What Are Some Things You Can Do to Avoid a Motorcycle Accident in Richmond?

Ask any Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer what some of the most dangerous crashes are, and they’ll agree that the answer is motorcycle accidents. When you’re riding on a motorcycle, there’s absolutely nothing to protect your body from the impact. All you have is a plastic helmet. If you’re very careful, you’ll be able to avoid a motorcycle crash. If you’re not that lucky, then you may need to hire an experienced Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer sooner than you think.

Ideally, you won’t have to ever worry about this. If you follow the tips below, you’ll be in a much better position to prevent a motorcycle crash. These accidents tend to leave their victims in really bad physical shape. You could suffer a traumatic brain injury or even a spinal cord injury. Even if you’re lucky, you’ll still suffer a few broken bones and lacerations. This sort of injury requires extensive medical treatment. You won’t be in any position to deal with insurance companies while you’re trying to recover. 

What Are Some of the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

In order to prevent getting into a motorcycle accident, you need to know what some of the most common causes are. The number one reason given by other motorists is that they simply didn’t see the motorcycle. Of course, your motorcycle is smaller than other cars and SUVs. However, people still need to keep an eye on the road. There’s no reason why any driver should fail to see a motorcycle in front of them or behind them. Some of the other common causes of motorcycle crashes in Virginia include:

  • Speeding
  • Distracted driving
  • Drinking and driving
  • Driving your bike while under the influence of drugs
  • Weaving in and out of traffic
  • Rear-end collisions
  • Head-on collisions

Any of these can put you in the hospital. You may require multiple surgeries and long-term physical therapy. That’s why you should retain a Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer to handle the legal side of things. They’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

These Accidents Tend to Be More Dangerous Than Other Types of Crashes

Because there is nothing there to protect you from the impact of a crash, you need to be hyperaware of your surroundings. Thankfully, if the crash is minor, your helmet may help prevent any head trauma. However, your helmet can’t prevent you from being ejected from the bike. Nor can it prevent a spinal cord injury. Given the seriousness of these injuries, your Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer is prepared to fight to get you justice. They’ll demand that you be compensated for any physical injuries you suffer. 

Always Wear Your Safety Gear

One thing you need to do is always wear your safety gear. Virginia law dictates that you must wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. This goes for drivers and passengers. However, that’s not the only reason you should wear it. If you’re involved in any sort of crash, you want as much protection as possible. Some people think they don’t need their helmet if they’re just riding around the block. It doesn’t matter how far you’re going. You need to wear your helmet at all times.

Don’t Go Above the Speed Limit

Since speeding is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents, it’s important that you keep your eye on the speedometer. Don’t go above the speed limit. In fact, it may be a good idea to go a bit under the speed limit. A lot of other drivers complain that motorcycle riders drive way too fast. You don’t want to make it harder for your Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer to prove you weren’t at fault.

Avoid Weaving In and Out of Traffic

Another common complaint of motorists is that motorcycle drivers like to weave in and out of traffic. Even if you don’t personally do this, it’s still a very real bias. When you weave in between lanes, you open yourself up to getting into an accident. You want to stay safe. You also don’t want the court to find that you’re partially at fault for your injuries. This can seriously impact your lawsuit.

Contact a Skilled Richmond Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or your loved one are hurt in a motorcycle accident, call our office immediately. You’re going to need to focus on your recovery. Let an experienced Richmond motorcycle wreck lawyer focus on the legal side of things. Call right away and schedule your free, initial consultation.