Motorcyclists without adequate experience should avoiding riding a motorcycle in the rain as it can be much riskier compared to riding in dry conditions. Riding in adverse weather conditions is generally not safe, and riders should avoid it whenever possible. Unfortunately, sudden rainstorms can occur in New York, and motorcyclists can find themselves unexpectedly caught in these situations.
It is not uncommon for motor vehicle drivers to blame motorcyclists after being involved in an accident, so it is a good idea to guard yourself against legal action. You should not hesitate to speak with an experienced Long Island motorcycle accident lawyer if you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle crash. Although motorcyclists are frequently blamed for causing devastating accidents, the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP can assist you in proving that you were not at fault and in seeking the compensation that you deserve.
What Makes Riding a Motorcycle in the Rain Dangerous?
Operating a motorcycle in the rain is dangerous for many reasons. Some of the most substantial dangers involved with driving a motorcycle in adverse weather conditions include the following:
- Poor visibility. Visibility decreases for you and others on the road in adverse weather conditions. Rain running down a motorcycle visor can substantially reduce a motorcyclist’s field of vision, and cold temperatures can cause fogging. Lowered visibility combined with wet roads can quickly cause crashes. One of the best ways to avoid visibility issues is by treating your helmet with anti-fog solutions or visor inserts. Make sure to wear clothing that is highly visible when riding a motorcycle in the rain to make sure you can be seen more easily by others, as well.
- Slippery roads. In adverse weather conditions, roads become slippery and more deadly for all vehicle operators. Because motorcyclists have fewer contact points with the ground, they are at increased risk of losing traction when the road is wet. You should operate your motorcycle smoothly during wet conditions and pursue dry lines to remain upright. Additionally, you should implement small throttle increments and early braking while riding during rainy weather.
- Remain cautious of the first signs of rain and adverse weather. Roads are most deadly to ride on in the first hour of rain because rain combines with other slippery substances like oil on the surface of the road. When it is possible to do so, the best thing to do is to wait out a rainstorm. If you are unable to do so, you should pull over to the side of the road to equip yourself with adequate gear like a waterproof jacket. Remember, it is easier to safely operate your vehicle if you are dry.
How to Stay Safe While Riding a Motorcycle in the Rain
Motorcyclists should remember to follow certain safety advice while riding in inclement weather conditions. Because motorcycles are substantially smaller than other vehicles on the road, motorcyclists are routinely hard to spot for motor vehicle drivers. Difficulty being spotted can lead to serious accidents. As a result, motorcyclists should always pay attention to their surroundings when riding in the rain. Some tips that motorcyclists should remember to follow when riding in the rain include the following:
- Despite the shape of a motorcycle’s tires, the rain often greatly reduces traction. Unfortunately, even light rain can result in deadly road conditions. Keep your vehicle trained toward dry roads as much as possible
- Remember to reduce your speed in the rain and allow for greater braking distance. Because tire traction lessens in the rain, motorcyclists should do everything possible to handle the vehicle safely.
- Make sure to pull over to a safe location and take a break if you notice that rain is coming down particularly hard. The visibility of riders is substantially reduced in rainy weather.
How to Pursue Damages After an Accident From Riding a Motorcycle in the Rain
If you operate a motorcycle in the rain and end up in a crash due to another party’s inadequate driving, you might be able to pursue financial compensation for your injuries. To be eligible for compensation following a motorcycle crash, you will need to prove several things, which include:
- The responsible motorcyclist owed you a duty of care. When driving a motorcycle on public roads, all motorists owe one another a duty of care. This means that all motorists must operate vehicles in a manner that is lawful and safe. In situations involving motorcycle crashes, all motorcyclists must operate vehicles in accordance with New York law.
- The responsible driver did not fulfill their duty of care. If a motorcyclist or motorist caused an accident because they did not fulfill the duty of care they had, you might be owed compensation. Some examples of duty of care breaches include unsafely changing lanes and driving while intoxicated. In the rain, snow, and adverse weather conditions, driving at or below the speed limit can still be viewed as speed if it is too fast for road conditions. If you bear partial responsibility for a crash, you can still obtain compensation from the other responsible party in some situations.
- The other party’s negligence caused you harm. The last step in establishing that you are owed compensation is establishing that the other motorist’s actions resulted in you facing economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include things like medical bills as well as lost wages. Non-economic harm includes pain and suffering.
Avoid Having Adverse Weather Conditions Impact Your Compensation
Safety is greatly reduced when operating a motorcycle in the rain, but sometimes motorcyclists have little choice but to face such conditions. It is a good idea to ride your motorcycle smoothly, keep up your visibility, and stay cautious when riding in bad weather. You might do all of these things and still end up in an accident due to another party’s negligent operation of a vehicle. In these cases, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney. The lawyers at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP are prepared to fight for the compensation that accident victims deserve. Contact our law office today to schedule a free case evaluation.
