Taking your motorcycle out in the winter can be a thrilling experience. While you may be hoping to enjoy the wonders of winter on your motorcycle, it is important to acknowledge the safety risks and plan accordingly so you can avoid a collision and the catastrophic injuries that often follow. Cold-weather riding poses unique risks that should be respected as a motorcycle rider.
The benefits that come with riding in the cold weather are undeniable, but it is crucial that you are aware of the potential negative consequences that could follow. However, no matter how prepared you are, you have no control over how other motorists drive in the winter weather. If you suffer devastating injuries after taking your motorcycle out for a winter spin, highly skilled Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer Rand Spear, The Accident Lawyer, is here to help you demand justice and recover the compensation that is rightfully yours.
Rand Spear, The Accident Lawyer, Offers 5 Essential Tops for Winter Motorcycle Riding
Motorcyclists take their bikes out during the winter season more commonly than you might think. Even in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where the weather can often turn cold and blustery during the winter months, bikers continue to make the most of the winter weather. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) uncovered some surprising facts and stats about car crashes and motorcycle accidents in the winter season:
- There were 115,938 total motor vehicle wrecks in PA in 2022
- That same year, there were more than 67,112 injuries and 1,179 fatalities
- Of these collisions, 3,475 involved motorcycles, 3,148 involved motorcyclist injuries, and there were 200 motorcyclist fatalities
- 13,116 of these accidents involved rain and fog, while 8,449 involved freezing rain, sleet, or snow
- 5,154 of these accidents occurred due to slush or snow on the roads, while ice patches and ice on the roadways caused 3,425
Unfortunately, data obtained by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) is not much better. The data for 2021 was released in October 2023, and according to this data, New Jersey saw a total of 221,259 motor vehicle accidents, 48,962 injuries, and 667 fatalities. Of these, there were 5,932 motorcyclist fatalities, which accounted for 14% of all motor vehicle accident deaths.
1. Do Not Forget to Check the Weather Forecast
When you are getting ready to take your bike out on the roads during the winter season, it is crucial that you remember to check the weather forecast. Even a sunny day can quickly become disastrous if the weather changes quickly. It is also important to check the daily temperatures so you have a better idea of what temperature you will be exposed to while riding at speed.
2. Dress for the Weather Conditions
Do not forget to dress for the winter weather. You may want to layer up as you head for the roads instead of wearing thicker materials. For example, you may want to wear a wicking layer, an insulating layer, a waterproof shell, and head or neck protection to protect against the windchill. Remember, it is better to overcommit than undercommit, as layers can always be unzipped or removed and placed in your motorcycle’s storage area for convenience.
3. Consider Investing in High-Quality, Heated Motorcycle Gear
With the winter weather comes serious cold, particularly when you reach riding speed. For this reason, it may be a good idea to invest in heated motorcycle gear, such as gloves, jackets, pants, vests, motorcycle helmets, and even socks. It may also be in your best interests to have a heated vest or jacket stored on your motorcycle at all times.
4. Plan for the Effect of the Elements on Your Motorcycle
Riding in the cold can have a significant impact on your motorcycle. You may need to decrease your rider lean angle and take additional safety precautions when calculating stopping distances or navigating corners. Be sure to check the following motorcycle elements before you take your bike out for a cold-weather ride:
- Fluid levels
- Battery function
- Tire tread and pressure
5. Make Necessary Motorcycle Modifications
Motorcycle modifications are not uncommon, but certain types of winter-related modifications may help you stay comfortable while riding in the winter. For example, you may want to add a larger windscreen to block the airflow over your body. You could also install handlebar covers, handguards, heated hand grips, or even a heated seat.
What to Do if the Winter Weather Catches You by Surprise
If the weather surprises you while you are out for a winter ride, there are certain things you can do to protect yourself. First, be aware of the potential decrease in temperature or the onset of a storm. You may need to stop in at a gas station to layer up or consider doing push-ups or jumping jacks to increase blood circulation to keep yourself warm.
Recognize Hypothermia Warning Signs
Another serious risk of riding your motorcycle in the winter is the potential for hypothermia. Recognizing cold-induced fatigue could ultimately save your life. Some of the most common warning signs associated with the onset of hypothermia include:
- Trouble breathing
- Slower reaction times
- Shivering
- Inhibited mental clarity
- Loss of mobility
- Pasture hunching
When You Have Suffered Serious Injuries in a Winter Motorcycle Wreck, a Nevada Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
There is no denying that a motorcycle ride in the cold weather can be an exhilarating experience. However, it is important to consider the weather conditions, whether it is safe to take your bike out in the winter weather and ensure your motorcycle is running optimally before you do so. Even after taking the necessary precautions, there is still a risk that you could suffer catastrophic injuries if you are involved in a collision.
For this reason, it is crucial that you prepare accordingly. If you have been seriously injured in a winter motorcycle crash and are unsure of how to get through these difficult times, Demand Rand. Fill out our convenient contact form or call our office to get started as soon as today to request a 100% free consultation with highly experienced motorcycle accident lawyer Rand Spear.
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