As someone who enjoys riding a motorcycle, you know how important it is to be aware of other drivers around you. The appeal of riding a motorcycle is enjoying the freedom of the open road, but unfortunately, others do not always know how to safely share the road. This can lead to accidents with larger and heavier vehicles. These types of collisions often result in serious injuries for those on motorcycles, even when wearing protective gear and taking other precautions.
As a biker, defensive driving is critical. These are actions that can help you stay as safe as possible on the road, and they may even save your life. Other Illinois motorists don’t always drive safely around bikes, respect the rights of bikers or even see bikes when merging, and it is important to be constantly vigilant and aware of the actions of others. Each driver is responsible for making safe choices while behind the wheel.
Steps to driving defensively
As a biker, you are vulnerable to the actions of others, even if you are cautious, vigilant and aware of your surroundings. While you cannot predict and control what others on the road will do, there are steps you can take that will increase safety and make it more likely that you will be able to avoid accidents. Some of these steps include:
- Always wear the appropriate protective gear, including helmet, thick clothing, boots, gloves and goggles. This can lessen the impact of a collision.
- Look around constantly and monitor other vehicles in other lanes and those approaching from cross streets.
- Be confident with your driving and know when you have the right-a-way, but do not drive aggressively.
- Make sure you know your rights and the route you intend to take so that you are completely prepared.
Even with every precaution and the right protective gear, you could still end up as the victim of the reckless or negligent actions of another driver. If you are suffering from injuries after a motorcycle accident, you will benefit from an explanation of the legal options available to you. You may have grounds to pursue financial recovery through a civil claim, which could provide you with the resources you need to pick up the pieces and move forward after a traumatic event.
