Riding a Motorcycle in Ontario? Here Are Some Risks to Be Aware of

Motorcycles are a great way to enjoy the open road and the beautiful scenery of Ontario. It's no wonder that so many people in our province take part in this exhilarating hobby. However, it's important to be aware of the risks that come with it, as motorcycles are 15 times more likely to be involved in accidents than cars. In fact, motorcyclists accounted for about 14% of all fatalities by road users in 2020. While these numbers may seem scary, knowing the potential dangers can help you avoid them and ride safely.

If you're an avid rider or thinking of getting into this hobby, it's crucial to understand the risks and how to protect yourself in case of an accident. In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common accidents that motorcyclists experience and what you can do to stay safe.

Drunk Driving

Unfortunately, drunk driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Ontario. While this is a sad reality, it's essential to be aware of it and take extra precautions when you're out on the road. Between 2008 and 2014, around 25% of all motorcycle deaths were due to alcohol. However, there is some good news: impaired driving fatalities have been on a downward trend over the past decade. That said, depending on where you live, drunk driving could still be more common in your area than in others.

Environmental Conditions

When you're riding a motorcycle, it's not just other drivers that you need to pay attention to; you also need to be aware of environmental conditions. In rural areas of Ontario, dirt roads and poorly maintained roads can make riding more challenging. Rainstorms, nighttime driving, and wildlife are other factors that can affect your ride. Always check the weather report before you head out on a ride, and make sure to wear protective equipment such as a helmet, gloves, and a jacket to prevent injuries in case of an accident. In fact, wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of death during an accident by 37%. Make sure to stay protected at all times!

Left Turn Accidents

Left turn accidents are one of the most common accidents for motorcyclists. While some drivers may complain about loud motorcycles, the reality is that motorcyclists are often the victims of other vehicles. This is usually due to visibility issues or driver negligence. It's crucial for drivers to look out for motorcyclists and check intersections before making a turn.

Injuries

In case of an accident, motorcyclists can suffer from a range of injuries, including physical or emotional scars, fractures, head or brain injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries. Wearing a helmet can reduce the severity of head injuries, but it's important to seek medical attention right away if you're involved in an accident. If you're ever involved in a motorcycle accident, it's important to have a motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you recoup some assets. While auto insurance can provide a base for medical expenses and lost wages, it often doesn't cover the full extent of damages. That's where we come in. At Findlay, we're dedicated to helping you get the best possible settlement for your injuries so that you can get back to your daily routine. We understand how difficult it can be to recover from injuries, and our mission is to help you along that journey for as long as it takes.