For motorcyclists, winter can pose serious risks. Snow, cold weather, icy roads, and early nightfall can make the road very dangerous, heightening the chances of an accident. Many motorcyclists are three-season riders for a reason: to avoid inclement conditions. However, if you do become injured from a motorcycle accident that was not your fault make sure you talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer.
If you do need to ride your motorcycle in winter weather, there are proactive steps that you can take to protect yourself on the open road. Slowing down, investing in high-visibility gear, and performing regular maintenance can go a long way in reducing the risk of an accident.
Prepare Your Bike for Winter Conditions
Most motorcyclists are optimized for three-season use. The fluids, batteries, and other components used in the bike are not usually suitable for winter conditions. Colder weather can make a bike difficult to start. The oil within the motorcycle can thicken as temperatures drop, which can make a bike difficult to maneuver.
Before going out in the winter, take your bike to the mechanic and determine whether you need to replace the battery. Check what oil is in your bike and explore your options for thinner engine oil. Your mechanic can also identify other changes that you should make for the winter.
Get High-Visibility Cold Weather Gear
To prepare for colder conditions, you need warmer riding gear. Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and other adverse effects. Invest in heavyweight jackets, boots, riding gloves, and other accessories to protect yourself on the road.
In the winter, drivers’ visibility can be compromised due to fog, sleet, snow, and darkness. It is also a good idea to purchase brightly colored and reflective gear to help make you more visible to other people on the road.
Slow Down and Pay Attention
Colder weather means less traction and more ice on the roads. What may be a safe speed to ride your bike in the summer could be dangerous and risky in the winter. To keep control of your motorcycle, slow down, keep an eye on the road, and avoid multi-tasking. You want to be as alert as possible so that you can react in case you need to make an emergency maneuver.
Leave Distance Between Other Vehicles
In addition to slowing down, you should also leave more room between your motorcycle and other vehicles in the area. Colder weather can make it difficult to come to a sudden stop when necessary. By giving other drivers more space, you have a longer time to react and can safely come to a stop without skidding.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Speak to an Attorney
While these tips can help prevent a winter accident, you can never control what happens on the open road. If you were involved in a motorcycle collision, you should speak with an attorney right away.
Texas law allows injured motorcyclists to pursue insurance claims or lawsuits against the drivers who are responsible for their accidents. By filing a claim, you can recover financial compensation to help pay for your medical care, lost wages, property damage, and other losses. However, proving your right to recovery is not an easy task.
A lawyer can guide you through the claims process, prove the at-fault driver’s liability, and fight to recover the settlement that you deserve. As soon as possible following your accident, contact a Texas motorcycle accident attorney who can represent your claim.
