Weather Conditions That Cause the Most Motorcycle Accidents
Riding your motorcycle down the open road is an experience like no other. The sense of speed and the allure of total freedom are incredible, but using these vehicles also comes with an element of risk, particularly when the weather turns for the worse. No matter your level of motorcycle expertise, inclement weather and poor road conditions pose a serious danger to your health and the health of other drivers on the road. Read on to learn which weather events lead to the most motorcycle accidents.
Wet Roads
Rain is the most frequent example of how weather impacts your ability to safely operate a motorcycle. Wet pavement reduces tire traction, making turns more treacherous and increasing the distance needed to safely stop your bike. The first 30 minutes following a light shower are especially dangerous due to the combination of oil and water on the road, which creates slippery patches (primarily near intersections) where the chance of a crash occurring. Rain puddles can also hide potholes that lead to a sudden loss of balance, which could lead to an accident. Precipitation during the winter months exacerbates all of these problems, as snow flurries or ice become severe impediments to riding a motorcycle.
Strong Winds
A heavy gust of wind can literally push you into a serious incident. Strong winds can cause a motorcycle to drift off-course, potentially into another lane or off the road entirely. Such effects are most likely when riding near large trucks or on bridges, open roads, or highways. Lighter bikes or those with prominent side fairings are the most susceptible to strong winds. Motorcycle riders must learn to adapt to imperfect conditions by leaning into the wind or slowing down to minimize the chance of a crash, but in severe circumstances, it's better not to ride your motorcycle at all.
Fog/Low Light
Dense fog that obscures your view of the road and other drivers increases the chances of damaging collisions taking place. This and other low-light weather conditions limit your ability to be aware of your surroundings and make it harder for you to track other vehicles, spot upcoming hazards, or judge distances until it is too late.
Glare From the Sun
Everyone understands how a lack of light can be problematic for motorcycle riding, but too much light can also prove to be disruptive. Sun glare is an underestimated cause of motorcycle accidents. The reflection of the light off a surface could blind riders or drivers at the wrong time and cause them to lose control of their vehicle and hurt themselves or bystanders. In general, shifting light conditions during dawn or dusk can make it difficult to know what is happening around you and avoid damaging mistakes.
Tips to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents in Difficult Weather
You can't control the weather, but you can control how you manage the conditions. If you have to ride your motorcycle in substandard weather, here are some ways to reduce the risk of getting in an accident:
Check local weather forecasts and your tires before your ride
Wear high-visibility gear
Use anti-fog sprays on your helmet or visor
Keep your headlight on
Reduce your speed
Increase the following distance
Avoid sudden movements and sharp turns
Use the paths of vehicles ahead of you
Use both brakes evenly
Contact us at Steelhorse Law For All Your Legal Needs
Motorcycle accidents are a shocking experience for anyone unfortunate enough to be involved in one, and that's before you get to the legal ramifications of such events. Motorcycle accident cases can be more complicated than traditional car accident cases, which means it is vital to find professional representation that ensures that you are fully protected and receive the maximum amount of compensation possible. The legal team at Steelhorse Law understands the gravity of these situations and will use our collective experience and passion to sift through the details and craft a defense strategy that meets your needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and see how we will advocate for your rights.
Image credit: // Shutterstock // Standret
