How to Stay Safe on Your Motorcycle This Summer

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Summer is finally here and that means that a lot of us will be spending a lot more time outdoors and for motorcycle enthusiasts that means a lot more time riding. As a Seattle motorcycle accident attorney working at a Bellevue personal injury law firm I know that although summer is the most enjoyable time to ride a motorcycle, it is also the most dangerous time of year for riders. Motorcycle accidents tend to go up in the summer months because more people are riding.

Already, Washington State Patrol has seen in increase in motorcycle accidents since last year and they are urging riders to obey all Washington State traffic laws and slow down when riding on an unfamiliar road. They also have a few tips for riders to help keep them safe on the roads:

Slow down
Assume you are invisible to other motorists on the roadway
Pay attention to your surroundings
Wear proper clothing and DOT approved helmets
Don’t drive beyond your abilities
Obey suggested speed limit signs

According to the Washington State Patrol, speed and impaired driving are the top two reasons for motorcycle accidents in Washington State. Impaired driving is reckless and dangerous for anyone driving any type of vehicle and can lead to a devastating collision with severe personal injuries or the wrongful death of an innocent victim.

I lot of people have a negative stereotype of motorcyclists saying that they are dangerous, they ride too fast and they try and pull stunts on the road that can cause a serious auto accident. But most riders are very safe and follow all the rules of the road. Unfortunately the ones that make the news are the ones that killed themselves going 100 mph in a 35 mph zone. For motorcyclists the most important things to remember are: ride safe, be responsible and know the laws. Being a safe respectful driver will not only keep you safe but everyone else that is on the road with you.