Dirt biking offers an exhilarating experience that cannot be found anywhere else for adventure enthusiasts, offering a sense of freedom, exploration, and power while out in the wilderness. While dirt biking can be an amazing way to experience the outdoors, it does come with a set of its own inherent risks. In this article, we will be discussing how you will be able to keep yourself safe while you are out dirt biking, as well what you should do in the event that you have been injured.
Essential Safety Practices
Wear Proper Safety Gear for Dirt Biking
One of the most critical aspects of staying safe while dirt biking is making sure that you are wearing proper safety gear. Before you take off you should always wear a suitable well-fitted DOT-approved helmet, as this is the number one piece of protection against concussions and other traumatic brain injuries. It is also essential to wear goggles, gloves, a long sleeved shirt, pants with knee guards, sturdy boots, as well as body armor. When you are participating in an inherently dangerous activity protective gear is the number one way to keep yourself safe in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Complete a Training Course
Whether you are new to the sport or not, completing a training course can help familiarize yourself with techniques that you may not be aware of. Receiving proper instruction from experienced teachers will help equip you with indispensable riding skills, as well as a greater understanding of safety techniques and how to handle various terrains or situations that you may encounter while dirt biking.
Inspect Your Dirt Bike Regularly
Before you head out make sure you perform a pre-ride check on your dirt bike. Make sure that you check the brakes, tires, suspension, as well as any other controls to make sure they are in good working condition. By performing regular maintenance and inspections on your dirt bike you are preventing potential mechanical failures that could lead to an accident.
Know Your Terrain
Familiarize yourself with the terrain that you’ll be riding, as different terrains present different challenges and hazards. Being cautious and prepared for potential obstacles such as rocks, roots, loose soil, as well as steep inclines will help ensure your safety. It is important to be sure to ride within your skill level, and learning the terrain you will be riding on will greatly help reduce the risk of any accidents that may occur.
Ride With a Buddy
Whenever it is possible, try to ride with a friend or a group. Having a riding buddy creates an additional layer of safety. In the unfortunate event of an emergency, the additional riders can be crucial in calling for help, as well as aiding in any potential injuries.
Stay Alert and Sober
Any alcohol or drugs before and during your dirt biking adventure can lead to poor judgment, reduced reaction times, as well as a much higher chance of potential accidents. Using any sort of substance while riding a dirt bike is ill advised, as well as it being illegal.
What to Do in the Event of an Accident
Prioritize Your Safety and Assess Injuries
If you are involved in a dirt biking accident, your safety and the safety of others should be your number one priority. Be sure to move to a safe location and get out of the way of any oncoming traffic or potential hazards. Once you have cleared yourself from any potential dangers be sure to check yourself and anyone else involved in the accident for any injuries. If anyone has been seriously hurt, or is showing any serious signs of distress, be sure to call emergency services immediately for further medical assistance.
Document the Incident
If it is possible, it is crucial to document the details of the accident. This includes taking note of the date, the time, location, as well as any other factors that may have contributed to the accident. Be sure to take as many photographs of the scene as you can, photos of your injuries, the scene of the accident, and any other damagers to your dirt bike or the property.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Your injuries may not be immediately apparent but proper medical evaluation may reveal unknown injuries. Seeking prompt medical care can also be essential for any potential legal claims.
Report the Accident
Always be sure to inform the relevant authorities about the accident. If the accident occurs on a designated trail, make sure that you notify trail management or park rangers, and if it happens on private property be sure to inform the property owner. Filing an incident report creates an official record of the event, and can be useful in the event of a legal claim.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If the accident was a result of someone else’s negligence, or maybe a hazardous condition on the property, consider consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer. The motorcycle accident lawyers at LifeLaw Personal Injury are here to help you. We will help you understand your rights, as well as assess the situation you are in and help guide you through the process of seeking compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been in a motorcycle accident do not hesitate to reach out to the expert motorcycle accident lawyers at LifeLaw Personal Injury. Contact us today for a free consultation and to discuss your options.