Riding a motorcycle is one of the most freeing experiences on the road, but it comes with several risks. The inherent dangers of riding a motorcycle increase when bad weather like rain, fog, and snow develop while you’re driving.

Not only can bad weather affect your ability to control the motorcycle, but it also heightens your chances of being involved in an accident with another vehicle. Learn what to do if you’re caught in bad weather on a motorcycle and how Catalano Law can help in the event of an accident.

Navigating Bad Weather on a Motorcycle

Riding your bike on dry roads in the sunshine is ideal, but there are times when you get caught in bad weather on your motorcycle. The following are common dangerous weather situations for motorcyclists and what to do if you find yourself caught in the storm.

Hydroplaning:

Hydroplaning occurs when there is a large amount of water on the road’s surface, and a layer of water prevents your motorcycle’s tires from actually touching the road. The out-of-control feeling that results causes many road users to panic and lose control of their vehicle.

To prevent hydroplaning when driving on a wet road, reduce your speed. The higher your speed, the more likely it is that you will hydroplane. If you experience hydroplaning, the best thing to do is remain calm and coast it out. Don’t slam on your brakes or overcompensate with your steering. Make minor movements and try to keep your bike in a straight line. Avoid sliding or falling as both are very dangerous, especially with other drivers around.

Poor Visibility:

Poor visibility can be caused by weather conditions like snow, rain, or fog. It refers to your inability to see the road and the inability of other drivers to see your motorcycle. In poor visibility conditions, wear brightly-colored, reflective gear that is designed to stand out. Attach a safety flag to your motorcycle to increase your visibility to other drivers. The best thing you can do for your visibility is to pull over and wait out the storm, but if you must drive in poor conditions, leave plenty of room to brake effectively and travel slowly.

Rain:

The first 20 minutes of a rainstorm are the most dangerous because water mixes with the oil on the pavement, creating a slippery, wet surface. This increases your chance of hydroplaning or slipping. Rain also decreases visibility, leading to accidents between drivers who don’t see each other. Leave ample space between you and other vehicles and drive slowly when in the rain.

Fog:

Driving in fog lowers your visibility and the ability of other drives to see you clearly. Wear bright-colored safety gear to increase your visibility to other motorists and utilize your fog lights if you have them. Do not turn your high beams on in fog: high beams won’t cut through the fog; instead, they will reflect off of it, actually making it harder to see. Instead, use low-beam lights and even hazard lights if the fog is dense.

Wind:

Strong winds pose a particular threat to motorcyclists. Remain aware of your surroundings and pay special attention to large commercial vehicles. Commercial trucks pose a danger because they may tip over or lose cargo in strong winds, so giving them a wide berth is the safest course of action. If you feel that the wind is blowing you off course, do not steer quickly to compensate. Remain calm and make slow, gentle movements to retain control of your motorcycle.

What Should You Do if You Are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle accident, contact one of Catalano Law’s Syracuse motorcycle accident attorneys as soon as possible. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal terrain surrounding motorcycle accidents and New York insurance laws so that you don’t get stuck with medical bills and damages caused by another driver.

Whether your accident is weather-related or due to another’s irresponsible driving, a motorcycle accident attorney can fight for your rights and work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Law Office for a Free Consultation

When you are involved in a motorcycle crash, it is crucial to speak to an experienced motorcycle attorney as soon as possible. Contact the legal team at Catalano Law and speak with one of our knowledgeable lawyers about your case. Catalano Law has over 50 years of combined legal experience, so you can feel confident you’re in good hands. Arrange your free consultation today.