When the weather warms up in Michigan, motorcycle enthusiasts can rejoice. However, riding a motorcycle involves a level of risk.
Monitoring your surroundings for signs of common risk factors can help you reduce the chances of getting into an accident.
Hazardous road conditions
Vehicles can slide more easily on slick or icy surfaces than dry ones. Your motorcycle may become less responsible on wet terrain, so monitor weather reports and try to plan your trips accordingly.
Roads full of potholes, cracks or debris can be treacherous to navigate. Dirt roads may be uneven or muddy and can contribute to unsafe driving conditions. Slow down when navigating unsafe roads and consider taking a safer route even if it is longer.
Human error
Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but when errors occur while driving, they can lead to serious consequences. Even if drivers are trying to pay attention, they may not notice motorcyclists. If that is the case, drivers may change lanes or turn into traffic without noting their position.
When you are on your motorcycle, watch for parked vehicles. Doors may swing open unexpectedly or a person or animal could enter the road without warning.
Reckless driving
Reckless driving includes excessive speeding, changing lanes without using an indicator or willfully doing anything that is likely to injure someone or damage property. Avoiding drivers who are aggressive or display dangerous driving techniques can help you prevent an accident.
While it may not be possible to prevent every accident, you can decrease the danger by driving defensively and avoiding unsafe conditions whenever possible.