Any motorcyclist will tell you that riding a motorcycle is one of the most exhilarating experiences out there. But riding comes with a serious downside - the risk of being hurt in a serious motorcycle accident. So how can you protect yourself from being seriously injured in a motorcycle crash? Preparation is key, and having the proper motorcycle gear can make all the difference.
Most motorcyclists ride defensively. Even so, when another motorist fails to act with due care and causes a motorcycle crash, injuries to the motorcyclist can be severe. Proper motorcycle gear can mean the difference between a minor injury and death.
Proper motorcycle gear can be broken down into three categories based on the parts of the body they protect. Gloves and boots protect the hands, feet, arms, and legs from cuts, lacerations, and crushing injuries. Pants and jackets protect the body and trunk from scrapes, cuts, lacerations, and broken bones. The helmet protects the rider’s head from cuts, lacerations, and impact injuries.
In the event of a crash, the natural reaction is to put out your hands to catch and protect yourself, which can lead to road rash and broken bones. Wearing armored gloves with hard knuckles and plastic sliders protects your hands if they slide across the pavement and can stabilize the wrist and minimize the risk of a fracture.
Similarly, a high-strength, full-length boot that extends from the foot to the shin will protect the feet, ankles, and lower leg and prevent injuries that can occur if your leg is caught under the bike.
A motorcycle jacket and pants should be made from a sturdy material like nylon, denim, or leather that can withstand abrasion and shield the body during a fall from a moving bike. The jacket and pants should offer protection from weather conditions you might encounter while riding, and should be durable enough to protect the body in the event of a crash. Choosing a jacket or pants in bright colors can increase visibility and reduce the likelihood of being struck by another motorist.
Motorcycle helmets significantly reduce the risk of injuries and death caused by head trauma. The helmet should fit comfortably and should not impair the rider’s hearing or vision.
Some motorcycle helmets are equipped with a built-in visor to protect the rider’s eyes. If your helmet does not have a visor, consider wearing protective eyewear like glasses, a shield, or a pair of goggles. If you have tinted lenses for riding in the sun, be sure you also have a clear set for riding at night.
Choosing proper motorcycle gear is important for every rider. The right gear will make you more comfortable while riding and provide protection in the event of a crash.
Despite wearing proper motorcycle gear and riding defensively, riders can still be seriously injured in a motorcycle crash. Common injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash include traumatic brain injury, concussion, nerve damage, road rash, fractures and broken bones, amputation, disfigurement, permanent disability, and, in the most severe cases, death. Injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash often require extensive medical treatment, and an injured victim can lose considerable time from work.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for:
After a motorcycle accident, your focus should be on healing and recovery. Let Michigan Injury Attorneys help by investigating your claim and gathering evidence about the crash, including investigative reports, 911 calls, witness statements, surveillance videos, and photos of the accident scene and property damage. We will fight to convince the other driver’s insurance company to accept responsibility and compensate you for your injuries.
Learn more about our firm and read reviews from other clients, then contact the motorcycle accident injury lawyers at Michigan Injury Attorneys today.
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