Archives for October 2017
A Checklist for Bikers—More Safety Tips from the Open Road
As important as it can be to drive defensively and employ other safe driving practices, it’s just as critical that you don’t go out on the road on a bike that’s not road-ready. Here’s a checklist that you should go through every time you get ready to ride.
Before You Get on the Bike
Some of the most important safety measures come before you ever throw your leg over the bike:
- Check the ground below your motorcycle—Is there anything suspicious on the ground—oil or gas spills or anything that’s fallen off the bike?
- Are all your lights working properly?—Check your headlights, signals and tail lights, including high beams
- Tires—Inspect the tread for signs of wear, and make certain there are no cracks or bulges anywhere
- Fluid levels—Check fluid levels weekly to make certain there are no leaks and that you have ample fluids
After You Get on Your Bike
If everything looks good so far, climb on the bike and test the following:
- Mirrors—Make certain mirrors are clean and free of cracks, and that they are properly adjusted
- Clutch and throttle—Rev the engine and release—the throttle should snap back. Also confirm that the clutch engages smoothly.
- Horn—Make certain it’s working correctly
- Brakes—Before you pull onto the road, check the front and rear brakes (at a slow speed)
Contact Weber & Nierenberg
At Weber & Nierenberg, we bring over 30 years of experience to people in and around San Francisco Bay area who have been injured in a motorcycle accident. We built our practice on a strong commitment to personal service and attention. We’ll take the time to learn the unique aspects of your case, so that we can tailor our representation to get the outcome you want. When you hire us to help you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses, Joe Nierenberg will work directly with you throughout the process.
To set up a free initial consultation with an experienced California motorcycle accident injury attorney, contact Weber & Nierenberg by e-mail or call our office at 1-866-288-6010.
Simple Steps for Keeping You and Your Motorcycle on the Road
There’s nothing in the world that can compare to the thrill of taking your motorcycle on the open road…the power of the engine, the wind in your face, the exhilaration when you accelerate. Let’s face it…there’s also the excitement of being directly exposed to the elements. It’s a bit of a trade-off, though, as there’s less to protect you in the event of an accident. But there are many things you can do to minimize the risk of injury. Most cyclists ride for decades without a scrape, but it’s not just luck. They’re paying attention, taking specific measures to make their experience as safe as possible. Here are some simple steps you can take to make certain your memories are always positive.
- Drive defensively—The most common response from a motorist who causes a motorcycle accident? “I didn’t see the bike.” You can’t ever assume that other drivers are aware of your presence. Be proactive…watch what other drivers are doing, stay out of their blind spots, give plenty of advance warning when you plan to turn or change direction, watch for cars that are turning or stopping
- Improve your chances of being seen—Take steps to enhance your visibility. Wear bright clothing or reflective tape. Ride with your headlights on. Use hand signals in addition to the signals on your bike.
- Keep your riding skills sharp—Consider taking a safety class or riding courses to keep your skills honed.
- Obey the rules of the road—Another major cause of motorcycle accidents—bikers who take short cuts or jockey in and out of motor vehicle traffic. Stay within the speed limit, make certain you stop at red lights and stop signs, and don’t change lanes or pass in no pass zones.
- Wear protective clothing—Sometimes you can do everything right and still be at risk. That’s why it’s important to wear the right clothing. Leather will minimize the risk of road rash, and good boots and gloves can help you avoid serious injury.
Contact Weber & Nierenberg
At Weber & Nierenberg, we bring over 30 years of experience to people in and around San Francisco Bay area who have been injured in a motorcycle accident. We built our practice on a strong commitment to personal service and attention. We’ll take the time to learn the unique aspects of your case, so that we can tailor our representation to get the outcome you want. When you hire us to help you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses, Joe Nierenberg will work directly with you throughout the process.
To set up a free initial consultation with an experienced California motorcycle accident injury attorney, contact Weber & Nierenberg by e-mail or call our office at 1-866-288-6010.
Los Angeles Law Enforcement Officers Put Spotlight on Motorcycle Safety
Citing statistics that show a dramatic increase in motorcycle accident fatalities and injuries in the last decade, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has kicked off a new initiative intended to bolter motorcycle safety. Officials say that a focused “Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operation” went into effect on September 19, 2017. The program will see extra officers on duty in areas where motorcycle traffic is heavy and motorcycle accidents have been frequent.
According to officials, since the low water mark of 352 motorcycles deaths in 2010, California has seen a 28% jump in fatalities, with a five-year-high of 453 in 2013. Among the factors contributing to the high fatality rate are speeding, impaired driving and unsafe turning.
Public safety officers offered the following safety tips for riders:
- Drive at the same speed as others around you
- Wear clothes that allow you to be seen
- Always ride with your lights on, even in the day
- Use your lane to improve your visibility
Contact Weber & Nierenberg
At Weber & Nierenberg, we bring over 30 years of experience to people in and around San Francisco Bay area who have been injured in a motorcycle accident. We built our practice on a strong commitment to personal service and attention. We’ll take the time to learn the unique aspects of your case, so that we can tailor our representation to get the outcome you want. When you hire us to help you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses, Joe Nierenberg will work directly with you throughout the process.
To set up a free initial consultation with an experienced California motorcycle accident injury attorney, contact Weber & Nierenberg by e-mail or call our office at 1-866-288-6010.