Sunlight spills across the dry tarmac of King’s Highway, casting a warm, inviting glow. It’s the perfect time of year to hit the road on your favorite bike and enjoy the rush of wind through your hair. As most motorcyclists will tell you, motorcycles offer riders a unique sense of freedom and adventure. However, they also come with significant risks, especially in South Carolina. In fact, according to a study by LendingTree, South Carolina has the tenth-highest rate of fatal motorcycle crashes in the United States. Given these alarming statistics, it’s important to know how to prioritize safety on every ride. Attorney Matthew Breen, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach, shares invaluable safety tips to help you avoid accidents and enjoy the open road safely.
Safety Tips From a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Myrtle Beach
Motorcyclists face higher risks on the road because motorcycles offer far less protection than cars. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash compared to people in cars.
In South Carolina, the high rates of motorcycle accidents underscore the importance of closely following safety tips, such as the ones that follow.
Wear Protective Gear
Only motorcyclists under the age of 21 are required by South Carolina law to wear helmets. However, we strongly recommend that all riders wear a DOT-approved helmet. Helmets greatly reduce the risk of head injuries and death in the event of an accident. In addition to wearing a helmet, it’s important to use comprehensive protective gear. Long sleeves, pants, gloves, and boots that cover your ankles can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.
Ride Sober
It may seem obvious, but it needs to be stated: never operate your motorcycle after consuming alcohol or drugs. These substances severely impair judgment, slow reaction times, and raise the risk of you causing or experiencing an accident. Staying sober helps make sure you stay safe and alert on the road.
Be as Visible as Possible
Visibility is crucial when riding a motorcycle. Always use your motorcycle’s headlights, regardless of the time of day. Additionally, wear brightly colored or reflective clothing to increase your visibility to other drivers. Staying out of larger vehicles’ blind spots also significantly reduces the risk of accidents.
Practice Defensive Riding
Part of defensive riding is anticipating that other drivers may not see you or may make unexpected moves. Always remain alert, continually scan the road ahead and around you, and proactively plan escape routes in case another vehicle suddenly poses a danger. Respecting traffic rules (including speed limits, traffic signals, stop signs, and lane markings) makes your actions predictable to other drivers, reducing the chance of accidents.
Additionally, it’s important to keep a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Doing so gives you more time to react if the vehicle suddenly stops or slows down.
Remember that lane-splitting (riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic) is illegal in South Carolina and should also be avoided to maintain a safe distance from surrounding vehicles. Stay safely in your lane and follow traffic flow predictably. This practice ensures your safety and compliance with local laws.
Regular Motorcycle Inspections
Before every ride, take a moment to perform a thorough inspection of your motorcycle. Check that the tires are properly inflated and have enough tread, the brakes and lights are working correctly, and fluid levels are where they should be. These simple checks can help prevent breakdowns and mechanical failures while you’re on the road.
Take a Safety Course
Participating in the South Carolina Rider Education Program can significantly enhance your riding skills. These courses provide valuable training, including handling challenging road situations, refining motorcycle control, and responding quickly and effectively to potential hazards.
Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Myrtle Beach Will Protect Your Rights
Even when practicing safe riding habits, accidents can still happen due to factors outside your control. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, having a skilled legal advocate by your side is a must. Attorney Matthew Breen specializes in motorcycle accident cases and understands the specific challenges riders face in South Carolina.
Attorney Breen is dedicated to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation for your injuries. He will work tirelessly to recover damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain & suffering. When you choose Attorney Breen, you partner with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach committed to helping you achieve justice and financial security.
Book a Free Consultation With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Myrtle Beach
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Attorney Matthew Breen at Lowcountry Law, LLC offers a free, no-obligation consultation. Conveniently located in Myrtle Beach and Mount Pleasant, Attorney Breen is ready to provide the strong legal representation you deserve. Contact our motorcycle accident lawyer in Myrtle Beach today and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
