MOTORCYCLISTS: HOW TO SAFELY NAVIGATE IN HEAVY TRAFFIC
On behalf of Hyland Law Firm, LLC posted in Kansas City motorcycle accident attorney on Tuesday, December 17, 2013.
Nobody wants to find themselves on the highway in a sea of heavy traffic. Driving in heavy traffic is not only an unwelcome inconvenience it is also much more difficult than driving on a clear roadway. Heavy traffic requires a motorist's full attention and utmost concentration. A motorist that is not fully engaged in driving while on a congested roadway puts him or herself in danger of becoming involved in an accident. While this is true for all motorists, congestion can prove to be an even more precarious of a situation for motorcyclists. To ensure safe travels while navigating traffic, motorcyclists should keep in mind the following tips:
Do not weave in and out of traffic: It may be tempting to weave in, around or between much larger cars and passenger trucks to avoid slowing down or coming to a complete stop. However, this behavior can be quite dangerous. Other motorists can have difficulty anticipating your actions and could accidently swerve into you.
Check your mirrors and then check again: In heavy traffic vehicles are moving more slowly, but this is no excuse not to check your mirrors before changing lanes. All vehicles including motorcycles have blind spots. To make sure that it is safe for you to change lanes, after checking your mirrors, take a quick glance over your shoulder before moving over.
Prepare for a quick escape route: Heavy congestion often means frequent sudden stops which can be particularly hazardous for a motorcycle. To avoid being involved in a wreck, keep to either the left or the right of the car in front of you. This way in the event the vehicle in front of you comes to an abrupt stop, you have an escape route.
Always follow the two second rule: Especially in heavy traffic you do not want to be following too closely behind another vehicle. Allows adhere to the two second rule or leaving a gap of at least two seconds between you and the car in front of you.
Be highly visible: One of the problems with being the smallest vehicle on the road is that it is difficult for motorists of other vehicles to see you. Although you cannot make your bike larger, there are things you can do to make sure that you are visible to other motorists. A brightly colored helmet and/or jacket can help you be more noticeable to motorists and pedestrians alike. Be sure to also drive with your high beams on during the day.
Be prepared to brake: While in heavy traffic is the last place you want to be scrambling to find the brake. Instead be prepared and keep at least a finger or two on the brake lever to allow for quicker braking. Although you should be prepared to brake at a moment's notice, do not be afraid to utilize the maneuverability of a bike to avoid a sticky situation. A quick dash onto the shoulder or other open space is often far preferable to becoming another car's hood ornament.
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries after being involved in a motorcycle accident, you need a seasoned personal injury attorney to fight for your rights. For more than twenty years, attorney Charles Hyland has helped motorcycle injury victims obtain the compensation they deserve. The Hyland Law Firm understands how overwhelming a motorcycle accident can be both personally and financially. Contact the Hyland Law Firm, LLC today to schedule a free and completely confidential consultation. At the Hyland Law Firm, LLC we look forward to providing you with superior legal services.