Safe Motorcycle Riding in Tennessee: Not an Option

By Thomas Greer | January 26, 2015

One minute, you are cruising along on your motorcycle enjoying the wind in your face and the beauty of a sunny Tennessee day. The next, an oncoming car turns left in front of you. You cannot avoid hitting it, and you awake later in the ambulance, trying to figure out what happened.

It is clear that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car, but most riders understand this and practice safe techniques when riding. While many motorcycle accidents are caused by something other than the driver’s mistakes, every motorcyclist must be aware of how accidents happen.

The most common causes of motorcycle wrecks include:

  • Head on collisions: Up to 56% of deaths on motorcycles happen when the motorcycle hits head on with another vehicle.
  • Left hand turn hazard: A great number (42%) of all motorcycle accidents happen when a car is making a left hand turn and hits the motorcycle.
  • Lane splitting: When a motorcycle travels between lanes of traffic on the line between them, the chances for an accident greatly increase.
  • Speeding and alcohol abuse: Need we say more?
  • Motorcycles hitting fixed objects: About 25% of motorcycle deaths occur when a motorcycle hits something that doesn’t move.
  • Unskilled riders: There are many training courses for motorcyclists, but not all take advantage of them. When an untrained rider gets on a motorcycle, especially if it is too powerful for him or her to handle, a disaster is in the making.

Many of these accidents can be avoided by practicing motorcycle safety. Here are some tips for avoiding accidents on your bike:

  • Wear a helmet and protective clothing. Helmets save lives. Studies suggest that 37 out of every 100 people who have died in a motorcycle accident would have lived if wearing helmets. Also, wearing eye protection and leather clothing in bright colors can help avoid serious injury.
  • Do not ride without a valid license. Most states require a special license to operate a motorcycle, and getting one includes both paper and skill tests. Getting the license will assure that you have what it takes to ride safely.
  • Know what your skill level is, and get training. Tennessee offers many motorcycle training courses statewide. Take advantage of them.
  • Never drink and ride. It is against the law and very dangerous.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings. Riding a bike takes extreme concentration. Road hazards can pop up in an instant, and seeing them immediately can save your life.
  • Never share a lane or split lanes. Drive legally and cautiously. Stay in your lane, and obey the traffic laws in your area.
  • Keep your motorcycle in top running condition. Frequent checks of brakes, lights, turn signals, tires, and engine performance are key.

If you have suffered injury and loss in a serious Tennessee motorcycle accident, you should consider getting legal advice. The personal injury experts at Bailey & Greer represent clients like you throughout Tennessee. We offer a free consultation and a free book, so you can learn your rights and legal options. Call us toll free today at 901-680-9777.

Posted in Library, Motorcycle Accidents