As the spring weather blossoms, many motorcycle owners can’t wait to get back on their bikes. Spring and summer are a particularly busy time for motorcyclists in South Carolina — and a particularly dangerous time as well. If for any reason you suffer any type of injury while riding your motorcycle, you can count on the motorcycle accident attorneys at Jebaily Law Firm.
Myrtle Beach hosts a major Harley-Davidson motorcycle rally in early May, better known as the Harley Week. Although the rally hit a pandemic speed bump in 2020, the event came roaring back this year. Attendance was “particularly high” in 2021, according to the Charleston Post & Courier. At least one motorcycle accident death occurred during bike week this year when a rider hit a parked car, the newspaper reported.
According to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), May is typically the worst month for motorcycle accidents. In one recent year, 275 motorcycle crashes happened on South Carolina roads in May, according to the SCDPS data. Fatalities have been rising over the past decade, with 125 bikers killed on South Carolina roads during 2019, compared to 95 in 2005.
Before hitting the road this spring, riders should take the opportunity to review these key motorcycle safety tips to protect themselves while riding.
Get to Know Your Bike
If you haven’t ridden your motorcycle during the winter, you should strongly consider taking your motorcycle to an empty parking lot or quiet street to reacquaint yourself with your bike before heading out on a trip. Make sure you know how your bike accelerates and brakes. You should also take any new bike you purchase to a quiet, open space to practice riding and get to know the motorcycle’s performance.
Wear a Helmet
Even though South Carolina law only requires helmets for riders under age 21, all riders should ideally wear a U.S. Department of Transportation approved helmet whenever they’re on their bike. In the event of an accident, a good helmet can help protect you from severe or potentially even fatal brain injuries. Riders should also always have eye protection, such as a face shield on a helmet or shatterproof goggles.
Keep Your Distance
Although motorcycles can stop more quickly than other motor vehicles, that shouldn’t serve as an excuse for motorcycle riders to tailgate. Riders should always keep their distance from other motor vehicles on the road, so they have as much time as possible to react in the event of an emergency.
Ride Defensively
Many motorcycle accidents occur because a driver of a passenger vehicle or truck fails to see the motorcycle. Riders can help protect themselves on the road by driving defensively. This means proceeding cautiously, especially at intersections. Always assume that another motorist does not see you. Stay ready to react at a moment’s notice to avoid a collision with a careless driver.
Avoid Riding in Bad Weather
Early spring can still see bad weather, including frequent thunderstorms. Although bad weather can ruin riding opportunities, you should always avoid getting on your bike in bad weather whenever possible. Rain and wind can significantly impact a motorcycle’s stability and performance, while heavy precipitation or fog can make it even harder for other drivers to see you on your bike.
How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, a lawyer from Jebaily Law Firm can help by:
- Investigating the crash and recovering evidence to use in your case
- Identifying the party or parties at fault and building a persuasive argument to show their liability for the crash
- Filing claims with the insurance company and at-fault parties
- Vigorously pursuing a settlement that provides you with fair and full compensation
- Advising you on your legal options, including when going to trial represents the best opportunity for a recovery in your case
Contact our firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyers. Learn more about how our firm can help you through the claims process to seek financial compensation for your injuries. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of injured accident victims throughout our South Carolina community.
