There are still a few weeks of winter left, but temperatures have already started rising throughout Virginia. And with spring just around the corner, many bikers have already brought their motorcycles out of storage and hit the state’s highways and scenic routes.
When riding for the first time after a long winter, you should always check your motorcycle’s critical components, such as tires, brakes, and lights. You should also start off with an easy ride to re-acquaint yourself to getting around on two wheels. But unfortunately, there’s one risk factor of riding that you can’t control or minimize: the actions of other people on the road.
Other drivers are always the biggest risk factor for motorcyclists. And even in the middle of summer when bikers are at their most prominent on Virginia’s roadways, too many drivers still fail to look for them or give them space. The issue is even worse in late winter and early spring when drivers haven’t needed to be on the lookout for bikers nearly as much as they do at other times of year.
Thankfully, you CAN make yourself more difficult to overlook by taking these measures:
- Wearing brightly colored riding gear
- Wearing all the gear, all the time (that means helmet, riding jacket, pants, gloves, and boots)
- Turning your headlights on, even during the day
- Sticking to well-lit highways and roads
- Avoiding riding at night and during inclement weather, such as rain or fog
If you or someone you love is injured by a negligent driver this spring or any other time of year, our Roanoke motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help. Contact Skolrood Law Firm today for a free consultation.
