Motor Cycle Accidents
Defensive Riding Tips
As a motorcyclist you are the most vulnerable road user. Despite only forming 1% of all road traffic, motorcyclists account for one in five of road deaths and serious injuries.
The most common causes of accidents involving motorcyclists include;
- Failure to negotiate bends of rural A roads
- Collisions at junctions
- Collisions whilst overtaking
- Rider losing control without any other vehicle being involved
The most common accident type, and unfortunately the ones involving the most serious injuries, involve other vehicles crossing the motorcyclists path to enter or leave a side road or private drive or entering a roundabout in the path of the motorcyclist, when the motorcyclist has the right of way. Drivers of vehicles are often unaware of a motorcyclists presence and it is necessary for motorcyclists to become defensive drivers in order to avoid becoming causalities.
It is therefore important that you;
- Plan ahead when approaching junctions. Be aware of other vehicles waiting to enter the main road/roundabout and be ready to take evasive action
- Ensure that you are visible to other drivers
- Anticipate that other drivers may not have seen you and be prepared for their actions
- Do not overtake near side roads and always err on the side of caution
- Be aware of oncoming vehicles indicating to cross your path
Top Tips for Bike Maintenance
Machine
When your bike has not been used for a long time, a thorough check is essential including brakes and fluid, tyre conditions and pressures, fork seals, oil, coolant, chain and sprockets and lights
Essential checks for brakes and tyres
It is recommended that brake fluid is changed on a frequent basis.
Tyre condition is of prime importance and should be checked regularly.
A full service at the beginning of the spring season is ideal to get your bike ready for the months ahead.
Equipment
Your helmet is the most important piece of equipment. Ensure that helmet webbing and visors are replaced if any damage has occurred.
No matter how short your journey, ensure that you wear your protective equipment.
What to wear
The only protection afforded to a motorcyclist is the shell of the garment he chooses to wear and therefore the importance of choosing to wear a product that is designed and manufactured correctly and to the highest performance standards is crucial and cannot be overstressed.
First and foremost check for the CE symbol placed on all products sold in Europe demonstrating that they meet the requirements of the latest safety legislation. Also check for reference to EN 1621-1 and EN13595 to ensure;
- A full lining that is not attached to the outer shell at the shoulders, elbows, knees and bum. The linings are generally made from cotton or nylon.
- A double thickness outer shell material in high risk areas.
- Impact protection tested to EN1621-1
- Several rows of stitching in all structural seams with protected/covered rows to protect from sunlight and general abrasion which can weaken the seams prior to an accident
Adequate adjusters at the ankle and wrist cuffs to ensure that the garment remains in place during an accident and does not expose your flesh to the road surface
FOR ACCIDENT OR LEGAL ADVICE CALL
FREEPHONE 0808 160 5010
Click here for our Motorcycle Accident Checklist