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While there’s nothing more exhilarating than riding a motorcycle, it also comes with a significant risk of injury. When someone is hurt in a motorcycle accident, they may need extensive treatment that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. But if you’re a rider and follow the safety tips in this article, that could greatly reduce your chances of being hurt.

The attorneys with Sand Law want you to stay safe. But if you’re hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we’ll be here to help. Our lawyers have a great deal of experience in cases similar to yours, and we’ll know how much money you deserve. You focus on recovering from your injury. We’ll focus on helping you obtain full compensation.

Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling 651-291-7263.

Wear Protective Gear

Wearing appropriate protective gear is crucial for minimizing the risk of injury while riding a motorcycle. The most critical piece of gear is a helmet that meets safety standards. A helmet protects your head from severe trauma and can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, including traumatic brain injury, concussions, and skull fractures. Look for helmets approved by recognized organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

In addition to a helmet, wear protective clothing designed specifically for motorcyclists. A sturdy jacket made of abrasion-resistant materials like leather or textile can protect your upper body from cuts, abrasions, and impact. Pants made of similar materials can safeguard your legs.

Use gloves that provide good grip and protection for your hands, as they are often the first body part to touch the ground in case of a fall. Also, wear boots that cover your ankles and offer proper foot support and protection.

Remain Sober, Awake, & Alert

Riding a motorcycle demands the utmost focus and concentration. Operating a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substances that impair your judgment and reflexes is extremely dangerous. Alcohol and drugs can significantly slow your reaction time, impair coordination, and affect your decision-making abilities. Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impact your riding skills. It is always advisable to ride completely sober.

Fatigue is another factor that can impair your riding abilities. Make sure you’re well-rested before getting on your bike, especially for long rides. If you feel tired or sleepy during a ride, take regular breaks, stretch your legs, and hydrate yourself to stay alert and focused.

Learn Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is a mindset and skill set that allows you to anticipate and respond to potential hazards on the road. Here are some key principles of defensive driving for motorcyclists:

• Maintain a safe following distance: Keep a sufficient gap between your motorcycle and the vehicle ahead of you. This allows you to react to sudden stops or hazards without colliding with the vehicle in front.
• Be visible: Wear bright, reflective clothing and use your motorcycle’s headlights to make yourself more visible to other drivers, especially during low-light conditions.
• Stay aware of blind spots: Be aware of the blind spots of other vehicles, especially larger ones. Position yourself in a way that maximizes your visibility to other drivers.
• Use your mirrors frequently: Regularly check your mirrors to stay aware of the traffic around you, including vehicles approaching from behind.
• Signal your intentions: Always use your turn signals to indicate your intentions to other road users. This helps them anticipate your actions and reduces the risk of collisions.
• Be cautious at intersections: Intersections are common locations for accidents. Approach intersections cautiously, scan for potential threats, and proceed only when it’s safe.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority while riding a motorcycle. Following these guidelines and taking appropriate precautions can significantly reduce the risk of mistakes and injuries.

Know The Law

If you’re going to ride in Minnesota, you’ll need to be familiar with our state’s laws. Here are just a few to keep in mind at all times.

• You must either have an endorsement or an instruction permit to ride legally.
• All riders need to have liability insurance. They must also carry proof of insurance while riding.
• You must also wear eye protection, such as goggles, a face shield, or glasses. Having a windshield on your bike isn’t enough.
• You can’t carry passengers if you have an operator’s permit and not a motorcycle endorsement. You also can’t ride at night.
• Riders with a permit must wear a DOT-approved helmet if they’re younger than 18.
• All motorcycles must have their headlights on when on the road. They also must have between 1-4 headlights (not more than four) with high and low beams. Your bike must also have a stop lamp and a yellow or red tail light.
• Minnesota law expressly prohibits lane splitting – the practice of riding between traffic lanes. Also, you can’t be in the same lane as a car or truck.

What To Do If You’re Injured In A Motorcycle Accident

In the unfortunate event of a motorcycle accident, the most important thing to do is to prioritize your health and safety. Get medical help immediately, even if your injuries seem minor, as some may not be immediately apparent. Contact the authorities to report the incident and gather relevant documentation. Collecting evidence, such as photographs of the accident scene and any visible injuries, is also essential.

Should You Hire A Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

If you’ve suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, hiring a motorcycle accident attorney will be a must. An experienced attorney can help you deal with insurance companies and gather evidence. They can also ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact Sand Law To Schedule A Free Case Evaluation

Sand Law is an experienced law firm specializing in personal injury, including motorcycle accidents. If you’ve been hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault and need top-quality legal representation, contacting us for a free case evaluation can provide valuable insights and guidance regarding your potential claim. Our skilled attorneys can assess your case, answer your questions, and provide advice tailored to your situation.

Use our online form or call 651-291-7263 for a free case review.