Hazardous Road Conditions to Avoid on a Motorcycle

This time of year, the rate of traffic accidents increases drastically. When it comes to types of accident victims, motorcyclists are at the top of the list. Some of the most common causes for motorcycle accidents in the United States are speeding, loss of control, driving at night, approaching unexpected curves in the road, and intoxicated driving. This tells us that the best way to prevent motorcycle accidents is to avoid dangerous driving. Unlike cars, motorcycles and their drivers are more vulnerable to inclement weather and unreliable road conditions. For this reason, one of the most important aspects of avoiding dangerous driving is to avoid driving in hazardous conditions.

Continue reading to learn which roads can be the most dangerous on a motorcycle, and who to call after wrecking your bike in an Indiana motorcycle accident.

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Unpredictable Roads

Unpredictable roads are not a safe route for motorcycles because they can be full of unexpected turns, curves, bends, obstacles, roadblocks, and more. Conditions like narrow roads, loose gravel, rock beds, uneven surfaces, mud, oil, water runoff, fallen trees, road construction, and similar obstructions are common hurdles that motorcyclists must look out for at all times.

For instance, roads with gravel or loose aggregate can make it quite challenging to apply the brakes and come to a safe stop, especially for beginners or inexperienced drivers. Unpredictable roads can be even more dangerous at night. You cannot see a fallen tree or sudden bend in the dark as well as you can during the day. When combined with unsafe driving practices, like speeding, unpredictable roads can be incredibly dangerous.

Wet and Muddy Roads

Rain and snow can create some unpleasant driving conditions, but for motorcycles, these unpleasant driving conditions can be flat out dangerous. Muddy roads are a common obstacle for motorcycles. Not only is it a challenge to navigate a motorcycle through thick, sticky mud, it is very difficult to maintain control and stability.

The best way to avoid an accident is to avoid driving on a muddy road altogether. If the road is only slightly muddy, you can proceed with caution by driving slowly to avoid slipping or sliding. Just be sure to rinse your bike clean of mud when you arrive at your destination to prevent rusting and mechanical issues. These factors can cause a decline in performance and safety, as well.

Winding Roads

Meandering and winding roads, like those found in the hills or mountain ranges, can be very dangerous on a motorcycle. These roads are even more dangerous in inclement weather, at night, and when the sun is setting. For this reason, driving a motorcycle on winding roads requires more alert driving. Furthermore, it requires sufficient practice and experience to adopt the skills of accurate timing and good judgment for navigating twisty or narrow roads on a motorcycle.

For beginner motorcyclists, it is recommended to start on small hills so that you can practice using good timing and navigational judgment while taking turns and bends. Eventually, you should learn how to set up for a curve. Keep in mind that this skill set takes years of driving experience to perfect.

Did You Wreck Your Bike in Central Indiana?

Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for affordable 24 hour towing and recovery in Indianapolis, or anywhere throughout Central Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! We also provide 24 hour roadside assistance, including fuel delivery, tire service, and lockouts. Request free estimates, anytime.

Indianapolis Towing & Recovery 317-247-8484

A 4 Point Vehicle Check for Your Autumn Road Trip

Autumn is a wonderful time to take a road trip. You don’t even need to get out of the car to enjoy yourself. Simply taking in all the surrounding, ever-evolving seasonal beauty is enough to make your trip worth it. Tall, verdant evergreens, billowing leafy canopies of golds and oranges, bright yellow foliage, and bustling streams in cold water creeks and river tributaries are just a few of the sites you’ll likely see this year on your Fall Indiana road trip. But if you really want to make the most out of your road trip, your first priority should be preparing the vehicle you intend to drive. After all, you and your passengers are the safest when your vehicle is in the best condition, and fully-equipped with the proper road safety supplies.

In fact, you can feel confident about your car and yourself as the driver by simply performing a 4 point, pre-trip check before hitting the road. Continue below to learn exactly how!

24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484
24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance 317-247-8484

4-Point Vehicle Check List for Road Trips

Be sure to do your 6 point vehicular check at least one or two weeks prior to your planned departure date. This time frame will give you plenty of leeway to have needed automotive services or minor repairs done. After ensuring that your car does is operating normally, and does not need any minor repairs or factory scheduled maintenance work, you can move forward with your 4-Point Vehicle Check List!

#1 Automotive Fluids

Your first point to check during your pre-trip vehicular inspection is fluid levels. Be sure that your car, truck, van, or SUV is topped off with all 7 essential automotive fluids. These include battery fluid, transmission fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, radiator fluid (coolant), brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. It is wise to keep an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid in the trunk for emergency refills.

#2 Tires

It is critical to check your tire quality and condition before leaving on a long-distance road trip. First, be sure that your tires have been properly rotated and balanced. This is good for alignment, fuel efficiency, and drivability, and more. Next, be sure your tires are properly inflated. Under or over-inflated tires can cause several problems, and unexpected blow outs. Properly inflated tires prevent accidents and injuries, and improve fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and more.

#3 Emergency Road Kit

Every vehicle should be equipped with an emergency roadside assistance kit, as well as, additional emergency supplies. As mentioned, it is wise to put an extra bottle of motor oil, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid for needed refills. Furthermore, long-distance trips are bound to bring on surprises, so be ready with a full roadside emergency kit. In addition to these items, be sure your vehicle also has a spare tire, jumper cables, bottled water, extra blankets, and if possible, GPS.

#4 Windows and Mirrors

The windows and mirrors on your vehicle are one of the most vital components for driving safety. Before heading out on your long-distance road trip, be sure that all windows are perfectly clean and clear. It is recommended to spray them with a water-repellent solution for extra clarity during a rainy drive. Additionally, be sure your mirrors are clean and positioned at the proper angles. If you plan to switch driver’s mid-way, be sure to repeat this step again.

Call Our Wrecker Operators for 24 Hour Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your car breaks down in Indiana at any point during your autumn road trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for 24 hour roadside assistance and more. Our friendly staff is waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

Indianapolis Towing & Recovery 317-247-8484