Know Your Legal Rights as a Motorcyclist

Make Safety the Priority this Spring

As spring arrives, all motorists need to take extra precaution as motorcyclists and cyclists return to the road. Motorcycle accidents can be life-threatening and can require expensive medical treatment and care. Early investigation of the accident is critical. At James H. Brown and Associates, our motorcycle accident lawyers utilize Accident Reconstruction Engineers to ensure evidence is preserved to properly investigate your case.

Motorcyclists have the same rights as drivers of other types of motor vehicles and must follow the same rules of the road. Motorcycles may appear to be travelling faster than they are because they are much smaller than other vehicles. As a result, motorcyclists may be criticized for speeding, risk-taking or disobeying the rules of the road. Our Accident Reconstruction Engineers analyze the pre-impact, impact, and post-impact phases of the collision to properly assess your case so that your rights are protected.

There are many causes of motorcycle accidents. New or inexperienced riders may make errors, especially when travelling at high speeds or through intersections. Road hazards, such as potholes and debris, can cause motorcyclists to lose control or collide with other vehicles to avoid the immediate hazard. The consequences can be much more severe than for drivers of other types of vehicles.

Know Your Responsibilities

Ensure you know your rights and responsibilities. You must have a valid Class 6 (Motorcycle) Licence to operate a motorcycle. Ensure the motorcycle is insured and registered. Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act requires by law that all motorcycles be insured and registered before being operated. Do not lend your motorcycle to anyone who does not have a valid Class 6 Licence and experience operating a motorcycle.

You must be at least 16 years of age before you can learn to ride a motorcycle. Only the number of passengers for which the motorcycle was designed to carry, can ride the motorcycle.

You must wear an approved motorcycle helmet at all times when operating a motorcycle. Always wear proper protective clothing designed for riding a motorcycle. Wear bright colours and ensure there are reflective strips on your motorcycle to make you more visible. Avoid loose clothing that could get caught in your motorcycle. Take frequent breaks, before you get tired. Wear earplugs to avoid fatigue while riding and to prevent permanent hearing loss.

Never ride a motorcycle or operate any type of vehicle after drinking alcohol or using drugs. Talk to your doctor to find out if any prescription or over the counter medications you are taking may affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle.

Take a Moment to Check

Check the condition of your motorcycle every time before you ride. Check the air pressure and tread of the tires. Look for any holes in the tires or nails stuck in the tread. Check the oil level and look for oil leaks. Always check the brakes before you ride. Ensure you are familiar with the controls and gauges.

If you notice any part of your motorcycle that needs maintenance, have your motorcycle properly repaired before you ride. This spring, take a moment before you ride to check the condition of your motorcycle and ensure you are physically and mentally prepared to ride.

If you are riding your motorcycle for the first time since last summer, be sure to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual for proper tune-up, maintenance and oil change, especially if your motorcycle has been in storage all winter.

There are numerous training courses available for both beginner and experienced motorcyclists. You can learn skills for managing emergencies.

Safety is the responsibility of all users of the road. As spring arrives, be extra watchful for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists who may be returning to the road for the first time since last summer.

Know Your Rights

Speak with the motorcycle accident injury lawyers at James H. Brown & Associates today.