Motorcycle Accidents: Tips for Motorcyclists Driving on Wet Roads

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Motorcycle Accidents

Anyone who owns a motorcycle will tell you that one of the best things about riding is being in the open air – feeling the sunshine on your face, smelling the trees and flowers – without being confined like you when you drive a car. A motorcycle driver can also attest to the one of the downfalls of riding a bike – the dangerous conditions that arise when that bright sun is suddenly blocked by storm clouds and a downpour begins.

For drivers who do find themselves in that predicament – and if you ride you can be guaranteed it will happen to you sooner or later – there are steps you can take to help ensure that you make it safely home, despite the bad weather.

One of the most important safety tips for driving a motorcycle in wet weather is to remember that no matter how expensive and high-performance the tires on your bike are, there will be a significant decrease in the amount of traction they are able to maintain on the wet road. It is also important to remember that the braking distance of the bike increases on wet roads. The best thing to do is to slow down the speed of your bike. You should also try to maintain as upright a position of the bike as you can, even as you navigate around corners.

The first step you need to take if the weather turns wet is to try to stay dry. Most motorcycle riding advisors recommend that drivers should invest in some kind of wet weather gear to carry with them. And do not pack the rain gear at the bottom of your saddlebag or backpack. Pack it so it is easy to get to in the event of a sudden rainstorm. If it does start clouding up, watch for vehicles coming in the opposite direction to see if they have been using their windshield wipers. If it looks like you are heading into rain, stop and don the gear before you actually are driving in wet weather.

When you are driving in the rain, make sure to increase your following distance and be extra alert for tailgaters. When you know you will be braking shortly, tap your rear brakes to alert the vehicle behind you. It is also a good idea to periodically tap your brakes in order to help remove the rotors of mud and water.

Watch out for any standing water or puddles in the road, as these could actually be potholes. Painted lines and manhole covers on the road can be slippery when wet, so try to avoid driving over them. If the rain becomes too heavy, or visibility becomes too difficult, then be safe. Pull off the road and wait until the storm passes.

Although most motorcyclists obey the rules of the road and follow good safe driving habits, other vehicle drivers do not, putting the safety of motorcyclists at risk. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, contact an experienced Lake County injury attorney to find out what legal recourse you may have.