The majority of motorcycle accidents involve a motor vehicle and, in many instances, the driver of the other vehicle did not practice safe driving behavior that could have prevented the accident.
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road than vehicles, and wearing protective gear – such as helmets and jackets – can help lessen injuries and save lives when a vehicle strikes a motorcyclist. Unfortunately, motorcyclists must often take the initiative when it comes to bolstering their safety on the road. One of the most effective ways to do that is to take a safety course that can provide life-saving, safe riding techniques.
SAFETY CLASSES TEACH RIDERS TO AVOID MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
There are many different types of motorcycle safety courses. Some even provide participants with motorcycles to ride, as well as safety equipment.
There are two common safety courses: one geared toward new riders, and one for riders who have years of experience.
In most states, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation provides these courses, which include:
- Basic Riding Course – The course provides instruction on different types of motorcycles, basic controls, effective ways to operate a motorcycle, and safe riding tips. The basic riding course is geared for beginning motorcyclists, and combines written lessons and actual riding time.
- Expert Riding Course – This course is for advanced and expert level motorcyclists who are not only seeking to improve their riding skills, but also want to learn about the risks of driving while intoxicated, as well as new laws that could affect their time on the road. Instruction includes lessons on swerving, braking quickly, and riding in adverse weather conditions.
In some states, riders who enroll in a state-approved safety course can waive the licensing test requirement, which typically includes a written exam, road testing, and meeting the vision standards.
Remember that states such as California require all new motorcyclists under the age of 21 to take a basic riding safety course before they can obtain a license.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS TAKE LIVES. SAFETY COURSES MAY SAVE THEM.
No safety course can guarantee that riders will completely avoid motorcycle accidents, but these courses can teach you the fundamentals of defensive driving, and avoid some dangerous situations. More importantly, you will better understand the tendencies of the unsafe drivers on the road that are the leading cause of wrecks.
Motorcyclists are often overlooked on the road, and when drivers don’t practice safe habits, tragedy can result. If you need a strong advocate after suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident, please call the experienced lawyers of Miller Kory Rowe LLP at (602) 648-4045 to schedule a consultation.
