What to Know Before the Accident

When mounting a motorcycle, be sure that you are prepared to take on the related responsibilities. These responsibilities include not only the rules of the road and any related defensive driving, but also the responsibility of any passengers. These responsibilities rest on your shoulders at all times when you are behind any wheel, and adhering to them may save a life later on.

Always practice the safe basic riding habits. This includes wearing a helmet and other protective gear such as gloves. Wear the proper bike attire when on your motorcycle. When taking on a passenger, be sure to have an extra helmet prepared for them. This will keep them safe in the long run, should anything happen. Utilize defensive driving techniques and try to keep out of the blind spots of surrounding vehicles. Be sure to have the best motorcycle insurance available to you, and ensure that you know every detail in your insurance policy, particularly what it states about passengers.

Every time you embark on the road, no matter how short the trip is planned to be, there are specific items you should bring to ensure a safe and precautions driving experience. Always bring your cell phone, a camera, and a card. Carrying these three “C’s” now may save a life later. The cell phone will enable you or others to call for help if necessary, and the camera will allow for pictures to be taken should you get into an accident and you need proof of damage for your insurance company. If you do not have a camera handy, the camera on your cell phone or a disposable camera will do the job just as efficiently. On the card should be your name, information, and emergency contact information should you or anyone else become unresponsive. This card will help your passenger or officials contact the people that need to know of any given event should an accident occur.

Are You Liable?

Motorcycle accident liability can be found in anyone, depending on the factors involved and who in fact is the negligent party. In general, the part that is proven to be negligent, inattentive, or violating the traffic laws is the party that is liable. In most cases, the driver of a vehicle may not always see the motorcycle, and is thus the cause of an accident. The liability in these situations thus rests on the driver of the vehicle, for the rules of the road state that any driver must be aware of their surroundings at all times. If they are not aware of any vehicles, including motorcycles, in the area, then they are not being attentive and thus they are negligent. In other cases, a motorcycle defect may have been the cause of the accident. Unique factors of the accident may determine who exactly is the liable party.

If you have been wronged, by the negligent party or an insurance company, speak with a personal injury attorney for details on how to begin a lawsuit.

How Will Your Insurance Work?

Your insurance experience all begins with your insurance policy. Knowing your exact policy beforehand is a great way to be prepared before heading out on the road. Most insurance policies cover the individual who is an injured passenger in an accident. Every insurance policy works differently, and it all depends on which one you choose when buying the insurance itself. Various aspects are based on the factors surrounding your insurance, such as the type of vehicle or the state you live in.

On the other side of the same coin, the handling of the post-accident experience also depends on what kind of insurance the other vehicle or motorcycle has. Motorcycle insurance usually helps with one of three options. The first option is paying you or a family member if a claim exists. It may also pay for an attorney to defend you in legal defense, or they can also help you in terms of indemnification, or when you pay what you owe when a claim is against you personally.

The coverage you receive depends on your specific policy. Coverage that is available are liability, medical payments, uninsured and underinsured coverage, and damage coverage. Each policy has its own limitations so be sure to ask about every detail.

 Tips for a Passenger

When you are the passenger on a motorcycle, you feel the wind at your sides like a bird. You put all of your trust into the driver of the bike, and while the responsibility of driving with a passenger rests on them, you can do your part as a passenger to ensure that the experience is a safe one. When both the driver and the passenger are safe, the driving experience is as safe as it can be. The passenger’s safety can be collected in three categories: clothing, mounting the bike, and riding the motorcycle as a passenger.

Clothing is the first category, for even the most basic covering can mean the difference between minor and major injuries. Find protective clothing that can help you in the event of an accident. Hiking boots can protect your feet and ankles, and durable pants of leather or thick denim will protect your legs. Leather jackets also make for a good protectant. Always wear a helmet.

The second category is mounting and dismounting the motorcycle. Before getting on the bike, make sure the passenger footpegs are down and stable. Always know where the exhaust pipes are, as they can get hot and can cause severe burns. Always mount and dismount the motorcycle from the left side, and wait for the rider to let you know when it is safe to do so.

Once mounted on the motorcycle, it is important to know how to ride as a passenger. It is your responsibility to not throw off the balance of the bike. Lock your feet into place on the passenger footpegs and place your hands on the rider’s hips. When turning, position yourself according to the turn. When steering left, look over the rider’s left shoulder. When steering right, look over the rider’s right shoulder. Be sure to hold yourself steady and in place in the event of a sudden stop.

Whether you are a rider or a passenger, knowing these tips now can give you a safer riding experience later. Know the rules of the road, your position’s responsibilities, and how to tell the liable part in the event of an accident. Know every nook of your insurance policy, and practice defensive and safe driving. An accident can unfortunately happen in any moment, and preparing yourself now can minimize any potential damage or confusion.

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The Florida Landscape

The roads of Florida are not drastic, but they are certainly varied. While highways may have sharp turns and narrow curves, most Florida roads are long and straight. The state’s terrain does not grow higher than a few hundred feet above sea level, so there are few large hills in Florida. While straight roads may seem like an easier ride when compared to other types of roads, it can become an issue when the texture of the road itself interferes with your ride. Be on the lookout for debris on the road, such as shredded pieces of tires or glass. Know how your bike handles on various road types, such as dirt roads or different kinds of concrete.

If Florida’s weather were a person, it would be very moody. calm, collected, and sunny during the spring and autumn months, winter can become biting cold and summer washes away the season in downpours. In the summer, rain can last anywhere between mere minutes to days. While the weather may seem sunny when you begin the ride on your motorcycle, it can quickly grow dark, gray, and wet. From there, it can even return to its sunny weather. With unpredictable weather hovering over your head while on the road, it is best to be prepared for anything. Roads can become dangerously slippery when wet, which is never beneficial to a motorcyclist. When rains become heavy, or even if you do not feel safe on the road at any time, immediately pull over to the nearest shelter and wait it out. It is better to use your time in precaution than fear.

What You Should Know About Motorcycle Accidents

Statistics are always good to know when about to head out onto the open road. But you are an individual; a person with the ability to think, create, and take action. You are not a statistic. Knowing what the demographics are now can help you take appropriate cautionary measures when on the road.

Because most of the motorcycle riders are male, they make up the gender that mostly fall victim in accidents. The ages of most motorcycle fatalities range from twenty to twenty-four and fifty to fifty-four.

Safety gear is important! Road rash, facial scarring, fractures, dental damage, and spinal or head trauma may occur in an accident. Protect yourself at all times. Florida’s prime season for accidents runs from March to October, and all holidays.

Know where crashes are the most likely to occur and take the necessary precaution in your area. According to Florida’s 2010 Crash Statistic Report and The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, most fatalities occur in the following counties:

• Broward County
• Hillsborough County
• Miami Dade County
• Orange County
• Palm Beach County
• Pinellas County
• Volusia County

Keep this information in mind next time you mount your motorcycle. If you live in the counties mentioned, take extra precaution and avoid busy areas. Always stay alert and make the safest decision.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

No motorcycle accident happens without a reason. Knowing what these reasons can be can help save a life. The reasons come in the categories of the rider’s perception, the rider’s bike, the driver’s perception, the driver’s vehicle, and outside factors.

While riding your motorcycle, keeping your perception awake and alert is the first step in a safe ride. If you are starting a new medication regimen, understand that some symptoms may include drowsiness, of which you have probably heard the phrase before “do not operate heavy machinery.” This is very true, especially when dealing with heavy machinery that moves on the road. Never drive while intoxicated.

Your bike is an extension of yourself. Keeping it healthy includes making sure it is regularly maintained. Check on a regular basis the engine, the brakes, and everything in between to ensure a safe ride. If you apply modifications to your bike, be aware that they might change the weight of the bike and the feel of the ride. Know what changes come with modifications and learn how to handle the change on the road.

The driver of a vehicle may not always be as aware as you are. They might not regularly check their blind spots, or they may just be careless drivers. If they are intoxicated or otherwise drowsy from medication, they may not be the safest drivers with whom to share the road. While this is out of the motorcycle rider’s control, it is safest for you, as the motorcycle rider, to practice defensive driving, as if everyone other than yourself is not driving safely.

The other vehicle and vehicles around you will not always be in the best shape. This is out of the control of their neighbors on the road, but it is true. Cars are not always regularly maintained and bad things can result. While on your bike, always be prepared for what may happen. Be prepared to change lanes if something does not appear safe, and always have the knowledge of your surroundings to accurately make a decision that may have to be a quick one.

Outside factors are always something to be prepared for. Do not try to drive in heavy rain or fog. Be prepared for the sporadic events of Florida weather, and be prepared to make necessary changes to accommodate appropriately.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, the first thing you need to do is make sure everyone involved, including yourself, is okay and uninjured. Take the measures needed to ensure recovery. Even minor injuries need to be looked at, especially since a small injury could grow into something worse. Call the police and a personal injury attorney and speak with them before speaking to insurance companies. Take photos of the weather, the surroundings, the motorcycles or vehicles involved and their placement in regards to each other. Also take pictures of any injuries sustained. These photos will help you remember the incidents as well as become proof for insurance companies. Even pictures from a cell phone are handy enough to use. Exchange information with the other party as soon as you can.

Concluding Thoughts

In an ideal world, every road would be a safe road, and no accidents would occur. This is unfortunately not the case, but the first place to start is on your own bike. Driving safely with the right perception and safety gear can make a vast difference when on the road. Remember to note down all the details and keep a balanced perspective after an accident, and do not forget to contact an attorney. With freedom comes responsibility, especially when mounting a motorcycle.

The post Motorcycle Accidents in Florida: The “Where” appeared first on Chopper Law.

1.) Keep Your Own Perception Aware

When driving in any vehicle, the primary controller of the car or motorcycle is yourself. Your perception determines the quality of your time on the road and can mean the difference between a safe drive to your destination or a dent in your vehicle, or worse. As you already know, a motorcycle is more vulnerable in an accident than a heavier car, so the quality of the perception of its driver is of top importance.

Alcohol can be one of the ways that any drivers’ perception is drastically lowered in quality. Drinking and driving is a practice that can prove fatal to those driving in vehicles; driving impaired on a motorcycle is almost a death sentence. Understand that while your own limit may be three beers, the limit of perception on the road is barely on drink. Any intoxication is intoxication.

Medication can make you drowsy, which can cause deadly circumstances. When taking new medication, always discuss with your doctor the possible side effects that may affect your driving, and always read the labels of your medication or vitamins. When beginning any new medication or vitamin regimen, be sure to understand every aspect of exactly what it will do to you personally. Protecting yourself and your perception is the first way to defend yourself on the road.

2.) Adhere to the Rules of the Road and Then Some

Defensive driving is safe driving, and driving safely begins with yourself and continues with adherence to the rules of the road. Aside from the basics of the stop signs and yielding turns, taking extra precautions can go far and can save your life. Defend yourself with precautions, not assumptions. Do not assume that other drivers will see you. Motorcycles are substantially smaller than all other vehicles, and are thus susceptible to being in the blind spots of their neighbors. As you do this, avoid driving in the blind spots of those around you. Assumptions are also dangerous at intersections. Do not assume that other drivers will give you the right of way, even when you do have the right of way.

Traffic lanes are also deserving of extra cautionary attention. When riding in a lane, be sure to avoid riding in the center. By adhering to the side, you allow for extra room in the event of aggressive or impatient drivers to pass you.

Florida has specific regulations in regards to splitting and sharing lanes. In Florida, splitting, or riding between lanes, is illegal with the exceptions of police officers and firefighters. While sharing a lane is legal in our state, it is illegal to pass a vehicle in the same lane.

3.) Defense Other Than Defensive Driving

While defensive driving usually entails the proper maneuvering of your vehicle or motorcycle in various roadway situations, sometimes the “defense” in defensive driving should be taken literally. Wearing the proper safety gear now can protect you not only against the weather, but possible accidents on the road as well. When protecting yourself with safety gear, do so from the head, down. Start with a helmet that fits all regulations. Always wear it, even for the shortest trip. Never taken any chances with your safety. Wear proper eye and face protection that can protect against rain, especially during Florida’s rainy season. Optional safety gear includes vests and armor. Wear gloves that give you a good and safe grip with every grab of the handlebars. Choose shoes that you can trust when leaning while stopped. Increase your visibility with brightly colored gear or reflective tape.

Defend yourself while taking turns as well. At any possible opportunity when turning at an intersection, position yourself so you are shielded by a car turning the same direction as you. You can always switch lanes after. When on the road, any protection is good protection.

4.) Be Aware of Your Environment

Defensive driving also includes the quality of the environment you drive in. Florida, known for its sunny days and rainy seasons, is home to many afternoons of wet and slippery roads. Knowing how to drive in various environments can help you avoid accidents.

Floridian roads can become covered with nearby beach sands, oil spills, wet leaves, or watery puddles. Avoid driving on roads that are blanketed with sand, wet leaves, or oil. Any one of these things can become a danger to the traction of your tires. If possible, avoid driving right after rain. Rain makes roads slippery, which can throw your bike out of control. Plan ahead accordingly in case of bad weather before a ride.

The condition of the road is also something to watch for. Defensive driving is not just about defending yourself about other drivers, but also the road you’re driving on as well. Avoid roadway debris such as old rubber from tires or glass from a previous accident. Avoid construction sites; nails are more hazardous to motorcycles than to cars.

In any weather, be sure to pay attention to the traffic around you. Is anyone swaying or swerving? How close is everyone else in proximity to you? Are there bicycles, animals, or children in the area? How close are you driving to your neighbors? These are all questions to be asking yourself every time you get on your motorcycle, or any vehicle in general.

5.) Your Motorcycle is an Extension of Yourself On the Road

Just as you should keep your own perception aware while on the road, your motorcycle should be in top shape as well. Better quality means a safer riding experience, and there are plenty of ways to ensure that your motorcycle rides with the best quality. Every time you ride, be sure to increase visibility by riding with your lights on, at any time of day or night. You want people to see you and your awesome ride!

When taking turns, be careful. Many accidents that involve motorcycles happen on curves and turns. Know how your bike handles on the roads in your riding area, and figure in its weight while you prepare to turn. The handling of your motorcycle also includes maintenance. Maintain your bike on a regular basis and turn safety checks into a routine.

While on the road, and highways in particular, keep in mind that the safest lane is to the far left. Driving on the far right lane can make you vulnerable to the cars merging onto the highway.

Every time you drive on the road, be cautious, but be assertive as well. Self-doubt while on the road can lead to hazardous results. Make all driving decisions with confidence.

Final Thoughts

By adhering to these defensive driving strategies, you will feel much safer, as you will be doing your part to keep the road safe. There are two halves involved in driving: your own driving and the driving of everyone else around you. While you can’t control the driving of those around you, you do have control over aspects about your personal half of the road: the maintenance of your bike, your own safety gear, and your awareness. When all of these aspects are fused together, your riding experience can be fun, safe, and freeing.

The post 5 Defensive Driving Strategies to Avoid a Motorcycle Accident appeared first on Chopper Law.

Reducing Your Rates

Many options are available when keeping an eye out for exactly how to reduce your motorcycle insurance rates. The preliminary step before any of the list below is the completely understand every single part of the terms of your insurance policy. Comprehend every section and every detail, even the fine print. If you have questions, do not be afraid to ask. Once you understand every bit of your policy, your questions in regard to reduction will be clarified. There are many other ways to reduce your rates.

• Always be a safe driver. Your driving record, even in your vehicle, will help a company see the prospective future of your driving. Moving violations or speeding tickets can increase premiums.
• Change your coverage to the minimal option. Do not pay for anything extra that you do not need. Limiting the amount of protection you receive is a compromise: you save money, but you are also responsible for any damages that are not under the policy limit.
• Discounts. Some insurance policies can include the option of discounts. Some discounts include senior or student discounts. Other discounts can be awarded just by joining certain motorcycle groups. Membership alone can lead to discounts. Other discounts can be given if others are jointed to your policy.
• Select a high deductible. This may not save you much, but every little bit counts, especially in the contemporary economy.
• Have a financially reputable credit score. By being fiscally responsible and paying your bills on time, your insurance will see that you are a responsible person. This may end up with a cost that is dramatically lower.
• Safety courses. By understanding the specifics of your policy, you will be able to find out if enrollment in motorcycle safety courses can give you a discount on your premium. Most schools offer enrollment in beginner and expert courses for your bike. You get to learn about your bike and save money!
• Ask if protection against theft can lower your insurance bill. A safety system or a simple act such as keeping your bike in the garage may help in lowering your rate.
• Tell your insurance agent everything. Tell them about your car driving habits, your paying habits, and your motorcycle driving habits as well as your intended mileage. Any extra information, such as riding experience and longevity of ownership can help you in saving money.

Tip

Do not skimp out on aspects of insurance that you may need. When you pay less money, you get less quality. Try to get discounts or reasonable offers when possible, but also keep your safety and that of your loved ones a priority.

Contact Us Today

Here at Chopper Lawyer, we can help you through all of your motorcycle insurance needs. From learning about your premiums to learning how to reduce them, we have the knowledge and the skill set. Our personal injury attorneys also know how to stay safe on the road no matter how many wheels you like to ride. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, or if you have any questions regarding motorcycle insurance premiums, do not hesitate to contact Chopper Lawyer today.

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How Negligence is Proven

The law states that individuals owe those around them a duty to act responsibly in situational circumstances. In the most basic terms, it is all about being a decent human being. If Person A’s car hits Person B, and Person A drives away without acting responsibly and owning up to their actions, Person A is now the negligent party as long as the event can be proven. Proof is needed whenever the person who causes an accident fails in this duty in order for them to be held responsible.

Negligence, at its most basic definition, is neglect. Negligence is not about intentional harm; but rather, carelessness and failure to act responsibly. An example would be walking past someone who is heavily bleeding. The failure to call emergency services for the bleeding person is negligence.

Negligence is proven depending on what type of negligence was involved. In contributory negligence, if the defendant’s negligence is determined to be more severe than the plaintiff’s negligence, then the claim is defeated. This means that in a motorcycle accident, the plaintiff is at fault when negligence lies in both the plaintiff and the defendant. In comparative negligence, a comparison of both parties is allowed to figure the awarding damages. This is based on the amount of the plaintiff’s negligence that caused the injury.

What You Can Do to Avoid Accidents: Cars

Sharing a road with motorcycles does not have to be an unnerving or dangerous time for anyone. Taking certain precautions as the driver of a vehicle can save time, money, and most importantly, lives. Watching for bikers does not mean extra time out of your day or extra money out of your wallet; it just means a new awareness on the various travelers of the road.

• Do not use the entire road to drive. While this may seem obvious, driving on your side of the road avoids accidents with anyone else on the road no matter who is driving what. The motorcyclist needs their own lane to drive in, so never join in on their own lane. Motorcycles may be smaller than vehicles, but the space of a lane is crucial to motorcycle safety.
• Pay attention to who and what is on the road around you. Be sure to regularly check all blind spots.
• Signal in time.
• If driving behind a motorcycle, give them plenty of room between your vehicle and the motorcycle.

What You Can Do to Avoid Accidents: Motorcycles

Riding a motorcycle can be freeing. On the other side of that coin, it can be dangerous when precautions are not taken.

• Do your best to drive past other cars’ blind spots.
• Always wear a helmet and any other safety gear.
• Be aware of the road’s environment, surroundings, and the weather.
• Maintain your bike regularly.

Contact Us Today

Here at Chopper Lawyer, we understand that accidents are, of course, accidental unless proven otherwise. While there are steps that both drivers and motorcyclists can take to ensure a safer road for everyone, mistakes happen, and it is everyone’s duty to do the right thing when a situation arises. If your or your loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, or if you have any questions regarding negligence on a motorcycle or on the road in general, do not hesitate to contact us today. We serve the Florida counties of Hernando, Citrus, Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough.

The post How is Negligence Proven in a Motorcycle Accident? appeared first on Chopper Law.

Motorcycle Modification

Modifications can become a memorable adjustment to any part of your motorcycle. However, some modifications can affect the safety of your riding experience. Modifications that improve how the bike works do not pose much threat to the overall safety. Such modifications include engine performance, comfort, handling, breaking, or cargo capacity. Even though every modification poses somewhat of a threat and is never completely safe, there is no need to lose sleep over a modification when it is implemented properly.

It is the handling that becomes a concern in regards to modifications. Any modification made changes the motorcycle’s handling, which then needs some time getting used to. A motorcycle should feel like an extension of its rider, and the rider needs to master how it handles no matter what. Some modifications are more for look than for function, and sometimes the first replaces the latter. It is never safe to trade safety for aesthetics.

Some modifications are made to fit the driver, such as when a motorcycle is lowered so the rider can have a safe stance during a stop. However, this same modification means that the cornering ground clearance has been compromised. The entire riding experience can change with a modification to the structure. The first step in motorcycle safety while on the road begins with the rider and their responsibility to work with their bike. Always understand the consequences of a modification, no matter what the change is. Understand what the modification can and cannot do, and do not try to push any limits.

Modified motorcycles are involved in crashes on the road. Modifications can turn a motorcycle into a semi-chopper, which makes the vehicle more likely to crash, and holds the two largest subcategories of bike: cruisers and sportbikes. Modified exhaust systems are also a factor in the majority of motorcycle accidents when modification is involved.

If you are thinking of modifying your bike, be safe about it. Know the rules and regulations of the road, and take into consideration what your bike can and cannot handle. Modifications made by the rider are vastly different than those made by a professional manufacturer. Do not compromise quality and safety. Avoid using modification fads just to make your bike look “cool.” A while back it was popular to remove the front brake of a motorcycle, which resulted in many crashes. Always take the safest measures when modifying your motorcycle.

Contact Us Today

Each motorcycle is like the finger prints of its rider: unique. Everyone is different in their own way, and as cliché as it sounds, diversity is an important aspect in the human community. Here at Chopper Lawyer, we help motorcycles drive on the road of the law in the Florida counties of Hernando, Pasco, Citrus, Pinellas, and Hillsborough. We can help you with all your needs regarding motorcycles and the law. If you have any questions regarding motorcycle law or modifications, or if you or your loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact us today.

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The Motorcycle and the Car

A motorcycle is much different than a car. While at first that may seem like an obvious statement, it is true. In a motorcycle, the rider must be attentive at all times, and does not have the same amount of distractions as a car. In a motorcycle, you can’t drink coffee or be on your phone. When mounting a motorcycle, you agree to face head on whatever obstacles and dangers await you. Riding a motorcycle is a feat that requires time and risk management. It is important to understand this before riding away on that steel horse into the sunset.

Considerations

When buying your first motorcycle, it is important to weigh some considerations. Making these decisions now can impact your growth and overall motorcycle experience.

• The Weight. Many new riders will not anticipate the weight of the bike itself, and will drop it. This is common among new riders; every great rider was once a novice at some point. Weight becomes less of an issue the more you are in motion. When looking at your potential first bike, ask how much it weighs.
• The Trips. Will you be touring across the country or feeling the freedom of your county? Whether you are staying in town or exploring the purple mountains’ majesty, the style of bike can affect your comfort during various trips. A position with your wrists slanted downwards will lead to your wrists supporting more of your body weight. A more upright riding position provides the most comfort. Ask yourself what type of trips you want to take with this bike.
• The Height. When you are stopped while on your bike, you will need to put both feet on the ground to safely keep your bike upright. Be sure to buy in accordance to your height. Some manufacturers offer low seat options for various bikes.
• Used versus new. Your first motorcycle will be learning you while you are learning it. Throughout this relationship, your bike may get scratched, dented, or even knocked over. Buying a used motorcycle first is a great way to get used to the world of motorcycling, and leaves you more room for trial and error.
• Security. Be sure you have a safe space for your motorcycle waiting to protect your bike. A recommended space is the garage. Be sure to make the correct safety measures when bringing your bike home.
• Protection. When riding your bike, be sure to wear clothing that is both comfortable and that offers protection. Buy a helmet that is up to standard.
• Ride before you buy. Before making that purchase, give that bike a test run. Does it feel like it could become an extension of yourself? Is it comfortable? Only you are the judge.

Contact Us Today

Your first motorcycle is a memory you will carry with you forever. With correct maintenance and repairs, attention to the laws of the road, and an adherence to safety, the relationship between you and your motorcycle can be long term. Be sure to take precautions while riding your motorcycle, and if you are riding in a car, remember to be on the lookout for motorcycles. If you or your loved one have become injured in a car accident while on a motorcycle, our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to represent you. Contact us today for a free consultation.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Buying Your First Motorcycle appeared first on Chopper Law.

Engine

Always use good oil and change it every three to five thousand miles. The lubricants, brake fluid, and coolants need to be replaced about every other year, but it can be done every year as well. Never use pure antifreeze. Your fuel filter should be changed every year.

Suspension

Always maintain your wheel alignment, wheel and steering neck bearings, swim arm bearings, shock linkage bushings, and suspension tuning. Proper maintenance will ensure that your bike is always feeling its best while transporting you.

Drive Chain

Drive chains are the parts of the bike that will require the most attention. Never buy the cheaper alternative for drive chains. Keep them clean and lubricated; a chain that has been properly maintained should last between fifteen to twenty thousand miles.

Always replace both sprockets when replacing the chain, and always buy steel, as it is the safest option. Do not forget to lubricate. Keep your tires properly inflated, change your oil every two years at the very least, and do not let your brake pads get too worn out.

The Battery

The battery needs to have a steady electrolyte level and filled often. Never use tap water; distilled water is much safer because it does not contain minerals and other contaminants that is in tap water.

5 Tips for Motorcycle Maintenance

It is always a good idea to keep the basics in mind while maintaining your motorcycle. Basic reminders refresh the foundation of an enjoyable riding experience. Here are some things to remembering while performing motorcycle maintenance:

• Maintain your motorcycle during standard maintenance intervals. Regularly maintaining your bike ensures that every part of your motorcycle is working as it should. Apply the standard maintenance according to the weather of your area, the model of your bike, and standard bike care.
• Get the right parts. As obvious as it may seem, getting the right parts means better riding quality. Use parts of high quality.
• Revive your bike properly after a long winter. Before storing it away for the winter, add a fuel stabilizer to save on fuel. Check the b rakes and clutch, and make sure all fluid levels are standard. Before your post-winter ride, allow your bike to run for several minutes to warm up.
• Keep a constant eye out for any issues that may arise. Oil leaks, dry rot, and other minor issues can become problematic if left alone.
• Receive professional maintenance. Always choose a mechanic that is familiar with your bike’s style or brand for the best service.

Chopper Lawyer is Here for You

If one aspect of the bike is not in the best state, then the quality of your riding experience is not in the best state. One thing can lead to another and it is always good to replace a problem as soon as it occurs. When your bike is maintained and healthy, you have done your part to ensure that your chances of an accident lessen. It is always better to be on the safe side, and maintaining your bike is the first and most important way to be safe while on the road. If you or someone you know has been injured or involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation.

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Preparations

This may not be a concrete thing to fit in your saddlebag, but the preparation of your bike is just as important as your toothbrush. Your motorcycle is your steel horse, and horses need to be healthy before they can be ridden. The following elements need to be checked and as good as new before a long distance ride:

• Oil and filter
• Air and fuel filters
• Fluid levels
• Throttle and brake cables
• Adjust and lube drive chain
• Tire pressure and tread
• Gauges, lights, horns, and signals
• Visual check

Do not add any complicated accessories or make any drastic changes right before a long trip; give your bike time (between two to three weeks) to adjust to any new changes. By the time of your trip, your bike will be comfortable with itself and ready to take you anywhere.

1.) Money

Make sure you leave for your trip with enough money for the two most important details: food for yourself and food for your motorcycle. Having enough money for three meals a day plus gas can become expensive, but worth it. Be prepared to carry extra spending money on your person for any other items.

2.) Medicine and Vitamins

It is always a good idea to take a one-a-day vitamin to stay healthy. Pack some medicine in case you begin to feel unwell. Aspirin is always a good idea to take along as well, but keep in mind that some side effects of aspirin include a lower body temperature and acting as an anti-coagulant.

3.) Motorcycle Luggage Racks and Saddlebags

Backpacks, while they may seem to be a good idea, will get in the way during a long ride. They will kill your posture and hurt your back, and the wind will catch them and cause distracting sounds. If you do not want your shoulders to get pinched as you are riding, invest in a motorcycle luggage rack. It is a great way to carry your luggage, cooler, or any other group of items! For the smaller articles, a saddlebag is a great way to keep things close to you and organized.4.) Toiletries

4.) Toiletries

Always bring the toiletries you usually use on a daily basis, or items that you think you may need. This includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, and deodorant. Chapstick is always a good article to bring along, and artificial tears can save the lubrication of your eyes.

5.) Water

It is always a good idea to hydrate. Pack your saddlebags or luggage with some water for the road to avoid dehydration in an unfamiliar area. Be sure to replenish the water during rest stops. Being hydrated gives you one less thing to be worried about while you are on the road.

Always Prioritize Safety

If you feel like you need to shut your eyes for a second, pull off the road, find a campground, and get lots of shut-eye. Make sure your gear and bike are always up to standard and check the variety of road changes as you cross county and state lines. Always remember that if you run into some trouble on the road and are a part of an accident, at Chopper Lawyer we are here to assist you with the law; contact us today.

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Because of the major liability associated with motorcycle riding, sometimes these types of cases are more difficult to represent. What makes a motorcycle accident case even more difficult to fight, is if the rider was not wearing a helmet when the accident occurred.

Failure to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle shows negligent behavior on the part of the rider, and sometimes makes it more difficult to bring about a good compensation for the motorcycle accident injuries. Still, in countless motorcycle accident lawsuits, a distracted or negligent car or truck driver is often at fault.

Whatever the case may be, motorcycle recalls also happen every once in a while, too. In this circumstance, the manufacturer is to blame for a motorcycle accident, due to faulty parts or construction. In 2005, 87,000 riders were injured, while more than 4,500 were killed. This was a 14 percent and 13 percent increase, from the prior year.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers service bulletins and posts recall information on its site. Let’s take a look at some recent motorcycle safety recalls.

2013 BMW R1200 GS

Problem: Front Suspension

BMW is recalling their 2013 R1200 GS motorcycles that were manufactured January 9th 2013 to February 8th 2013. The front fork tube may loosen, because of an insufficient torque of a locking bolt.

2012 Harley-Davidson VRSCDX

Problem: license plate bracket mounting screw

Harley-Davidson is recalling their 2012 VRSCDX, as the license plate bracket assembly’s mounting screws might loosen and the assembly may separate from the rear fender. This defect might cause contact with the rear tire, which could cause the license plate bracket to rotate, possibly damaging the rear brake line.

2013 Triumph Speed Triple

Problem: turn signal

The 2013 Triumph Speed triple is undergoing a motorcycle safety recall, too – model year 2012-2013 Daytona 675, Street Triple, Speed Triple, and Tiger 800 motorcycles, specifically. Because of an error in manufacturing, the turn signal stems on the front and rear of the motorcycle may break easily.

2009-2012 Can-Am Spyder (three-wheeler and other models)

Problem: leaking vapors / fuel cap

The popular three-wheeler is being recalled because its fuel vapor canister vent hose has been leaking vapors. These vapors could get trapped in the enclosed engine compartment. It’s possible that they could ignite and catch fire.

Also, the 2009 Can-Am Spyder GS, 2009-2012 Spyder RS, and 2010-2012 Spyder RT models are being recaled. The fuel caps on these models may not fit properly onto the fuel tank filler neck. If the caps don’t seal like they should, there is the possibility for fuel vapors to leak, again, offering the threat of igniting and burning.

2012 Ducati 1199 Panigale

Problem: exhaust butterfly valve, uniball bearing, loose screws, swingarm shaft pivots, cylinder reservoir hose.

The first recall concerns a problem with the exhaust butterfly valve bowden cable cover, which has the potential to melt or burn because of excess heat of the catalytic converter, and could result in smoke or fire.

The next recall concerns an incorrect assembly of a uniball bearing on the damper rod eyelet. In turn, this could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Another recall of the Ducati has to do with the screws that secure the steering damper to the steering head. Apparently, they could call out, because an insufficient amount of Loctite was applied to the threads, upon assembly.

The fourth motorcycle safety recall concerns the right and left swingarm shaft pivots. These can loosen, and can cause the driver to lose control.

Lastly, the master cylinder reservoir hose might interfere with the threading end of the reservoir retaining screw.

Reach Out To A Personal Injury Attorney

If you or someone you know has been injured to due the negligence of these motorcycle manufacturers, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer, today!

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