Motorcycles are beautiful machines, and there are few things as thrilling as being out on the road on two wheels. But motorcycles can also be dangerous.

Because they lack the protective cages that make cars and SUVs boring, motorcycles leave their riders more exposed to the consequences of a collision, slide, or other accident.

Being a motorcycle rider means enjoying your vehicle despite its inherent dangers. But motorcycle riders are not maniacs, of course. They do their best to avoid the dangers of the road, and they seek justice when they are wronged.

How to stay as safe as possible on a motorcycle

Your safety on a motorcycle starts with your abilities and the care that you take on the road. Make sure that you know what you’re doing and that you are riding within your own limitations.

Take classes before you tackle longer or more difficult trips, and remember that discretion is the better part of valor. You may want to abandon riding plans if the weather looks dangerous, and it’s never a bad idea to take a break under an overpass or at a rest stop if rain catches you off-guard.

While you’re riding, keep speeds sensible, and don’t attempt dangerous weaving maneuvers through traffic. Always practice defensive riding — you never know what someone else might do, and your motorcycle is not going to win a battle with an SUV.

Be sure to gear up, too, and remind the experts at motorcycle supply company Chap Moto. Wear tough protective clothing and always, always wear your helmet.

Treat your motorcycle itself to the same sorts of quality brand-name products that you choose to wear. Replacement parts from genuine suppliers, for instance, can keep your motorcycle running more smoothly and safely.

Be sure to pay frequent visits to a motorcycle mechanic, to be confident that your motorcycle will perform the way that you need it to at all times.

There are a lot of things you can do to protect yourself when you ride — but, unfortunately, there are no sure paths to safety. That’s why every rider should also know his or her options after an accident.

Legal options following motorcycle injuries

When you’re hurt in a motorcycle accident, the consequences can be terrible. In addition to the physical pain, you could be disabled, have steep medical bills, and even find yourself unable to work.

These sorts of things are damages, and the laws of the United States, Canada, and other countries could help you recover funds to compensate you for them.

If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you could have a personal injury case, explain expert personal injury lawyers in Vancouver. You should consult with a personal injury attorney in your area about a potential case.

Many attorneys will offer free consultations but don’t show up to one empty-handed. Gather together as much documentation related to your accident as you can find.

From police reports from the scene of the crash to medical bills related to the injuries the crash caused and pay stubs showing that the aftermath has cut into your income, every piece of paper could help your attorney build a case.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to work with an attorney to seek the compensation you deserve after a terrible motorcycle accident. But you should know that the option is there. In the meantime, do everything that you can do to stay safe out there on the road.