As soon as the weather breaks in New Jersey, it becomes motorcycle season. That means taking your bike out on the first day the sun is warm. But, before you do so, it’s a good idea to remember a few things.
First, most drivers seem to forget how to share the road with motorcycles by the time it is warm enough to ride. Second, your bike likely sat in storage for at least a few months and needs some reconditioning to be safe. Speak with a New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer from Kwartler Manus if injured in a crash.
Check Your Bike
Before anything else, invest in a full inspection of your bike. If you cannot take it in for a spring tune-up or wait that long to take it out for a ride, there are several things you can do now on the road that make a bit of a difference.
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Check your tires for proper inflation. This is the most common problem after the cold winter months. Make sure the proper PSI is met, especially if it is still cold outside, since cold air reduces pressure.
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Look for signs of damage. It is not uncommon for pests to make their way into the small components of motorcycles as they prepare for the cold months. That burrowing and digging, often from mice or chipmunks, can cause substantial damage not only to tires and components but also to the electrical system.
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Fluids and battery inspections are necessary. You do not want to break down on a busy highway because your motorcycle cannot operate properly.
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Check the lights. That is especially important if you are heading out early in the morning or late at night. Since the sun still sets early, you will need to use your lights sooner each day.
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Double-check the lubrication of all cables to ensure they are tight and clean, which helps reduce the risk of failures and falls.
While all of this is important, it is also necessary to check your riding gear and helmet. Be sure that everything fits well and is in good condition. You may need to do some cleaning if you have not placed your helmet on in some time. Be sure you can see well, and every component is tight.
Preparing for the New Jersey Roads
Motorcycle riders in New Jersey often face unavoidable concerns or problems they cannot prepare for in advance. Be vigilant as you manage your first rides and expect the other drivers on the road with you not to follow the laws. Here are some steps you can take.
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Watch for debris. Roadways in New Jersey after the winter are notoriously pocked with potholes and debris, both of which can create very unsafe conditions for riders. It is up to you to monitor conditions closely, especially as snow melts and hidden debris becomes more visible.
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Slick conditions are common. Springtime temperatures change rapidly, and once they dip into the low 30s, ice can quickly accumulate. Areas out of the direct sunlight are more likely to become slick easily. Black ice is a very real threat on all roadways after the sun goes down.
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Other drivers may not know how to share the road with you. Drivers are not as likely to see a motorcycle rider on the road with them. They do not remember to look twice for a bike rider before opening a car door, making a left-hand turn, or switching lanes.
In every situation, it is up to you, the motorcycle rider, to be conscious of what others are doing and not doing. Doing so protects you from accidents and injuries. Avoid trusting that other drivers will keep you safe. Put more distance between you and the vehicles in front of you. Be cautious when heading through intersections. Improve your defensive driving skills across the board.
What to Do When There Is an Accident
This is also a good time to refresh your understanding of what to do in the event of an accident. When possible, move yourself out of harm's way. Call 911 and then wait for help. In the meantime, there are a few additional steps you can take to protect yourself.
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Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your bike.
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Get the names and contact information for all parties involved, including passengers, drivers of other vehicles, and witnesses.
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Get medical care immediately. By doing this, you make it clear your injuries stem directly from the accident.
Once you take these steps, put your legal team to work. Our New Jersey motorcycle lawyer at Kwartler Manus becomes your reliable resource for getting justice. We can handle the insurance companies for you. We will gather the evidence and build your maximum claim.
Request a Free Consultation with a New Jersey Motorcycle Attorney Now
At Kwartler Manus, our motorcycle accident lawyer in New Jersey is an advocate for victims. We hold those who hurt you accountable to the fullest level allowed under the law. Set up a free consultation to discuss your rights with us before you settle your case.
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