Motorcyclists need to be extremely careful on the roads, as motorcycle crashes often result in catastrophic injuries or even death. Motorcycles are inherently more dangerous than cars due simply to their lack of external protection, and since motorcycles are so much smaller than regular passenger vehicles, they are not as visible on the road to other drivers.
Stay safe on the road by following these tips for helping to prevent motorcycle accidents.
1. Wear a Helmet
In Georgia, all motorcyclists must wear a helmet, and for good reason. A helmet is the only thing protecting your head in the case of a collision. If you don't wear a helmet, your chances of suffering a catastrophic brain injury drastically increase.
Brain injuries can be devastating, potentially leading to:
- Changes in personality
- Inability to concentrate
- Loss of memory
- Loss of basic motor skills
- Inability to speak coherently
A brain injury victim may end up requiring around the clock home care, which many people cannot afford on their own. If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury from a motorcycle crash, contact Georgia personal injury lawyer Humberto Izquierdo for a free consultation. We may be able to help you get the compensation you need.
2. Drive Cautiously
Taking risks while driving on a motorcycle rarely ends well. Motorcycle drivers should be cautious at all times, staying aware of their surroundings and always being ready to take evasive or defensive action.
One of the most common causes of motorcycle collisions is when a passenger vehicle driver does not see a motorcyclist on their left and turns or merges straight into them. Motorcyclists need to anticipate the movements of other drivers, try to stay visible, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road.
3. Watch for Road Hazards
Other drivers are not the only potential danger to motorcycle riders. Road hazards that a car driver may not even notice can pose risks for someone on a motorcycle. Pay attention to the road, and know how to handle hazards such as:
- Potholes
- Loose gravel
- Fallen leaves
- Uneven roads
- Debris
If you are injured after crashing on a poorly maintained road, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer to help determine fault in your case and see if you may be able to recover damages.
4. Know How to Handle Your Bike
If you're going to ride a motorcycle, you need to have a special motorcycle license. Just having the license isn't enough, though. You should have the training and experience necessary to know how to react in dangerous situations, and how to handle your motorcycle properly. Different bikes will require different handling depending on the situation, and split-second reflexes can mean the difference between a mild or catastrophic injury.
Schedule Your Motorcycle Accident Consultation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash in or around Atlanta, Georgia, don't hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC at 770-888-8901 today to schedule your free consultation. We will help you obtain the maximum compensation possible in your case.
We serve clients in Marietta, Cumming, Atlanta, and nearby areas of Georgia. Our lawyers and staff are all bilingual in Spanish and English, as well.