Spring Motorcycle Safety Tips
Motorcycle safety begins with a few simple inspections that you can do when you take your bike out of winter storage. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers understand the challenges that riders face from motorists that fail to properly share the road with bikers.
From our many years of representing riders in motorcycle accident cases, we know that you can improve your chances of recovering a larger damages award when you can demonstrate that you take motorcycle safety seriously.
Check the Fluids and Lubrication
Even if you’ve drained your fuel tank and lines before you stored your bike, check the fuel lines for wear or degradation. Also check the grease bushings and bearings at any Zerk fittings, and apply a thin layer of grease to swing arms and suspension pivot points. Make sure to change the oil and check oil filters and coolers.
Inspect the Electrical System
Install a new battery if the existing battery is more than two or three years old. Check electrical connection points that may be rusty and inspect electrical harnesses, particularly if they run under the seat.
Consider installing a battery tender to maintain the battery’s charge in the event that the electrical system develops a short. Verify that your headlamp, taillights, and turn signals are fully operational.
Pay Attention to Your Comfort
Nothing adds to fatigue more than tired hands when you are on a long ride. Help avoid hand soreness by replacing your grips if they are worn or uncomfortable. Replace your seat if the padding is compressed or the cover is worn. Make sure that the ride is adjusted properly for your personal physique.
Do Not Ignore Your Brakes and Tires
Worn brakes and tires contribute to a large number of motorcycle accidents. Check your tires for uneven wear and tread depth. Inspect wheels for nicks and dents that can cause slow air seepage from your tires. Replace or upgrade your brakes if they are worn down.
Replace Old Personal Safety Gear
Pennsylvania does not have a helmet law, but statistics show that a helmet can reduce the severities of injuries in an accident. If you do have a helmet, know that sun radiation and other environmental factors will degrade the protective abilities of a helmet over time.
Bike helmets should not be used after the seventh anniversary of their date of manufacture or the fifth anniversary of their first use. Replace or repair worn or threadbare riding jackets and pants.
Keep in mind that brighter clothing might make you more visible to drivers, but you cannot assume that a driver will see you solely because you are wearing bright-colored gear.
Consider Enrolling in a Motorcycle Safety Class
You will always be the primary safety system on your motorcycle. Keep your safety skills up to par with annual safety instruction and other regular safety practices and training.
Contact an Attorney When You Suffer Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident
The rolling terrain around Pittsburgh and elsewhere in Pennsylvania offers some of the best riding anywhere in the U.S. That terrain also distracts motorists who interact with bike riders for only a part of the year.
If you or a loved one have been in a motorcycle accident with a negligent driver, call us today to speak with one of our motorcycle accident lawyers. We represent injured riders in dealing with negligent drivers and their insurance companies, both in settlement negotiations and trials to recover damages. We will fight to recover the compensation that you deserve.
Additional Resources
- smf.org: Frequently Asked Questions About Snell and Helmets. https://www.smf.org/helmetfaq
- motorcyclecruiser.com: Tech Tip: Greasing Your Motorcycle. https://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/tech-tip-greasing-your-motorcycle
- roadrunner.travel: Motorcycle Safety Checklist for Spring Riders. https://www.roadrunner.travel/2015/05/27/motorcycle-safety-checklist-for-spring-riders/