Safety Measures for Motorcycle Riders in Philadelphia

If someone else’s negligence caused you to get hurt while riding a motorcycle, you may have the right to demand civil compensation for your injuries. However, it is always better to avoid injury and the need for compensation altogether. Luckily, there are many steps you can take as a motorcycle rider to reduce the risk of getting caught up in another person’s wreck.

The following are some of the most impactful safety measures for motorcycle riders in Philadelphia that we recommend you follow to prevent injury. However, if you have already been hurt in a crash caused by a negligent driver, contact Marrone Law Firm, LLC to discuss your recovery options with a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer.

Wear a Safety Helmet

Under Pennsylvania state law, safety helmets are only required for motorcycle riders under the age of 21, who have less than two years of experience riding a motorcycle with a valid operator’s license, or have not completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the state Department of Transportation or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Despite this, wearing a properly fitted, DOT-approved helmet is the simplest and most effective way for motorcycle riders to substantially reduce their risk of suffering life-altering head, neck, and brain damage in a crash. Even if you are not legally required to wear one, wearing a proper helmet is a safety measure that all Philadelphia motorcycle riders should follow to protect themselves from harm.

Wear Bright Clothing That Fits Well

Wearing dark clothing while riding at night—or even during low-light conditions in the daytime—can make it easier for inattentive drivers to fail to notice a motorcyclist and cause a collision as a result. Likewise, loose-fitting clothing can get caught in the machinery of a motorcycle and cause malfunctioning or a wreck. Wearing the right gear goes well beyond just head and eye protection and is an important precaution all Philadelphia motorcyclists should take.

Assume Other Drivers Are Not Paying Attention

Even if a rider is wearing neon colors and following every rule of the road, there are, unfortunately, still plenty of reckless drivers whose negligence behind the wheel can cause an accident. With this in mind, “defensive riding,” or assuming other drivers will be negligent and being extra careful around them as a result, can be a very helpful safeguard for Philadelphia motorcyclists who want to proactively prevent accidents.

Always Have an Exit Route

Sometimes, motorcycle riders simply end up in the wrong place at the wrong time, regardless of how responsible they are. In anticipation of unavoidable, dangerous scenarios, motorcycle riders should do their best to ensure they have a safe direction to move in an emergency and position their bikes to minimize injuries in the event of an accident.

A Philadelphia Attorney Can Help If Motorcycle Rider Safety Measures Fail

All of the safety measures for motorcycle riders in Philadelphia mentioned above are valuable but imperfect ways of preventing another person’s negligence from causing you serious harm. Remember, however, that you can file suit and demand comprehensive compensation after being hurt in a wreck you were not to blame for. Help from a knowledgeable attorney is available in getting the restitution you deserve.

A seasoned lawyer could discuss your legal options and offer preliminary guidance on how to enforce your rights during a private initial meeting. Call Marrone Law Firm, LLC today.