Slick tarmac, deceptive puddles, and limited visibility – rainy days introduce a slew of new hazards to the roads. Research has shown that your chances of crashing increase drastically when it pours. In this article, the contributors at Bikers Have Rights discuss how to stay safe when driving a motorcycle in the rain.
Were you injured in a motorcycle accident while driving in bad weather? Brad Tabakin is a motorcycle accident lawyer with decades of experience representing bikers from all walks of life. He’s also a motorcycle enthusiast who has ridden across the US on his collection of Harley Davidson bikes.
To speak to Brad, contact us today at 877-333-0300. And don’t forget to sign up for our Facebook group to keep up with the latest news in the Bikers Have Rights community.
4 Safety Tips for Riding in Rainy Weather
Whether you’re a commuter, hobbyist, or just running errands, sometimes you’ll find yourself riding in rainy weather. Here are a few ways to stay safe when the roads are slick:
1. Avoid Puddles
They seem shallow, but even small puddles can conceal hidden hazards. From deep potholes to tire-puncturing debris (glass, rocks, you name it), riding through a puddle could turn a rainy day into miserable months. If you can’t ride around the waterworks, slow to a steady speed and focus on keeping the bike upright.
2. Safe Following Distance
Slick roads are a rider’s worst enemy. Why? When the streets are wet, your tires lose grip, and – if you have to hit the brakes – it takes longer to come to a stop. As a result, we recommend maintaining a safe following distance of between 3 to 5 seconds from other vehicles. This will give you enough time to react to changes in speed and make an emergency stop if necessary.
3. Wear Goggles
Some of the best motorcycle helmets sport a visor, but in rainy weather this fixture can often fog-up and obscure your view of the road ahead. A pair of goggles (paired with your trusty protective headgear) will shield your eyes without clouding your vision.
4. No Sudden Movements (Unless Absolutely Necessary)
It’s estimated that 1 in every 4 traffic deaths is the result of an accident in inclement weather. Most often, riders (and motorists) underestimate the dangers of wet tarmac. Sudden movements can cause your bike to lose traction with the road and send you skidding towards disaster. Our advice: maintain a consistent speed and stick to the posted speed limit. Avoid making dangerous maneuvers or sudden movements that could cause your ride to hydroplane.
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you were injured in an accident while riding in the rain, it’s in your best interest to contact a personal injury lawyer without delay. Brad Tabakin is a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer who has made it his life’s mission to fight for and defend biker’s rights. He will assess your case to determine the value of your claim and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact 877-333-0300 today to speak to Brad about your motorcycle accident case.