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Riding in the Rain: What Atlanta Motorcyclists Can Do to Stay Safe

 

Motorcycle Lawyer Atlanta Georgia

Atlanta, Georgia Motorcycle Lawyer:  While October is not notoriously a wet month for Georgians, surprise thunderstorms can occur anywhere and at any time in the South. If you are a motorcyclist in Atlanta, Athens, Marietta, or anywhere in the State of Georgia, it is important to ride safely no matter what Mother Nature may throw at you. Yet, riding safely in the rain often starts before the thunderstorm actually arrives.

Prepare for Rainy Weather Ahead of Time

Before a single rain drop falls, there are several things you can do to protect yourself and improve your chances of arriving safely at your destination.

  1. Ride with a full coverage helmet: Not only is a full coverage helmet safer, but when the rain comes, a full coverage helmet will protect your eyes and allow you to see farther in the storm.
  2. Dress in rain gear if you expect rain: Soggy clothes are a sure distraction when you are riding in the rain. If you expect a rainstorm, dress in waterproof clothing, boots, and gloves.
  3. Make sure your tires are in good shape: Premium aftermarket tires will give better wet road grip. In addition, be sure that your tires still have plenty of tread left (at least 3/16 of an inch) and make sure your tires are properly inflated. A slight increase in tire pressure can also help your tires grip well in wet conditions.
  4. Wear reflective clothing: Even when it is not raining, reflective clothing can help other drivers recognize your presence on the road. Yet when it is raining outside, a bright a reflective jacket, helmet, or bike can ensure that other drivers see you in their mirrors.

Be Extra Careful of Slippery Surfaces: Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorney

Once you have planned for the inevitable and both you and your bike are prepared for the rain, it is equally important to know how to maneuver your bike in a thunderstorm. Atlanta motorcyclists should be extra careful on slippery surfaces, such as crossing railroad tracks, man holes, and bridge gratings. In addition, painted surfaces are just as slippery for motorcyclists as metal surfaces—especially in the rain.

Negotiating a Turn in the Rain

It is never a good idea to slam on the brakes when you are on a motorcycle, but especially not when you are negotiating a turn in the rain. Atlanta motorcyclists should always slow down before a turn, keep the throttle neutral all the way through the turn, and be aware of all cars around them. In addition, you should initiate your turn gradually, downshift smoothly, and avoid abrupt throttle changes. Make sure you leave extra room between you and the vehicles in front of you while you are negotiating a turn, in case you need to slow down suddenly.

Sadly, even when motorcyclists drive carefully and take all the necessary safety precautions, Atlanta motorcycle accidents still occur. When this happens, you need an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney on your side. Your Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer will help you through the difficult time following an accident and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.

At Russ Brown Motorcycle Attorneys, we understand the complexities surrounding Atlanta, Georgia, motorcycle accidents—after all, we are motorcyclists too! Call us today for a Free Consultation or to learn more about BAM, our free roadside and legal assistance program. Call us today at 1-800-4-BIKERS.

 

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If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you need to protect your rights with a top motorcycle injury lawyer. Call 1-800-424-5377 to learn why you need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney on your side.  Biker Red is RussBrown.com’s Official Biker news, information and resources author.


2 Responses to “Riding in the Rain: What Atlanta Motorcyclists Can Do to Stay Safe”

  • Rob Fleming says:

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  • Rob Fleming says:

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