As soon as the snowy and cold Michigan weather turns to perfect sunny temperatures, motorcycle riders around the state know it is time to get back on their bikes. For motorcyclists, the thrill of the open road is too good to pass up. However, with the thrill and excitement of motorcycle season in Michigan, the importance of safety sometimes gets overlooked.
For all riders, there are essential things to consider and have in place before shifting your vehicle into gear and setting off. Keeping proper safety measures in place and having the support of a reputable Okemos motorcycle accident lawyer’s support is always beneficial following an accident. It is known that accidents can strike at any given time, but following the tips listed below can ensure that riders are doing all they can to stay safe on the roads.
1.Have the Proper Insurance
Insurance is a huge and often overlooked aspect of a biker’s safety. It is important to ensure that you, as a driver, are insured to ride a motorcycle and that your motorcycle is also insured. In the state of Michigan, at the very least, you legally must have liability coverage for your motorcycle.
This means you will be covered if you are in an accident. This basic insurance covers the following:
- $10,000 for any property damage stemming from an accident
- $50,000 for a person killed or injured in an accident
- $100,000 for each accident if multiple people get hurt or killed
Motorcyclists can get better insurance plans and coverage, but in Michigan, this is the minimum you must hold. A skilled team of motorcycle accident lawyers from White Law PLLC can help you learn more about the proper types of insurance you should have before riding at the start of the season.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
2.Get Your Tires Changed and Checked Frequently
Due to Michigan’s cold temperatures, inspecting your tires before heading out on a ride is important. These temperatures can cause cracks or flat spots, resulting in accidents. Ensure your tire gauge is accurate and reading correctly to check tire pressure while riding, just to stay safe.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related injuries and fatalities were a leading cause of motorcycle accidents in 2021. These accidents could have been avoided if riders had been negligent in checking their tire pressures. Ultimately, with 11,000 motorcycle accidents each year in the country, it is important to stay on top of all safety measures when the riding season begins.
3.Wear the Necessary Safety Gear
Wearing the proper safety gear while on a motorcycle could be what comes between you and serious, life-changing injuries. Invest in some new equipment if your gear is old or showing signs of wear. Having the proper helmet, gloves, protective clothing, and eyewear is very important.
In Michigan, helmet laws require riders and passengers under 21 to wear helmets. Sometimes, riders over 21 don’t need to wear helmets legally, but it is always best to protect yourself while on the roads.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
4.Make Sure Your Motorcycle Is Properly Maintained
Proper bike maintenance is another very important safety tip for motorcycle riders to remember. Having your motorcycle’s engine looked at, the brakes checked, and the battery replaced can allow you to know that your vehicle is functioning properly. This is especially important if your vehicle is in storage for a long period of time.
Sometimes, you may prep your bike before tucking it away for the winter, which is another great thing to do. But things can happen in the months your vehicle is away in storage, which makes a full-circle check to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Additionally, while checking your brakes, battery, and engine, you can make sure your lights and turn signals are functioning properly. If any of these lights are out or not functioning properly, it is smart to get them fixed before heading out for your first ride of the season.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
5.Know Your Riding Routes
Knowing what your driving route is before setting off could decrease the number of motorcycle accidents. After a long and cold winter, your old routes could be torn up with potholes or road hazards. Inspecting your route before you ride could save you from unforeseen conditions.
This doesn’t mean physically documenting each turn or road you will take; it simply means being aware of changing conditions once spring hits. Additionally, it helps to keep an open ear for various road construction projects or road closures before a ride. All these tips can be beneficial and proactive steps to take before a ride so that your season is a good one.
6.Follow the Rules of the Road
When riding a motorcycle, you are legally required to follow all rules of the road in Michigan. Apart from safety gear laws, motorcycles require a valid license to operate, which is received after undergoing a state driving test. This license needs to be carried at all times in case of an accident or police stop.
Motorcycles must adhere to all stop signs and street signs, similar to other vehicles. Legal consequences could be warranted if a motorcyclist fails to yield, slow down in a school zone, or lane split. Bikers are entitled to full use of road lanes, as are cars, which means that a motorcycle can take up as much space as a vehicle.
But, along with cars, bikers must share the road with other cars and trucks, meaning no lane splitting, driving on the shoulders, or negligent movements. These actions can put other riders and other vehicles on the road at risk for crashes and serious injuries.
Speak with White Law for More Information on Motorcycle Safety in Michigan
Even though there are many things riders can do before hitting the open road, accidents can and will happen. When unforeseen circumstances hit, it can leave motorcycle riders in serious danger with life-changing injuries. If you or someone you know has a passion for riding motorcycles, it is best to take these tips to heart and seek the guidance of a skilled motorcycle lawyer in case of untimely accidents.
At White Law PLLC, our experienced team will be there when a disaster strikes the road or a motorcycle accident occurs. By contacting us as soon as possible, we can schedule your free consultation to speak about the specifics of what happened while riding. Fighting for you is our top priority, which is why we offer clients top-notch legal representation, no matter the situation.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
