Whoever says a little rain never hurt anybody has probably never tried riding a motorcycle on a rainy day in Maryland. Wet weather can greatly increase a motorcycle rider’s susceptibility to accidents. When “riding rain or shine” is your motto, it’s important that you’re prepared for all weather conditions. If you must—or choose—to ride your motorcycle on a rainy day, here are a few tips to help keep you safe:

Wear Rain Gear

Wearing the proper gear for riding in the rain is crucial to keeping yourself warm and dry. Failing to do so could result in hypothermia – a dangerous condition that can impair your driving ability and lead to a serious Maryland motorcycle wreck. Make sure your motorcycle is equipped with heavy-duty traction on the tires for a rainy ride.

Adjust Riding Habits

Riding a motorcycle on rainy conditions requires somewhat different riding skills than riding on a dry weather day. Here are a few adjustments you may need to make:

Slow down!

Rain can increase the potential of danger for a motorcycle rider, going a little slower than normal is a good idea.

Brake gently

This will help you avoid hydroplaning.

Increase distance

Increasing your following distance will give you more time to react to movement from the cars in front of you, giving you the extra distance necessary to brake gently.

Increase visibility

Other drivers won’t expect to see a motorcyclist riding in the rain, so it’s extra important that you do your part to be visible.

Use Rain-X

Your motorcycle helmet doesn’t have wipers, but Rain-X will dramatically reduce the number of droplets that stay in your line of vision.

Avoid lightning

Lightning is particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders. Take shelter under an overpass or go indoors until the lightning portion of the storm is done.

Watch the Road

Look out for potential hazards, such as any of the following:

  • Water puddles or water-filled potholes
  • Slick oily spots (signified by a rainbow-like appearance)
  • Concrete surfaces, which can become slick in rainy conditions
  • Manhole covers
  • Railroad tracks
  • Grated bridge crossings or metal plates

Even when you do your best to stay safe on the road, other drivers can still cause a serious accident that leaves you injured. When that happens, talk to a motorcycle accident attorney in Prince George’s County who can help you recoup damages. Compassionate and experienced, we can help review your case and help you to better understand your legal options.

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