Dallas is one of the areas of the US where the winter is warm enough that motorcycle riders can stay on their bikes year round. There are usually a few days where it’s not advisable and a couple where it’s downright foolhardy, but it’s usually fine to ride in Dallas. If you want to avoid being part of a car accident on your bike, however, winter motorcycling requires some special considerations.
As if you needed another reason to wear one, there are several reasons to wear a helmet in winter. First, it provides a great deal of warmth and increases rider comfort. It also prevents you from being struck by precipitation and debris kicked up from the road. Winter weather sometimes means that there is sand and other road maintenance materials on the roads and they can blind you if you get a good amount thrown up by a passing vehicle.
When roads become icy, crews sometimes put sand on them in generous amounts, particularly on the corners. Sand on corners, of course, is one of the major enemies of motorcyclists. Be very wary of this during the winter months. There may also be salt on the road, and this can ruin your traction when cornering, as well.
Temperature is a major consideration when motorcycling in the winter. Anyone with some experience can tell you that going 35 miles per hour or faster makes it seem a lot colder out. Be sure to wear clothes appropriate to the weather. Leather jackets provide good insulation against wind, but be sure you have something underneath to hold your body heat in.
Because it gets darker earlier in the winter, you have to be prepared for more night driving. You also have to take into consideration the temperature drop after sundown. Always check the weather forecast before you take your bike out. Remember that high winds make it much colder in the winter and that this problem is only compounded when you’re on a bike.
If you’re in a wreck, an accident personal injury attorney may be able to help you. No matter what the season, motorcyclists have as much right to the road as anyone else. Be sure that yours is respected and, if they’re not and you’re injured because of that, consider talking to an attorney about seeking compensation for your injuries and financial damages.
RASANSKY LAW FIRM
2525 McKinnon Street
Dallas, Texas 75201
CALL US AT 1-877-331-4156
