With proper planning, gear, and precautions, you can enjoy year-round motorcycle riding in Georgia and Alabama. While winter weather in this area is relatively mild, if you’re caught off guard, you could find yourself in a precarious situation.

The same exposure that makes riding the thrill that it is also increases your risk for injury. Motorcycle accidents often cause catastrophic injuries, like brain and spinal cord damage, making it especially important to put safety first and to contact one of the motorcycle accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Gary Bruce if you are injured. We can help you recover the compensation you need. Hopefully, the following tips help you stay safe this winter.

Check the Weather

Winter weather can turn cold and dangerous before you know it. The last thing you want to do is get caught in a storm unprepared. It only takes a minute to check the forecast and pack appropriate gear or postpone your trip if hazardous conditions are likely.

Make yourself Visible

Wearing bright and reflective gear is a good strategy no matter the time of year, but with winter’s precipitation, fog, and shortage of daylight, it is extra important to make yourself visible to others on the road. Many drivers tend to forget that they share the road with motorcyclists, and the fact that it is winter may push motorcyclists even further from their minds.

Prep Work

Consider what repairs, fluids, or gear your bike needs to perform optimally in cooler temperatures. Make sure your tires have adequate tread and that you check tire pressure regularly. Make it a habit to carry an emergency kit that includes:

  • First aid kit
  • Basic tools
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Water
  • Snacks
  • List of medications or health conditions a first responder would need to know

Cold weather additions include:

  • Space blanket – Takes up minimal space but will make a big difference if you are stuck on the side of the road waiting for assistance.
     
  • Extra clothing – Provides extra layers of warmth or can replace clothing that gets wet.
     
  • Extra socks and gloves – Your extremities are the most susceptible to frostbite. Additionally, trench foot becomes an issue when your feet are wet. Socks and gloves take up little room but could make a huge difference in an emergency.
     
  • Handwarmers.- The last thing you want when trying to make a repair or navigate treacherous conditions is to lose dexterity. Shake-activated handwarmers can prevent debilitating stiffness and loss of grip.

Keep your Distance

Following too closely or being followed too closely should be avoided during inclement weather and on slippery roads. Bridges and overpasses cool more quickly, so plan to slow your speed even more and be vigilant for ice patches.

Stay Toasty with Cold Weather Gear

Your options for staying warm on winter rides are more extensive than ever. Shop your favorite brands for the latest innovations in comfortable cold weather gear. Some items to consider include:

  • Lightweight thermals – Add layers of warmth without adding bulk, and you can stash some extras in your emergency kit without taking up too much space.
     
  • Heated gear – You can get heated jackets, vests, pants, gloves, insoles, socks, and grips to keep you warm in extreme conditions. Choose options with impact protection to get the most bang for your buck.
     
  • Insulated boots – You already know the importance of wearing boots with impact protection, and for winter, you want to make sure you have enough insulation to protect your feet from the elements, as well.

Call us for a Free Consultation

If you aren’t the type to store your bike for the winter, make sure you are hitting the road with the right gear, a defensive mindset, and a good understanding of how to adjust for winter conditions.

The team at the Law Offices of Gary Bruce hopes you stay safe and warm wherever you ride this winter. No matter the season, our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help if you are an accident victim. For a free initial consultation, call us at 706-786-4352. We serve the communities and nearby areas of Phenix City, Alabama, and Ft Moore (formerly Ft Benning) and Columbus, Georgia.