Avoid Common Road Hazards on Your Motorcycle
Author: Auger Law | April 26th, 2017
When you are out riding your motorcycle, chances are that you are paying close attention to the behaviors of others around you. You worry about other vehicles seeing you, and you stay out of the blind spots of truckers. Do you worry about road hazards?
Most motorcyclists know to avoid potholes and loose gravel, but those who are less experienced might not consider other hazards that are on the roads. Read on to discover how to stay safe on your bike when out on the open road.
1. Slick Surfaces
When rain or snow falls, it makes sense that the roads may be slick. Some don’t consider that slick roads can also be caused by heavy fog or even early-morning dew. Regardless of the reason for the slippery roadway, there are things you can do to maneuver safely.
The first thing you want to do on slick surfaces is reduce your speed. It will take you longer to stop when the roads are slick so slow down. Your front brake is responsible for most of the braking power of your motorcycle, but on slick surfaces you should use both brakes equally.
As far as your path of driving, stick to the areas that are most clear. Water tends to build up on the side of the road and, in many areas, the center of the lane can be just as dangerous. Keep this in mind when you are deciding where to drive.
2. High Winds
Strong winds can come up suddenly and be difficult to drive through. A strong gust of wind can push your bike over faster than you can react. When the winds are high, follow these tips to stay upright.
Stick to the side of the lane that allows you the most room to maneuver. Stay far enough behind and away from other vehicles that you can steer safely should you be pushed by the wind. Sit upright on your motorcycle, hold onto both hand grips, and keep your feet firmly planted on the pegs. If you have the ability to do so, steer into the wind.
3. Riding Over Objects
You may find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to ride over an object in the road. If this is the case, hold onto the hand grips, keep your front wheel straight, and rise up slightly. These things will help you absorb the shock of driving over the object.
There are some things that you cannot prepare for when you are driving a motorcycle. Weather can change quickly and hazards can appear seemingly out of nowhere. You will be better prepared for these things if you know how to react ahead of time.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Charlotte or the surrounding areas, reach out to our team of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys for a free case evaluation. We will advise you of your legal options and help you make the best decisions for your unique situation.
