Spring Riding Tips for Motorcyclists

Warmer days inspire people to spend more time outdoors, and many motorcyclists try to get their first ride before Memorial Day. Before you pull the bike out of the garage, however, you should spend some time preparing for your ride. Many motorcycles need to be serviced after having sat for months, and it never hurts to brush up on your skills after a long winter spent on the couch. These steps can reduce the risk of an accident. If the unfortunate happens and you are hurt in a collision, then contact Hoy Law to speak with an attorney.

How to Prepare for the Spring

The easiest way to reduce accidents is to make sure your motorcycle is in good working condition. A motorcycle that has worn-out parts or is falling apart is a clear danger to riders. You could easily get into an accident and, even worse, be found at fault. That means you could end up having to pay compensation to anyone you hurt, including pedestrians or other motorists.

We recommend checking the following:

• Ensure proper inflation. Rubber can crack during the winter, and you might need to get a fresh set of tires.
• You want the motorcycle to run smoothly and not stall out on the road.
• Headlights are critical at night and during inclement weather. Sunset still comes relatively early in April and May; you don’t want to be caught out on the road without working headlights.
• You’ll need to have the brakes checked. If you don’t know what to look for you can take your motorcycle to a mechanic.
• Rust and corrosion. Rust can set in and eat away at critical components on a motorcycle, rendering the bike dangerous.

Now is a good time to check whether your motorcycle is still a comfortable size. Riding a motorcycle that is too large or small can reduce a motorcyclist’s control. As people age, they might slowly gain or lose weight or even lose inches of height. Over time, a motorcycle that was the perfect fit could no longer work for them.

We also encourage riders to consider brushing up on their skills by taking a motorcycle safety course. You can improve or sharpen skills related to handling, turning, and braking. Advanced courses focus on emergency maneuvers and riding with reduced traction. Although South Dakota’s snow melts in the spring, you can also still end up with early-morning ice and rain. Now is the time to improve your skills on a motorcycle.

Hurt in a Crash? Reach Out to Hoy Law for a Consultation

Motorcycle accidents are far too common in South Dakota. Even the most experienced riders can get into collisions due to distracted, fatigued, or negligent drivers. If you are injured, contact Hoy Law to speak with a Sioux Falls motorcycle accident lawyer. Hoy Law has more than 20 years of experience in personal injury, representing clients from all walks of life. We have won million-dollar settlements for many clients and encourage you to contact our office to schedule your free consultation.

Source:

southdakotasafetycouncil.org/Online/Online/Safety/Motorcycle-Safety.aspx