Motorcycles are fun to ride, but it’s important to be proactive in keeping yourself safe on the road. Victims of motorcycle crashes often suffer from burns, road rash, head trauma, broken bones, or even paralysis. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 4,667 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2012. Don’t become a statistic. At Wilson Law, P.A., we want you to do all you can to prevent motorcycle accidents.
Obtain a Proper License
In North Carolina, all motorcyclists need to have an endorsement on their license. In order to obtain this endorsement, you need to possess a driver’s license, pass a knowledge test, a vision test and a road test. Learner Permits for motorcyclists are also available if you need practice before taking the road test.
Wear Proper Safety Gear
IIHS states that helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries and death. In North Carolina, all motorcyclists and their passengers are required by law to wear a helmet. The NCDOT also recommends eye and face protection through the use of a face shield and/or goggles. Wearing gloves helps with your grip and control of the handlebars. Clothing that covers your entire body is also recommended.
Maintain Your Motorcycle
All street-legal motorcycles in NC must include:
● Headlights, taillights, turn signals and brake lights
● Front and rear brakes
● Two mirrors
● Horn
Like cars and trucks, motorcycles must also pass a year inspection of all these functions. An anti-lock braking system is also recommended by the IIHS as a means of preventing accidents. Moreover, it’s important that your tires have the proper amount of air in them at all times. Of equal importance is ensuring that your tires aren’t over-inflated.
Be Safe on the Road
It takes skill to ride a motorcycle, so it’s important to ride within your abilities. If you aren’t completely comfortable, stay off busy roads until you have had more practice. Obey all speed limits, stay visible, use proper signals and be sure you leave adequate space in front of you when riding in traffic. Avoid all negligent driving behaviors, and of course, never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking.
Even when taking all precautions, motorcycle accidents can still occur. If you have been injured in an accident and it wasn’t your fault, contact Wilson Law, P.A. for a FREE consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help!