There are many ways bikers can help prevent motorcycle accidents. One of these is taking a motorcycle safety course. In Georgia, there are two ways one can obtain a motorcycle license. The first is to directly apply at the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
This requires passing a written test, a vision test, and an on-motorcycle skill test. The other way to obtain a motorcycle license is to complete a Motorcycle Safety Program Course. In addition to allowing you to obtain a motorcycle license, this program can also help you prevent motorcycle accidents.
Below, one of our Kingsland motorcycle accident lawyers explains how.
Better Riding Skills
A course in motorcycle safety can help experienced and novice riders alike develop or enhance their riding skills. These skills include:
- Braking: Proper braking technique is critical in emergencies and when trying to avoid accidents.
- Maneuvering: Operating a motorcycle requires precise balance and control. When a rider improves their skills through a safety course, they are better able to maneuver their vehicle at high speeds or in tight spaces. This can help bikers avoid accidents caused by unexpected turns or sudden obstacles.
- Turning corners: Turning corners can be a particularly difficult skill to learn on a motorcycle. However, safety courses can help bikers handle corners with more confidence and control, which reduces the risk of sliding out or losing control.
Defensive Driving Strategies
Defensive driving involves teaching motorcyclists how to foresee possible hazards on the road, as well as how to avoid them. Defensive driving strategies involve identifying and reacting to potholes, gravel, and other obstacles that are particularly dangerous for bikers. Defensive driving also entails teaching bikers to scan the road ahead and to remain aware of the actions of other motorists.
This can help motorcyclists avoid potential crashes caused by other drivers.
Knowledge of Traffic Laws
Many traffic laws apply specifically to motorcyclists, and safety courses will teach these, as well. The most important of these include:
- Lane position: All bikes should understand the correct lane position for their motorcycle. This is usually the leftmost third of the lane and many bikers remain in the left position for the majority of their time on the road. This makes them more visible to other motorists and provides them with a clearer view of the road ahead.
- Proper passing: Understanding the proper passing technique can limit the amount of time a biker spends in another motorist’s blind spot and ensure they have enough space to pass safely.
- Lane splitting: Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist travels between two stopped or slow-moving lanes of traffic. As in most states, lane splitting is illegal in Georgia.
- Speed limits: Bikers must remember that due to the smaller size and reduced stability of their vehicle, even if a posted speed limit is safe for cars, that does not mean it is necessarily safe for motorcycles.
Proper Safety Gear Use
Motorcycle safety courses can also provide bikers with insight regarding mandatory and required safety gear. Georgia is a universal motorcycle helmet state. This means that all motorcyclists and passengers must wear a DOT-approved helmet.
Riders must also use eye protection, which may include a full-face helmet. It is also recommended that all riders use additional protective gear, such as gloves, although this is not mandated by law. This safety gear can help lessen the severity of injuries in the event of a motorcycle accident.
More Confidence
When riders improve their knowledge and skills through a motorcycle safety course, it can help them feel more confident when they are on the road. When riders are more confident, it can help them avoid collisions by improving their anticipation, control, technique, and mindset. All of these can lead to not only a safer riding experience but one that is more enjoyable, as well.
Call Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Kingsland After a Crash
Even when riders take the recommended motorcycle safety courses, it is not a guarantee that an accident will not occur. If you or someone you love has been hurt, you need legal guidance from a Kingsland motorcycle accident lawyer. At Lawbike Motorcycle Injury Lawyers, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping victims understand their legal options after a crash, so they can make informed decisions and obtain the full and fair settlement they deserve.
Contact us to schedule a free review of your case and to learn more about how we can help.