Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riders: Navigating Traffic with Confidence

Motorcycle safety is crucial, as riders are among the most vulnerable users on the open road. While enjoying your ride and embracing the freedom these bikes offer, it’s important to stay vigilant about your safety at all times, especially in traffic. Accidents involving motorcycles can have severe consequences due to the biker’s greater exposure compared to occupants of cars and trucks.

Following safety tips and best practices ensures that you can navigate through traffic with confidence and reduce the chances of collisions. At Schofield & Green Law, we advocate for safe riding practices and support riders who have been harmed due to the negligence of others.

Here are key safety tips, legal recommendations, and expectations to help you navigate traffic with confidence and reduce your chances of a collision.

Wear the Right Gear

Wearing the right gear is your first line of defense in the event of an accident. This includes:

• A DOT-approved helmet
• A properly fitting helmet
• Armored jackets and pants (knees, shoulders, elbows)
• Full-finger gloves
• Durable riding boots
• Eye protection or a helmet with a visor

Your gear should fit properly and offer high visibility. Riders who wear bright or reflective clothing are far less likely to be overlooked by drivers. Proper gear that fits correctly protects riders in the case of an accident or an emergency. Stay protected with these recommendations. 

 

Be Seen: Visibility Saves Lives

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles. To stay seen:

• Wear reflective vests or bright colors.
• Use your headlight at all times—even during the day.
• Avoid riding in blind spots, especially near large vehicles such as trucks and buses.
• Flash your brake lights when slowing down abruptly.
• Stay visible to avoid an accident in busy traffic.

Enhancing visibility can significantly reduce the risk of being involved in an accident while driving through traffic, as other drivers are more likely to spot you in time. Wear bright-colored clothing or reflective materials, especially at night.

 

Maintain Safe Following Distances

Leave enough space between you and the car in front to allow for sudden stops. A good rule of thumb is a 3-second gap in clear weather, and longer if the roads are wet or visibility is low.

This gives you time to react and avoid rear-ending another vehicle, one of the most common scenarios in motorcycle accidents.

 

Ride Defensively, Not Aggressively

Defensive riding means expecting the unexpected. Always assume that drivers do not see you and may make abrupt and unsafe moves. This includes:

• Watching for sudden lane changes
• Preparing to stop quickly
• Keeping escape routes in mind

This mindset can save your life, especially in unpredictable traffic situations. Anticipating the actions of other drivers and preparing for unexpected situations is key so that you are capable of those split-second reactions if they become necessary.

 

Follow Traffic Rules

Adhering to road regulations, such as speed limits, traffic signs, signal use, or right-of-way rules, promotes safety for everyone on the road. An awareness and adherence to traffic laws help prevent collisions. It also ensures that, if an accident does occur, you aren’t deemed at fault due to a traffic infraction. Remember, motorcyclists must obey the same traffic laws as other vehicles. Following the laws protects and strengthens your case if you are ever involved in a crash caused by another driver.

 

Anticipate Hazards

Traffic isn’t the only danger on the road. Keep your eyes open for:

• Potholes and debris
• Oil or gravel slicks
• Wet leaves or painted lines
• Distracted or erratic drivers

Also, be mindful of road construction and changing weather conditions, especially in the Colorado Springs area, where road conditions can change quickly.

A proactive approach can help you avoid dangerous situations while driving in traffic. Always keep an eye out for potential hazards that could affect your ride, such as obstacles in the roadway or drivers behaving unpredictably.

You should always be aware of the blind spots other drivers may have as well. Motorcyclists can easily disappear into these areas, particularly next to or just behind larger vehicles, such as trucks or buses.

Use Technology Safely

Technology can enhance your safety when used correctly:

• Pre-program your GPS before the ride.
• Use Bluetooth headsets for turn-by-turn directions.
• Consider apps that alert you to accidents or traffic slowdowns.
• Avoid the temptation to look at your phone or GPS while riding. 

With advancements in technology, it’s now easier to use GPS and navigation tools for trip planning. These resources can help you identify the safest routes to your destination and keep you informed of traffic conditions that might require extra caution or a change in route. Each day, 1,153 people are injured due to distracted driving. Ensure you are keeping your eyes on the road and avoid these common distractions. 

Don’t Weave in and Out of Traffic

It may be tempting to cut through traffic, especially on congested roads. But weaving between cars:

• Increases your chances of being sideswiped
• Startle other drivers.
• It is illegal in many areas, including Colorado.
• Ride predictably. Stay in your lane, signal your intentions, and exercise caution when making lane changes.

The agility of motorcycles can make it tempting to weave between lanes or around other vehicles, especially in slower-moving traffic. However, this practice can be dangerous as it makes your movements unpredictable to other drivers who may not see you until it’s too late. Constant lane changes increase the risk of collisions with cars that suddenly turn or change lanes themselves without expecting a motorcycle to be nearby.

 

Never Drive Under the Influence

Drugs and alcohol impair your coordination, reaction time, and decision-making. DUI laws apply to motorcyclists just as they do to drivers of other vehicles. In 2015, 33% of riders killed in Colorado motorcycle accidents were under the influence. 

Riding under the influence not only risks your life, but it can also eliminate your ability to recover damages in a personal injury claim.

 

Choose the Right Motorcycle for Your Skill Level

Selecting the right bike is one of the most critical safety decisions a rider can make. The size, weight, and power of your motorcycle should match your experience level and intended use.

Here are a few key considerations when selecting your motorcycle:

1. Skill Level: Beginners should start with a lighter, more manageable bike with a moderate engine size.
2. Bike Type: Consider where and how you’ll be riding. Sport bikes are fast and agile but may not offer the stability or comfort needed for long-distance rides. Touring bikes provide comfort for longer trips, while dual-sport bikes are built for both on- and off-road use.
3. Seat Height and Fit: You should be able to sit comfortably with both feet flat on the ground and easily reach all controls.
4. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Look for bikes equipped with ABS. Studies have shown that ABS significantly reduces the risk of fatal crashes by helping you maintain control during sudden stops.
5. Always Test Ride When Possible: Always test ride, as every rider has a different feel and preference. The Motorcycle should feel like an extension of your body, not something you’re fighting to control.

Choosing the right motorcycle ensures you ride with greater confidence and control. A well-matched bike ensures you can enjoy your ride and respond adequately to potential dangers.

 

When an Accident Occurs: Know Your Legal Options

Even the most cautious and experienced motorcycle riders can be vulnerable to accidents. When an accident occurs, knowing your legal rights and next steps is crucial. What you do immediately after a crash can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation from the accident. 

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, take these critical steps:

1. Document the Scene: Use your phone to take clear photos of the accident site, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
2. Contact the Police: Always report the accident to the local law enforcement agency. An official police report can serve as valuable evidence in your injury claim. Be honest and factual when giving your statement, but avoid speculating about fault.
3. Get Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, symptoms of serious injuries like concussions or internal trauma may not appear right away. A prompt medical evaluation creates a record of your condition tied directly to the accident.
4. Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid apologizing or making statements that could be misinterpreted as an admission of guilt. Let the investigation determine liability.
5. Call a Lawyer First: Before speaking with insurance companies or signing any documents, contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in motorcycle accident cases.

 

 

Choose A Personal Injury Attorney Who Fights For You

At Schofield & Green Law, our Colorado Springs motorcycle accident attorney is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the full compensation you deserve. Riding a motorcycle brings freedom and excitement, but if you find yourself in an accident due to the negligence of someone else, remember you may have legal recourse. Contact our motorcycle accident lawyer in Colorado Springs today to schedule a free consultation.