At the end of September, one individual died after a collision between an automobile and a motorcycle in north Spokane. At the time that the accident occurred, the motorcyclist was traveling west on East Holland and collided with the side of a car that was pulling out of a parking lot. Due to injuries incurred from the accident, the motorcyclist died. While the driver of the motor vehicle is being cooperative, law enforcement is still investigating exactly how the accident occurred. Spokane law enforcement has commented that the accident should serve as a reminder to motorists to always remain vigilant for any bicyclists, motorcyclists, or pedestrians that might be in the area to decrease the number of accidents that occur. Each year, a large number of motorcycle accidents occur in Washington. In an effort to reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents occurring, this article will discuss some of the important steps that motorcyclists should take to protect themselves on the road.

Avoid Using Medication Before Using a Motorcycle

Alcohol is not the only type of substance that can significantly impair a person's ability to safely use a motorcycle. If you are receiving prescription medication for a medical condition, it is a wise idea to remain aware of the many side-effects that can substantially impair a person's ability to safely use a motorcycle. Discuss the effects of any medications before taking them while using a motorcycle.

Learn How to Properly Break and Stop

Motorcyclists should learn how to properly break and stop. Speeding on a motorcycle can be particularly dangerous, which means that motorcyclists must learn to always obey posted speed limits and never drive too fast for posted conditions. Motorcyclists must also remember that breaking on a motorcycle should always be done with the greatest of ease. When a motorcyclist applies too much pressure to a brake, there is a significant risk that the motorcycle will either flip over or slide, which can result in serious injuries.

Remain Aware of Your Surroundings

It is critical that motorcyclists always remain alert to what is occurring around them. Motorcyclists should either swivel their head to remain alert to anyone around them or look in a motorcycle's mirrors to determine where other vehicles are located on the road.

Wear the Proper Safety Gear

For motorcyclists, it is important to wear helmets when operating a motorcycle. Head injuries that are caused by motorcycle accidents are frequently fatal, even when these accidents occur at low speeds. Motorcyclists should also wear brightly colored clothing even while operating a motorcycle at night so that they will be seen by nearby vehicles.

Contact a Washington Motorcycle Accident Attorney

No matter how hard motorcyclists try, accidents will still occur. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a motorcycle accident and another party is responsible, the legal counsel at West Law Office will help you fight for compensation you deserve. Contact our law office today by calling (509) 993-0748 or completing our easy to complete online form.

(image courtesy of Igor Ovsyannikov)