October 23, 2023in Motorcycle

Essential Motorcycle Gear for Safe Riding in Pocatello

Riding a motorcycle offers a thrilling experience on Pocatello’s scenic roads, but safety should always be the priority. The right gear is essential to safeguard yourself against potential risks. At Swenson Law Group, we prioritize rider safety and want to guide you through the essential motorcycle gear you should wear while cruising through Pocatello’s roads.

Helmet: A DOT-approved helmet is non-negotiable. It’s your first line of defense in case of an accident. Ensure it fits snugly and securely and opt for full-face coverage for maximum protection against wind, debris, and potential impacts.
Jacket: Invest in a durable, abrasion-resistant motorcycle jacket made of leather or high-quality textile. It should have reinforced padding or armor in crucial areas like the elbows, shoulders, and back to protect against road rash and impact injuries.
Pants: Riding-specific pants, such as motorcycle jeans or pants made of abrasion-resistant materials like Kevlar, are crucial. These provide protection against road abrasion and have added padding or armor in vulnerable areas like the knees and hips.
Gloves: Quality gloves with sturdy construction, preferably made of leather, offer essential grip and protection. Look for reinforced palms and knuckle armor to shield your hands against potential injuries during a fall.
Boots: Sturdy, over-the-ankle motorcycle boots are a must. They should offer ankle support and have a non-slip sole for stability. Choose boots that are both durable and comfortable for extended rides.
Eye Protection: Even if your helmet has a visor, consider wearing shatterproof riding glasses or a clear visor to shield your eyes from debris, bugs, wind, and harsh sunlight. Clear vision is crucial for safe riding.
Reflective Gear: Pocatello’s changing weather conditions and varied terrain demand visibility. Consider adding reflective strips or opting for gear with reflective elements to enhance visibility, especially during low-light conditions.
Weather-Specific Gear: Pocatello experiences diverse weather patterns. Be prepared with gear suitable for various conditions, such as waterproof layers for rain, insulated clothing for colder temperatures, and breathable materials for hot weather.

Remember, wearing the right gear isn’t just a safety measure; it’s a legal requirement in Idaho. Not only does proper gear protect you from injuries, but it also significantly reduces the severity of injuries in case of an accident.

At Swenson Law Group, we advocate for motorcycle safety and the rights of riders. If you find yourself in a situation where you need legal counsel or guidance regarding motorcycle accidents or injuries, our experienced team is here to help.

Riding a motorcycle in Pocatello can be exhilarating, and with the right gear and precautions, it can also be safe. Stay protected, stay visible, and enjoy the ride responsibly!

August 22, 2022in Motorcycle

What to do in the Case of a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle Care- Keeping Yourself Safe While Riding

Motorcycles are loved by many. Motorcyclists have various reasons why they love to ride. Between passion, speed, friendships, and fun, there is a surge of thrill and adrenaline when riding. Motorcycles require alertness and maintaining focus while you can feel the air pass through you and experience different smells of the earth. Riding, however, can also put the rider in danger. Whether it is another car not paying attention or feeling like you can pull something off, you must be aware of the risks and safeties of riding.

What are the most common motorcycle injuries?

The most common motorcycle accident injuries include lower-extremity injuries. Lower-extremity injuries are injuries that occur below the waist. Your legs and pelvis withstand more impact from a collision due to the position on the motorcycle. Depending on how severe of an accident, this injury may lead to the victim becoming disabled or unable to walk or move for an extended period. The second most common motorcycle accident injuries are upper-extremity injuries. Upper-extremity injuries include the abdomen, arms, neck, and face. Upper-extremity injuries can occur more depending on the motorcycle’s size, the rider’s age, or the space the bike takes up, creating a greater risk of hitting structures like other cars or barriers. Upper-extremity injuries can lead to broken bones, prolonged treatment, or brain damage.

What can the motorcyclist do to prevent accidents?:

Always wear protective gear. Only 60% of motorists actively wear protective equipment. Equipment includes a helmet, eye protection, long pants, a quality jacket, full-fingered gloves, and closed-toe shoes. Protective gear can be warm in the summer but helps protect your body during accidents when making contact with the road or surrounding items. Wearing protective items can reduce injuries by up to 73%, and armored protective gear can reduce the risk by up to 90%.
Never drink and drive. Although this applies to all vehicles but is even more important while driving a motorcycle. Alcohol is known to slow reaction times and judgment. While operating a motorcycle, alcohol will create issues with balance and coordination.
Never share lanes with a car or ride between traffic. Drivers will not expect to share a lane with a motorist while driving. A vehicle may not see you in their blind spot or may open a door or pull out in front of another car, not seeing you leading you to crash into it.
Observe the rules of the road. Slow down and take all the precautions that you can. Although many factors are outside your control, make sure you make intelligent decisions and stay alert while driving.

What happens if an accident occurs?

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident that is not your fault, you may be compensated through a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver. Typical settlements in motorcycle accidents include:-Medical expenses: Medical expenses are the most common settlement in motorcycle accidents, including hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and prescription costs. Lost wages: Lost wages are the second most common settlement in motorcycle accidents., including lost wages from being unable to work due to injuries. Property damage is the third most common settlement in motorcycle accidents, including damage done to the motorcycle or any personal property damaged in the accident.

When dealing with a motorcycle injury accident, it is crucial to reach out to an expert attorney as soon as possible. An expert attorney, such as Penrod & Swanson, will gather evidence, reach out to witnesses, and negotiate low-ball sums from insurance companies or rejections for a settlement. Reach out to Penrod & Swanson to handle your motorcycle accident claims. Call us at (208)904.0075.