Most motorcycle riders look forward to the spring as the time when they can finally uncover their bike and go for an enjoyable ride in the warm weather. Come late fall, they tuck the bike back in storage for the winter months.

That’s most people. However, a few brave souls enjoy the thrill of defying the cold and riding all year long. Others rely on their motorcycle for everyday transportation and therefore must ride in all types of weather.

If you fall into these latter categories, there are a couple key things you should know:

Layers Matter

You wouldn’t typically go for a January stroll in the mountains with just a t-shirt, so why would you brave the cold weather on your motorcycle without a little extra protection?

Layers make a difference in more than one way. First, layers of clothing will help keep you warm from the wind on a cold, blustery day. Second, you will stay warm longer and reduce the chances of frostbite on the occasion that you get stranded in cold weather. Third, extra layers help protect your skin in the case of a serious Maryland motorcycle accident.

Proper dress for winter riding can include:

  • A full helmet to shield your face from the wind and any snow.
  • Gloves so that your hands stay warm and can handle the controls easily.
  • Windbreaker jacket and pants to provide extra protection from a freezing wind.
  • Sturdy winter boots to help you maneuver in icy conditions or walk for help if you get stranded.

Driving With Skill

Only an experienced motorcycle rider should attempt to drive in the winter. A motorcycle will handle differently in the winter, requiring some changes in your driving habits. Here are a few tips for winter driving:

  • Avoid driving until the roads have been cleared. Even four-wheel-drive trucks have trouble navigating the roads after a freak snowstorm, so imagine how much worse you would fare on your motorcycle.
  • Reduce your speed. This goes for all vehicles, but especially for motorcycles, which are more susceptible to bad driving conditions.
  • Slow before entering a turn, even more so than you typically would in dry, summer conditions.
  • Do not brake while turning. This could cause your tires to slip and force your motorcycle to skid or fall.
  • Avoid any icy patches that you can see. Why play with danger?
  • Allow even more following space between other vehicles. You never know when a car nearby could lose control on an icy patch, so it’s best to give yourself a little extra room.

If you’ve been injured in a Maryland motorcycle wreck, whether in inclement winter weather or on a hot, summer day, you may be eligible for compensation. To talk to an experienced Maryland accident attorney, call Nickelsporn & Lundin at 800-875-9700.