Some avid motorcycle riders may choose to continue riding long after others have put their motorcycles in storage. Some might argue that the best time of year to ride is in the winter. There are fewer motorcycles on the road, and you also don’t have to worry about overheating in your gear. However, riding a motorcycle in the winter differs in many ways than when compared to riding in the summer months. 

How to Stay Safe This Holiday Season

Here are a few tips to stay safe when riding this holiday season:

Avoid Drinking and Riding

Holiday drinks are a common way to celebrate the holidays. However, drinking any alcohol at all significantly increases your risk of being in an accident. Numerous studies have found that not only does alcohol impair your riding capability, but it also reduces your ability to respond to other drivers.

Check the Weather Before Leaving

Winters in New Jersey can be unpredictable. While it might be sunny and no sign of snow when you leave in the morning, the roads can be covered with slick ice by the time you leave. Always check the weather before leaving so you can decide if the roads are safe enough to ride. Have backup transportation in case the roads get too dangerous.

Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

It may be more tempting to skip routine maintenance during the winter months as you spend less time on your motorcycle. However, this may mean that it’s even more important to do so. Storing your motorcycle in the garage for a few months at a time can lead to mechanical problems, which can contribute to an accident.

Avoid Distractions

Distractions can be just as dangerous as riding while under the influence. This not only means avoiding using your phone but also keeping your focus ahead. The best way to respond to dangerous situations is to be aware. Avoiding distractions when riding is also an important part of driving defensively.

Decrease Speed

Decreasing your speed, especially when you come up to large areas of traffic, or potentially slippery roads can help you stay safe. Roads that are in rural areas are less likely to be salted, which can be dangerous to motorcyclists. Decreasing your speed can also help you manage unexpected obstacles, like drivers slamming on their brakes.

Check Tires

Your tires are very important to safe winter driving. You rely on your tires to provide you with the traction you need to come to a stop. Make sure you check your tire’s tread depth and replace or rotate them as needed.

Choose the Right Gear

Winter roads aren’t the only risk involved with winter riding. The temperatures can also get cold, which can lead to frostbite. Make sure you invest in good winter riding gear that can keep you warm. This may also be a good time to upgrade your helmet to one that is frost-proof. Dressing in layers can also help you manage the unpredictable New Jersey weather.

If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident this winter, make sure you know your rights. Be sure to receive medical care, and then consider reaching out to a motorcycle accident lawyer.

Contact an Elizabeth Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. Attorney Andrew Prince Esq. represents clients injured because of a motorcycle accident in Jersey City, Elizabeth, Trenton, Clifton, and throughout New Jersey. Call (908) 304-9187 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 136 Central Avenue, Clark, New Jersey 07066, as well as an office in West New York, NY.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.