Riding motorcycles can be a thrilling experience, with the great feeling of racing with the wind. However, one danger for motorcycles is hidden road hazards. These dangers might not be very obvious but pose a risk. They are common in big and busy cities like Atlanta, Georgia. They can cause serious injuries and even death.
In Atlanta, motorcyclists face heavy traffic, changing weather, and tricky road conditions. Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained streets are common issues. Even the most skilled motorcycle rider can be caught off guard by these dangers. The city’s roads, with many highways and busy streets, can increase the risk.
Before you get out on the road, riders need to understand these hazards. It will help you to know what you should be watching out for. However, even with precautions, accidents can happen. If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Atlanta, talk to an Atlanta motorcycle lawyer immediately.
Common Hidden Road Hazards
- Potholes and uneven pavement.
Potholes and uneven pavements can be dangerous for the motorcyclist. These might seem like minor cracks on the road; however, they can cause you to lose control and fall off your bike. This is especially true when you are riding at a very high speed.
Motorcycle tires are not as big as cars. Therefore, they are more likely to lose control from minor imperfections. When riding, look out for potholes or uneven surfaces and slow down to avoid accidents.
- Gravel or loose debris.
Sand, loose gravel, and debris can also be hazardous. These often cause bicycle accidents on curves or in areas with poor road maintenance. As mentioned above, bikes have smaller tires and, therefore, less grip than cars, making them more susceptible to sliding.
Gravel or debris may be more difficult to spot, especially in shaded areas, and can cause you to lose control or skid. Therefore, if you do not want any hospital visits, make sure to adjust your speed or slow down where debris may be visible.
- Wet or slippery surfaces.
Wet roads or slippery surfaces can result in bike accidents, especially during rain or in areas with a mix of water and oil. Roads can get slippery just after the rain starts, as oil and other residues mix with water, creating a slick surface. Therefore, you must drive slowly in poor weather conditions, avoid sudden turns, and be careful around standing water.
- Obscured obstacles.
Lastly, obscured obstacles such as debris, fallen branches, or even small animals can be very dangerous for bike riders. These obstacles can be difficult to see, especially in low light or bad weather conditions. Motorcycles do not have any protective covering like cars. Therefore, a collision with these obstacles can lead to serious accidents and even death.
Environmental hazards
- Blind curves.
Blind curves can be very dangerous for bike riders. As the name suggests, these curves can blind you from approaching vehicles because of the sharp turns, which can result in severe accidents. When you approach a blind curve, make sure to press the brakes and reduce your speed, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Inadequate road signage.
Road signs are placed to guide the riders about any dangers on the road and ensure safety. However, inadequate or poorly placed signage can pose a risk to your driving. It makes it difficult to know what to expect.
- Narrow shoulders and lane width.
When the shoulder is too narrow, riders have less space to move in case of an emergency or to avoid road hazards. Similarly, narrow lanes may increase the risk of collision with vehicles, especially on highways or during heavy traffic.
Are you prepared for hidden road hazards?
Navigating the road as a motorcyclist comes with a lot of challenges. If you were in an accident, consult with an attorney today!
