driver, contact The Law Office of Brian K. Branch, PC. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills and other damages. Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free case evaluation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Albuquerque.
Read on to learn four kinds of safety gear that will help you reduce the risk of sustaining serious injuries while riding:
- Helmet
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, researchers estimate that helmets saved more than 1,700 lives in 2015. Since helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent and the risk of death by 37 percent, riders should make it a point to wear one every time they hit the road.
- Boots
Even motorcycle accidents that occur at low speeds can cause serious injuries, especially when the bike topples over on top of the rider. Protect your feet and ankles from the weight of a falling motorcycle by wearing sturdy ankle boots whenever you ride.
- Jacket
You should wear a motorcycle jacket when you hit the road, regardless of the temperature. Look for one that is designed specifically for riding and has been reinforced in the back, elbows, and chest for optimum protection.
- Gloves
The hands and wrists are especially vulnerable to road rash and broken bones because people naturally throw their arms out in order to break a fall. Protect your hands in the event of a collision by wearing durable riding gloves.
The safety gear mentioned above will minimize your risk of sustaining debilitating injuries should you get into a collision. You can reduce the risk of getting into an accident in general by taking a defensive riding class, purchasing a bike that is small enough for you to maneuver well in challenging conditions, and avoiding traveling in motorists’ blind spots.
If you were hurt in a crash despite following the above tips, you may be able to hold the other driver liable for your economic and non-economic losses. Contact The Law Office of Brian K. Branch, PC to determine if you have a valid claim.
Our primary areas of focus include serious personal injury, premises liability, products liability, oilfield accidents, wrongful death, and insurance bad faith. Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney in Albuquerque. You can learn more about motorcycle crashes in New Mexico by visiting USAttorneys.com.