There is a common misconception that motorcycles can and will more easily yield to large vehicles in traffic. Although this is not always true, other drivers often exercise less care around motorbikes, putting their riders at greater risk.
For those who enjoy motorbiking in Columbus, there are several driving habits that can help prevent injury. However, there is no way to completely avoid the risk of traffic collisions, especially when other motorists behave recklessly on the road. If you are hit by another vehicle while riding, the best way to protect your right to recover damages is to contact our motorbike accident attorneys. To minimize the chances of this occurring, read the following information on motorcycle safety protocol in Columbus.
Safety Measures before Motorbiking
There are several important checks that bikers should perform before heading out on Columbus roads.
Ohio law mandates working signal and brake lights for any automotive vehicle, including motorcycles. For safe and legal motorbike operation, bikers should take the following safety measures before riding:
- Check that all lights are working properly
- Put on a helmet (required by law for motorists under 18)
- Ensure that bike attachments are not inhibiting the space of any passengers
- Wear proper eye protection, especially if there is no windscreen or shield on the front of the bike
Important Documents for Riding
At a minimum, Columbus motorcyclists should carry the following documentation when riding:
Turn Signal Protocol for Columbus Motorcyclists
In Ohio, motorcyclists are required to have working turn signals on their vehicle. For U-turns, hand gestures alone are insufficient to comply with state laws but may be used along with electric turn signals as additional warning to other drivers. However, taking a hand off the handlebars to signal could lead to less control of the bike, so riders should use gestures with caution while on the road.
Additionally, because hand signals are not continuous, they may not be as visible to other motorists. For example, a biker who is stopped while waiting to turn left is at greater risk of being
rear-ended if other drivers cannot see their signaling. That biker may also have greater difficulty
recovering damages even with the help of a skilled local attorney because they did not use proper electric signaling.
Inclement Weather Motorcycle Safety Protocol
As local bikers will know, Columbus can experience dramatic weather changes, including frequent pop-up thunderstorms. Two-wheels are less stable than four, so what may be safe weather for driving a car or truck might pose additional risks to a motorcyclist. Generally, the safest protocol for Columbus riders is to stay off the roads in inclement weather.
Everyone on the road is responsible for knowing what the weather conditions are and ensuring that they can maintain control of their vehicle. It is always recommended that motorcyclists check the conditions beforehand and plan their routes accordingly for any precipitation. Using the proper eye protection and clothing—as well as avoiding the roads altogether for severe winds, rain, or ice—can help prevent motorbike crashes.
Call a Columbus Attorney for Motorcycle Safety Protocol after a Crash
Even the safest riders are not immune to traffic collisions. In the event of a crash, your first call should be to police and any necessary medical personnel. If a biker is capable of doing so following their accident, it is also a good idea to take photos of the scene and vehicle damage. This can be useful for any potential claims for recovery.
In a perfect world, someone who follows all motorcycle safety protocol in Columbus would not get in a traffic crash. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Columbus,
call our experienced attorneys at
O’Connor, Acciani & Levy for a consultation.
