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Common Road Hazards for Motorcycles

As a motorcyclist, you are at risk for injury every time you ride. Many common road hazards can cause accidents, and it’s important to be aware of them. This blog post will discuss some of the most common road hazards for motorcycles. We’ll also provide tips on avoiding these hazards and staying safe while riding.

At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we are heavily involved in the community of amazing bikers throughout the Tampa Bay area and all of Florida. We want motorcycle enthusiasts to ride safe and stay legal. Becoming a safe rider is the best way to ensure your safety and avoid an accident.

Railroad Crossings

When you cross a railroad track, your tires could get stuck, leading to you being thrown from your bike. Crossings become especially dangerous when the wood between the grooves gets wet or icy. This causes the wheels on the motorcycle to lose traction, making it difficult to maintain control of your bike. If you are not comfortable crossing a railroad track, go the opposite direction or seek an alternate route.

Debris on the Road

Debris is one of the most common roadway hazards motorcyclists may come across. Debris can be anything from rocks and gravel to branches and leaves. It’s important to avoid riding over debris, as it can damage your motorcycle or cause you to lose control.

Edge Break Between Lanes

This is a common hazard on highways and interstates, and it can be very dangerous. The edge break is the space between the lane markings, and it can cause your motorcycle to lose traction. It’s important to stay in your lane when riding, and you should avoid riding over the edge break. If you must ride over the edge, break, use caution, and go slowly.

Animals

Another hazard that motorcyclists face is animals on the road. This is a common hazard in rural areas, and it can be very dangerous. Animals can be hard to see, and they may not behave predictably. It’s important to be cautious when riding in areas where animals are present. If you think you will hit a small animal, slow down. Swerving to avoid the animal may result in a worse collision with a tree or oncoming vehicle.

Wet Roads

Wet roads can be very slippery, and they can cause hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs on any wet surface but is most dangerous when the rain begins to mix with oil residue on the roadway. When a car starts to hydroplane, the driver should hold their steering wheel in the same direction the car is sliding. Motorcyclists do not have as much control over their bikes. When it is raining or snowing, keep track of the car ahead so that you may anticipate any icy patches or black ice.

Pedestrians

Pedestrians can be unpredictable, and they may not see you coming. It’s also easy for pedestrians to underestimate how dangerous moving vehicles can be. Sometimes they may try to cross the street while there is oncoming traffic. It’s important to use caution when riding near pedestrians, and you should always yield the right-of-way to them.

Passenger Vehicles

A passenger vehicle is much larger than a motorcycle, which can be very dangerous. Keep a safe distance from cars, and make sure to position your bike so the driver can see you in his or her side mirrors.

Construction Zones

Construction zones are hazardous for motorcyclists because of the increased traffic and obstacles. It’s important to use caution when riding through a construction zone, and you should obey the speed limit and other traffic signs and signals.

Malfunctioning Traffic Lights

Malfunctioning traffic lights can be hazardous, and you should always use caution when approaching them. If the light is not working, treat it as a stop sign.

How to Stay Safe on Your Motorcycle

The best way to avoid accidents is to be aware of your surroundings and ride defensively. You should always be on the lookout for potential hazards. If you see a pothole or debris in the road ahead, slow down and change lanes.

In addition to being aware of your surroundings, you should also be sure to ride within your abilities. Don’t push yourself beyond your limits, and always ride within the posted speed limit.

Finally, be sure to wear proper safety gear when you ride. This includes a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, boots, and a reflective vest or jacket. Wearing proper safety gear can help you stay safe in an accident.

Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

If you were injured or your loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, reach out to the personal injury team at The Fran Haasch Law Group. With over 20 years of experience, we can handle even very complex and serious claims. Our Clearwater motorcycle accident attorneys work with medical experts and accident reconstruction specialists to determine how the accident occurred, who is liable, and the full extent of your injuries. From there, our team fights to help you recover the maximum compensation you are owed.

For an evaluation, call us at (727) 784-8191 or contact us online today. We serve clients in Clearwater and throughout the Greater Tampa Bay Region and beyond.

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