The long northern winter is fading into memory and warm spring days are just over the horizon. It’s a great time of year to hop on your motorcycle. From the winding hills and shade of the forests along the Pacific Rim Highway (B.C. Highway 4) or the sights of Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (B.C. Highway 99), British Columbia offers some of the most scenic and challenging motorcycle touring routes in all of Canada. For those who prefer the challenges of riding off road., the British Columbia Off Road Motorcycle Association (BCORMA) website is a great resource for information on what B.C. has to offer.
The Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada (MCC) also reminds riders that May is motorcycle safety awareness month in Canada. After a winter’s layoff, time spent in preparation and planning for riding season can go a long way toward keeping riders on the road or trail safe. A little common sense is also a real asset, as reflected in the MCC’s tips for both on road and off road riders and the motorists who may encounter them.
Invest in the Right Equipment. For on and off-roaders alike, this means an approved helmet. Many motorcycle injuries – especially those trail riders – involve the face and jaw, so a model with a full face guard is a good investment. For maximum protection, road riders should consider investing in a long-sleeve jacket and full-length pants made of leather or another abrasion-resistant material. For off-roaders, contact with a tree or rock is a strong possibility in the event of a fall, and body armor is therefore highly recommended.
Learn (or Relearn) How To Ride Safely. Whether you are a novice or an experienced rider, a safe riding course will help you build or refresh your skills and build confidence. BCORMA operates an affordable National Safety Foundation-approved dirt bike school, and the MCC is asking road riders, passengers and motorists from across Canada to take the group’s Motorcycle Safety Pledge.
Be Aware of Road Hazards. A collision with a deer or moose can be deadly. Stay alert for sudden movement and reduce your speed in wooded areas where you are more likely to encounter one of these animals.
Be Extra Cautious at Night. The main danger here is not being seen by motorists. Be sure all of your bike’s lights are functioning properly, and wear a reflective vest or gear with reflective striping. Above all, always assume that drivers haven’t seen you and act accordingly. Reducing your speed also allows additional time to react and avoid a collision.
Tips for Motorists.
- Be alert at all times for the presence of motorcycles. Remember that they can be hard to see, even in daylight.
- Don’t depend entirely on your rear view mirrors. A rider in your blind spot can be easily overlooked. Always do a quick over the shoulder check before changing lanes or turning.
- Use extra caution at intersections, especially when making a left turn across an oncoming lane of traffic.
British Columbia Accident Lawyers
Whether you are a motorcyclist or motorist, if you have been injured by the negligence of another person, the experienced personal injury team at Diamond and Diamond is ready to help. Call our 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT or visit our website to speak to someone now. We offer free consultations and case evaluations. Our team of personal injury lawyers represents clients throughout British Columbia.
FAQ's
If I got hurt while driving a motorcycle, do I have special rights compared to car drivers?
If you get hurt while driving a motorcycle, you do not have any special rights in comparison to a car driver. Both kinds of vehicle users can claim for their medical expenses, lost income, and other costs. You can file your claim without a lawyer. But bear in mind that insurance companies tend to operate in a way that keeps how much they payout to a minimum. An experienced lawyer will be able to help you to make a more successful claim.
If I got hurt while riding a motorcycle, do I need a special kind of lawyer, or any personal injury lawyer will do?
If you get hurt while riding a motorcycle you do not need a special kind of lawyer. Any personal injury lawyer will be able to help you. However, if you can find one that is also a rider or has dealt with these kinds of cases in the past, it can prove t be helpful. For example, it is easier for someone who also rides a bike to interpret the accident scene photos and fully understand what happened and how to strengthen your case
Are motorcycle drivers less likely to successfully file a personal injury claim because of the inherently risky nature of motorcycles?
Motorcycle riders are not less likely to be successful with their personal injury claims. The fact that riding a motorbike is inherently riskier than driving a car is not a relevant factor when deciding how much you are paid. However, if the rider did something wrong or take as many safety precautions as possible arguing the case will become more difficult. Personal injury lawyers who have dealt with motorcycle-related accidents have the necessary experience to be able to counter those arguments.