Motorcycle riders who live in Hickory, NC, know that the roads can be pretty dangerous. Whether riding on the highways or back roads, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions while riding. The lawyers at The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor have compiled some motorcycle safety tips for Hickory, NC riders:
Wear Protective Gear
Motorcycles do not provide as much protection for riders as passenger vehicles. One of the most important safety tips for motorcyclists is always to wear the proper safety gear. Getting on a bike is always a safety risk, and often due to the other drivers on the road.
North Carolina law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear DOT-approved helmets. This will help prevent a traumatic brain injury. However, riders should also wear gloves, boots, and other protective clothing.
Be Visible
Another important tip is to be as visible as possible when riding your motorcycle. Wear bright colors and make sure your bike has working headlights and taillights.
Ride Defensively
One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is to ride defensively. This means being aware of your surroundings and looking out for other drivers who may not see you.
Follow the Rules of the Road
It’s important to follow all of the rules of the road when riding a motorcycle. This includes obeying the speed limit, not riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and using turn signals.
Make Sure Your Motorcycle Is in Tip Top Shape
Before heading out on the road, it’s important to make sure that your motorcycle is in good working condition. This means checking the tires, your brake light, side stand, oil, and other fluids.
Keep Track of the Weather
Like most southeastern states, North Carolina’s weather is unpredictable. There may be cold weather conditions in the morning but a significant increase in temperature by the afternoon. That’s why motorcyclists must keep an eye on the forecast before heading out.
Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
One of the best ways to stay safe on the road is to take a motorcycle safety course. These courses teach riders how to safely operate their motorcycles and try to avoid accidents. To operate a motorcycle in North Carolina, an individual must have a motorcycle learner permit or a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. To apply for a motorcycle endorsement, you must pass a written test and a road skills test. Some community colleges offer a Basic Rider Course which is a 20-22 hour course designed for new riders or re-entry riders. Upon successful completion of the BRC, you will be issued a skills waiver card for the North Carolina DMV, which means you will not have to take the DMV’s motorcycle riding test like a car or truck driver, a motorcycle rider should always stay updated on how to drive their motorcycle safely. A great way to do this is by seeking out continuing education programs, especially if you experience difficulty riding.
With these North Carolina motorcycle safety tips, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the roads of Hickory, NC. Remember always to ride defensively, be visible, and follow the rules of the road. And most importantly, make sure you’re wearing the proper safety gear.
Need a Lawyer? Contact a Hickory, North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Sometimes accidents are inevitable. Whether caused by driver negligence or weather conditions, it is important to get help from an experienced attorney if you were in a motorcycle accident. The Hickory attorneys at The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor have years of experience handling personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents.
We value the attorney-client relationship and will work tirelessly to protect your rights, and we will do everything we can to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
