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Riding a motorcycle feels like freedom. But with that freedom comes risk. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car drivers. Many of these crashes happen because of simple rider mistakes that can be avoided.
If you or someone you know has been in a crash, the motorcycle accident lawyers at Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers can help you understand your legal options. But first, let’s talk about how to stay safer on the road by avoiding the five common mistakes that cause many motorcycle accidents.
Let’s get going:
Overestimating Riding Skills
Many riders feel confident after a few months or years of riding. While confidence is reasonable, too much of it can lead to trouble. Some riders take on tricky roads, speed around corners, or ride in bad weather, thinking they can handle anything.
This overconfidence often results in sudden stops, skids, or—worse—serious crashes. No one is perfect; even the best riders must slow down and ride within their limits.
Tip: Stay humble. Don’t risk a road or a move if you’re not 100% sure about a highway.
Ignoring Blind Spots and Lane Rules
Many motorcycle accidents happen because other drivers don’t see the rider. Motorcycles are small and can easily hide in blind spots. Some riders also switch lanes without checking properly or ride in between lanes, which is also called lane splitting, and it can be dangerous.
Even with mirrors, it’s hard for drivers to spot motorcycles. If riders aren’t careful, they can have a nasty crash.
Tip: Stay out of blind spots. Ride where you’re easy to see, and always signal before changing lanes.
Not Wearing the Right Gear
Some riders skip helmets or wear just a T-shirt and jeans while riding. But riding gear is not just about style, it’s about safety. According to the CDC, helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by 69%.
Even a minor accident can cause cuts, burns, or broken bones without the right gear.
Tip: Wear a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, long pants, a jacket, and closed shoes every time you ride. It might not look cool, but it can save your life.
Poor Cornering Habits
Corners can be tricky. Riders often enter turns too fast, lean too much, or don’t look through the turn. These habits can cause the motorcycle to slide or go off the road.
This is even more dangerous for the rider on wet, sandy, or new roads.
Tip: Slow down before the turn. Look through the curve, keep your balance, and roll on the throttle smoothly as you exit.
Riding While Distracted or Impaired
Some riders check their phones, listen to loud music, or ride after drinking. These actions take your focus off the road. Glancing at a phone can be enough to miss a stop sign or a car pulling out.
Drinking or using drugs makes it harder to think, react in time, or control the bike.
Tip: Put your phone away. Don’t ride if you’ve been drinking or taking anything that affects your focus. One wrong move is all it takes.
The Final Say!
Motorcycle riding can be fun and freeing, but it must be done carefully. By avoiding these five common mistakes, riders can keep themselves and others safer. Every ride matters, make it a safe one.