Safety Tips for California Motorcyclists
Warm, sunny California summers are music to a motorcyclist’s ears. As throngs of riders set out on the winding highways and scenic roads, they clean off their bikes, check fluids and tires, and dust off their helmets. However, motorcycle safety goes far beyond making sure your bike is roadworthy. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reports that more than 80 percent of the country’s reported motorcycle accidents end with the rider dead or injured. To avoid common causes of motorcycle accidents and their disastrous aftermath, it’s important to take a few steps to stay safe when riding.
Motorcycle Safety Courses
Motorcycle safety courses are not only a good idea for riders, they are mandatory in California for anyone under 21 applying for a motorcycle license. The California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CSMP) is a DMV-approved course offered by the California Highway Patrol to educate riders on the essentials regarding safety, handling, and applicable traffic laws for California motorcyclists. Riders over 21 do not need to complete this course when obtaining a license in-state, but it’s always a good idea.
Riding at Your Skill Level
Even if you’ve completed a riding safety course and have been on a motorcycle for years, it’s important you know your limitations and ride according to your skill level. Tricks and stunts look exciting and flashy, but those are often performed only by professionals. Don’t try to go too fast, too extreme, or be too risky when you ride.
Use Common Sense
Riders are at higher risk for injury and death if something goes wrong on the road even considering the best of circumstances. That means it’s critical riders follow the rules of the road and common sense dictates whenever they set out on two wheels. In addition, it’s important that riders remember:
- Avoid riding at dawn, dusk, and in any other conditions with poor visibility
- Always wear all recommended protective gear
- Adjust speed to the weather and road conditions; maintain speed at a reasonable level when those hazards do not exist
- Other drivers may not see you; ride defensively to stay a step ahead of careless motorists
Contact a California Motorcycle Attorney
Motorcycle riding is exhilarating, but it can easily become a nightmare if things go wrong. If you or a loved one were hurt while cruising on two wheels, speak to the experienced California motorcycle attorneys at Daneshrad Law today. Alan Daneshrad has been delivering results for motorcycle accident victims like you and recovering millions of dollars for clients like you. We deliver personalized, aggressive representation that lets you focus on your recovery while we use our team’s knowledge, skill, and resources to prove your claim and get maximum compensation on your behalf. Call us today at (888) 881-3529 or complete our online case evaluation page to schedule your initial case review. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing until we win your case. Let us help you get your life back on track starting today.
