There is no better feeling than hopping on your motorcycle on a warm summer day. However, an afternoon ride can quickly turn catastrophic if you are not careful. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of sustaining injuries in an accident, so we all must take every reasonable precaution to avoid an accident. Please brush up on these five ways to keep yourself safe when riding a motorcycle this summer.
If you were in a motorcycle accident in Arizona because of another person’s negligent actions, contact the Arizona motorcycle accident attorneys at the Jensen Phelan Law Firm. We can launch a full investigation into your accident, estimate your claim’s value, and guide you through the legal process.
Arizona is hot, and it is common for temperatures to reach 100 degrees or higher. You might not even realize how hot it is when riding. That is why you must keep yourself hydrated before and during a motorcycle ride. While it might be tempting to have a cold beer or morning coffee, both will dehydrate you. You should bring a water bottle with you or wear a water backpack, so you do not have to pull over to hydrate. Although, pulling over to take a rest every hour can ensure you do not feel fatigued.
What is the most valuable thing you have? Your brain! You never know the future risks, so wear that helmet. You most likely already understand the importance of wearing the appropriate gear, such as pants, helmets, and gloves, when riding a motorcycle. However, did you know that you should change out your protective gear for each season? Try wearing wind-breaking material since it can help reduce the amount of heat on your body. Not only can swapping out your gear keep you cool, but it may help prevent heat exhaustion and keep you safe on Arizona roads.
Since summers in Arizona are hot, you will want to know the temperature before going on a motorcycle ride. Also, check on the wind conditions. While we know it does not often rain in Arizona, a thunderstorm can still appear. By checking the weather conditions before you go for a ride, you can prepare yourself and plan for heat, wind, and rain.
Arizona road workers often use a tar-like substance to fill in road cracks. People often call these “tar snakes,” and they can be hazardous when it is hot. Avoid these whenever possible. However, there may be some instances where it is impossible to avoid these road patches. If you feel that your rear tire is sliding out, stay calm and slow down. Never try to over-correct yourself as you may lose control of your bike and crash.
Heat exposure for long periods can be dangerous. Our bodies can only handle so much heat at a time. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye out for symptoms that may lead to heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Some early signs of a heat-related illness include:
Remember, the more you sweat, the more fluids your body is losing. Never wait until you are parched to drink water. Staying hydrated is your best chance to avoid a heat-related illness.
Recovering compensation after a motorcycle accident can be challenging. You will need to gather enough evidence to prove the other driver’s negligence directly caused the collision. Additionally, insurers tend to offer low settlement amounts, so you will most likely have to enter into negotiations. In these situations, you need an Arizona motorcycle accident attorney on your side.
At the Jensen Phelan Law Firm, we will always act with your best interests in mind while working to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. We have experience handling these cases, and you can be confident that we will do everything possible to secure a favorable outcome. Call (928) 778-2660 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.