Motorcycle Safety Checklist in Las Vegas

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable of all road users. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 5,000 people are killed in U.S. motorcycle crashes every year and thousands are injured.

Some motorcycle accidents are unavoidable. But, many collisions can be prevented with defensive driving, proper training, regular maintenance, and good judgment. Since you have no control over the actions of other drivers, it’s essential to do everything in your power to make sure your motorcycle trip is as safe as possible.

At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, the safety of all Nevada motorcyclists is paramount to us. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Las Vegas have put together the following overview of motorcycle safety tips to help you understand the risks and learn how to protect yourself on Nevada roadways. For more information, call us today.

What Can Go Wrong During a Motorcycle Ride?

Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but it has its share of risks. Knowing what can go wrong helps riders prepare and stay safe. Here are some key issues that can arise during a ride.

Mechanical Failures

Mechanical issues are a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Ensure your bike is in top shape by regularly following your operator’s manual safety checklist regularly. Check tire pressure, brake pads, brake fluid, and hydraulic fluid levels. Loose bolts or worn-out parts can lead to serious problems. Always maintain a regular maintenance schedule and replace tires when necessary. Keep an eye on the battery tender and fluid levels, and never skip a pre-ride inspection.

Visibility and Signaling Problems

Many accidents occur because other drivers fail to see motorcycles. Ensure your brake lights, turn signals, and headlights are working correctly. Nevada motorcycle laws require using proper signaling to alert other drivers of your intentions. Avoid blind spots of larger vehicles and use your lights effectively.

Road Conditions

Road conditions can change in an instant, and motorcycles are more sensitive to these changes than cars. Be wary of oil slicks, loose gravel, and wet surfaces. Nevada roadways can present unique challenges, so always be alert. Wear proper eye protection to shield against debris.

Rider Error

Human error is another significant factor. This includes speeding, not wearing a motorcycle helmet, or failing to follow traffic laws. Always ride with a valid motorcycle license and consider taking a motorcycle safety course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers courses that can improve your riding skills and knowledge.

Interaction with Other Vehicles

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making them vulnerable in traffic. Avoid tailgating, be cautious around passenger vehicles, and remember that lane splitting is not legal in Nevada. Watch for other motorists’ blind spots and always wear protective gear, including gloves and helmets, to mitigate injury in case of an accident.

Environmental Factors

Weather can greatly affect a motorcycle ride. Rain can make roads slippery, reducing tire grip and increasing stopping distances. Wind can push a bike off course, while extreme heat can lead to dehydration. Plan your rides according to the weather forecast, and always carry a first aid kit for emergencies.

Motorcycle Safety Checklist 

Riding a motorcycle in Las Vegas can be thrilling, but safety should always come first. Here’s a motorcycle safety checklist to help you stay safe on Nevada roadways.

Pre-Ride Inspection

Before every ride, perform a thorough pre-ride inspection:

1. Tires: Check tire pressure and tread depth. Replace tires if they’re worn out to ensure correct pressure and traction.
2. Brakes: Inspect brake pads and brake fluid levels. Ensure the front brake and rear brake are working properly.
3. Lights and Signals: Make sure brake lights, headlights, and turn signals are functioning correctly. Visibility to other vehicles is crucial.
4. Fluid Levels: Check oil, hydraulic fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant levels. Maintaining proper fluid levels helps your bike run smoothly.
5. Battery: Ensure your battery is charged. A battery tender can keep it in good condition.
6. Loose Bolts: Tighten any loose bolts. This can prevent parts from falling off during your ride.

Gear Up for Safety

Wearing the right gear can make all the difference in an accident:

1. Helmet: Always wear a DOT-approved helmet. It’s the most crucial piece of safety equipment.
2. Eye Protection: Use a face shield or goggles to protect your eyes from debris.
3. Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands and improve grip.
4. Protective Clothing: Wear a jacket, pants, and boots made of durable material. They protect you from road rash and other injuries.
5. Reflective Gear: Increase your visibility to other motorists, especially at night.

Stay Informed and Trained

Knowledge and training are key to safe motorcycling:

1. Motorcycle Safety Course: Consider taking a motorcycle safety course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation offers excellent programs.
2. Motorcycle License and Endorsement: Ensure your driver’s license has the proper motorcycle endorsement.
3. Operator’s Manual’s Safety Checklist: Follow the safety checklist provided in your bike’s operator’s manual.
4. Nevada Motorcycle Laws: Familiarize yourself with Nevada motorcycle laws, including lane splitting and other regulations.

Riding Tips for Safety

While riding, always keep these tips in mind:

1. Stay Visible: Avoid riding in other vehicles’ blind spots. Use your lights and signals effectively.
2. Maintain Distance: Avoid tailgating. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to react to sudden stops.
3. Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions. Watch for oil slicks, gravel, and other hazards.
4. First Aid Kit: Carry a first aid kit. It can be invaluable in case of an accident.
5. Test Ride: Before hitting busy roads, do a test ride to ensure everything is working properly.

Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance keeps your bike in top shape:

1. Maintenance Schedule: Follow the maintenance schedule outlined in your operator’s manual.
2. Fluid Changes: Regularly change your oil, brake fluid, and other fluids as recommended.
3. Replace Worn Parts: Replace brake pads, tires, and other worn parts promptly to ensure safe riding.

Legal and Support

Knowing your legal rights and where to seek help is essential:

1. Nevada DMV: Stay updated with the Nevada DMV for any changes in motorcycle regulations.
2. Legal Rights: Be aware of your legal rights in case of a motor vehicle accident.
3. Free Consultation: If involved in an accident, seek a free consultation with a legal expert to understand your options.

Nevada Motorcycle Laws

Under Nevada law, drivers must have a Class M license before they can operate a motorcycle. This involves completing an approved Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course or successfully passing the Nevada DMV written and skills tests. To operate a trimobile or moped, drivers must have a valid driver’s license of any class.

Additionally, any driver or passenger on a motorcycle, trimobile, or moped must wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards. Approved helmets have a sticker with the letters “DOT” on the outside back of the helmet. DOT approval means the government has certified that the device will help protect the wearer’s head and brain in the event of a motorcycle accident.

Furthermore, motorcyclists must obey all Nevada traffic laws, including avoiding lane splitting. This is when motorcyclists ride between vehicles instead of in a full lane, such as on the dotted white lines separating lanes. While lane splitting is prohibited, Nevada law does allow motorcyclists to share lanes by riding side-by-side with each other’s consent.

How to Best Protect Yourself as a Motorcyclist in Las Vegas 

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas, there are several steps you can take to protect your legal rights.

• Call for help. Motorcycle accidents often cause serious injuries and damages. Call 911 to get assistance as quickly as possible.
• Visit a medical professional. If you didn’t get medical attention when the accident happened, see a doctor as soon as possible. Medical reports will be essential pieces of evidence if you file a claim for your injuries.
• Gather evidence. Get the name and contact information of any driver involved in the collision, as well as anyone who witnessed the crash. Take pictures of your injuries, damages, and any other aspects of the wreck that you can, including skid marks, traffic signals, and road conditions. If police come to the accident scene, ask them for a copy of the official accident report.
• Contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Las Vegas. Motorcyclists often face unfair challenges when trying to get the compensation they’re owed after a wreck. Many insurance companies and jurors believe that motorcyclists are risk-takers, and those biases may encourage them to deny or reduce the motorcyclist’s claim — no matter who was at fault. The knowledgeable lawyers at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys know how to fight against this prejudice and stand up for the justice and compensation you deserve.

How THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys Can Help You

At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we’re prepared to handle all the details of your motorcycle accident claim. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can help gather evidence for your case, fill out all the paperwork needed for your claim, negotiate with insurers, and demand maximum compensation for your losses. You can count on our legal team to inform you about developments in your case from start to finish. Schedule a consultation with us today.