A motorcyclist may need to stop on the roadway or pull over to the side. A biker may still be in danger since drivers do not always see motorcyclists. Even though the driver is obligated to exercise due care and spot a motorcyclist, a biker must still take their own steps to make themselves visible and remain safe. If the driver has breached their own duty of care, a motorcyclist may be able to recover substantial financial compensation for their injuries.
Here are some steps that motorcyclists must take when they pull over to the side of the road.
Move the Bike to Safety
First, a motorcycle should never stop in the middle of the roadway when they can avoid it. A biker’s first move should be to pull over to the shoulder if they are able. Even if the motorcycle is not fully operational, the biker should try to move out of the middle of traffic. A motorist would simply not be able to avoid hitting the back of a motorcycle, especially when they have no warning that the bike is stopped in front of them.
Pull All the Way Over to the Right
If you are stopped on the shoulder, you should make sure that you are as far on the side of the road as possible. Initially, you should pull over to the right shoulder if you can. Cars in the left lane are usually traveling faster, and the driver may not see you. Further, there is a chance that you can be pinned between the car and a retaining wall if you are struck. When you reach the right shoulder, move to the extreme side so you are not close to traffic passing you.
Be as Visible as Possible
Reflective gear can help motorists see you under any circumstance. This gear will be even more critical if you need to stop on the side of a roadway. Further, a motorcycle is equipped with four flashing turn signals. If you are stopped, you should engage all four turn signals to make yourself more visible to drivers. Leave them on until you pull back into traffic.
Stay in Contact With Other Riders
If you are riding in a group, it is essential that you let the other riders know of your intentions to pull over to the side. Ensure you engage with them through hand signals so they know that you will move to the side of the road. If possible, one rider in your group should pull over with you, although you do not want to have too many bikers clustered together on the side of the road.
You May Be Eligible for Financial Compensation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, there are steps you must take to put yourself in a position to receive a settlement check. The most important thing you can do for yourself is get the medical care you need to diagnose and treat your injuries. You must adhere to your medical care and follow up with your health appointments and legal cases. Then, you should contact a motorcycle accident attorney for legal help if you seek financial compensation.
Contact a New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Bikers Have Rights
A New Jersey motorcycle accident attorney at Bikers Have Rights can wage a legal fight on your behalf if the actions of another driver have injured you. Motorcycle accident claims present unique challenges; you need an attorney to handle them. You can schedule a free initial consultation by calling us today at 215-525-1616 or 877-333-0300 or contacting us online. Our office is located in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, and we help injured motorcyclists in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.