Florida motorcycle riders have to pay more attention to safety on the roads than motorists to avoid accidents. This is especially true when riding a motorcycle during or just after a rainstorm, when the roads are wet and slick.
There are many hazards a motorcyclist may have to deal with in these conditions, such as reduced traction, increased braking distances, hydroplaning, underwater road hazards, or obstacles and decreased visibility, to name a few.
If you ride a motorcycle in Florida, you can pretty much expect to run into rain sometime while you’re out on the road. However, there are some things you can do to make the ride safer.
Riding in the Rain
Even a light shower can create hazardous road conditions for any vehicle on the road, including motorcycles. There are certain safety precautions every driver should follow during a rainstorm, no matter if they’re riding a motorcycle or behind the wheel of a big rig truck:
- Turn your lights on, so everyone can see you.
- Slow down — your brakes don’t work as well when the pavement is wet and slick.
- Maintain a safe distance between you and the other drivers
- Avoid sudden, heavy breaking if possible. Ease off the accelerator when you need to slow down rather than using the brakes to help maintain control.
- Be extra cautious when passing and merging into traffic
- Don’t ride through high water.
Be Prepared Before You Hit the Road
Is your motorcycle ready for a ride through the rain? The last thing you’ll want to deal with while riding during a rainstorm is mechanical problems. Properly maintaining a motorcycle will help you avoid a lot of problems while you’re out on the road, no matter what the weather conditions may be. Some things to check before you hit the road include:
- Tires – air pressure and tread wear
- Brakes
- Chain – make sure it’s properly lubed
- Electronic components and fuel lines are waterproofed
- Lights
Wear Waterproof Gear
Wearing the proper gear can help protect you when you encounter bad weather.
In the rain, a helmet is critical not only for protecting the head but also allowing the rider to see the road conditions clearly. A full helmet will protect your face from the rain. It’s recommended that you wear a clear visor or clear yellow (cuts down the glare, increases contrast) visor rather than a dark, tinted one. Other helpful features you might want to consider include anti-fog breath guards and wipers to keep the visor clear of rain.
Waterproof gloves and boots are also recommended. The gloves will keep your hands dry and allow you to maintain a firm grip on the handle bars.
You may also want to consider wearing a rain-suit while riding.
If It Gets Too Bad, Stay Off the Road
It’s a good idea to just stay off the road, pull over, if there’s rain and:
- Lightning
- High Winds
- Storm surges
- Flooding
Protect Your Rights after a Motorcycle Accident in Florida
Have you been injured in a Florida motorcycle accident that was caused through the negligence of another driver? Tania Rivas is a motorcycle injury lawyer in Lutz who has successfully represented Florida motorcyclists injured in accidents in Lakeland, Winter Haven, Lutz and other central Florida communities.
Depending on the circumstances in your case, we may be able to help you obtain compensation for damages such as pain, suffering, medical expenses and economic losses. Don’t put off seeking help — statute of limitation laws apply in Florida motorcycle injury cases.
Contact the Rivas Law Group to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with one of our highly experienced Lutz motorcycle accident attorneys. In most instances, there are no up-front charges for our representation, and we only collect a fee after we win your case.
