Fall and Winter Motorcycle Accidents in North Carolina: 6 Risks and Precautions To Consider

Many North Carolina bikers ride year-round, enjoying the mild weather that portions of the state have. However, inclement weather and hazardous road conditions can happen at a moment’s notice, more so during the colder weather months. This is no reason to pack up your bike for a few months, but for those adventurous souls who long for life on two wheels no matter the season, there are some fall and winter precautions they should consider.

North Carolina riders who’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident and are uncertain what to do next can hire a Whitley Law motorcycle accident lawyer. With offices all over the Tar Heel State, one of their experienced biker attorneys can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

6 Fall and Winter Motorcycle Riding Risks and Precautions To Consider

If you want to keep riding for the rest of your life, you’ll want to enjoy the road but do it safely, and with the necessary equipment. There are always risks to riding no matter the season, but those risks are increased during the cooler months. You can ride 12 months a year in North Carolina, but it’s best to be prepared for what fall and winter can throw at bikers. Here are 6 risks and precautions to consider.

Slick Surfaces

Autumn riding can reveal incredibly beautiful views as you zip by tree-lined roads and byways. However, once those gold and orange leaves fall, they could create hazardous road conditions, especially if it’s recently rained. Wet leaves will most certainly cause slick road surfaces. Leaves on the road could also obscure potholes and other road hazards. When riding during the autumn months, take extra precautions on leaf-covered roads.

Cold Weather Riding

Although most North Carolina winters are mild, the mercury can still dip down to the freezing mark, especially at night and in higher elevations. Snowfall isn’t out of the question either. For those riding during the winter months, it’s crucial to dress for the colder temperatures. With wind on your body and colder temperatures, riders face the risk of cold-induced fatigue that can hinder your riding abilities. Always be prepared with an extra layer of clothing in case the temperatures drop quickly.

Sun Glare

During the summer months, a tinted helmet visor or sunglasses are usually enough eye protection while out on the road. However, once the planet tilts in the fall, sun glare can become intense. Autumn sun glare is typically at its strongest during sunrise and sunset. If you’re an autumn regular rider, be aware of the hazards that extreme sun glare can present.

Plan Ahead

While a spur-of-the-moment fall or winter biking adventure may seem like a great idea, it’s always best to be prepared. North Carolina weather conditions can quickly change. Checking weather reports is crucial when making the decision to take a longer-than-usual ride during the colder weather months. Inexperienced riders should take caution when riding in inclement weather.

Know When To Stay Home

Novice riders may want to wait out the season or only hit the road when the weather is relatively warm. Riding in colder weather isn’t for everyone and it can take its toll on the body rather quickly. Riding on wet, slick surfaces comes with its own set of challenges and should only be attempted by bikers with thousands of miles under their belts.

Watch Out for Wildlife

Autumn is the mating season in North Carolina for deer. Bikers who ride in areas where deer are common, which in reality covers a large portion of the state, should be extra cautious of deer on the road. Even if you spot them on the side of the road, they could quickly dart out in front of you. Even a small deer can cause catastrophic damage to a car, so imagine what it can do to you on two wheels.

Late Season Motorcycle Riding in North Carolina: What You Need To Know

One of the benefits of being a North Carolina biker is that you can pretty much ride 365 days a year. However, there are more risks to cooler weather riding than you may think. Wet leaves can present traction and obstruction issues and cooler temperatures can increase rider fatigue. Riding in higher elevations during the winter can quickly become a hazard if temperatures suddenly drop and road surfaces become icy, or worse yet, it begins to snow.

North Carolina bikers who’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t their fault, despite the time of year, should consult with an experienced motorcycle crash attorney. Navigating North Carolina’s labyrinth of personal injury laws should only be attempted by a savvy biker lawyer. If you’ve been injured, reach out to a personal injury lawyer today who can help you get the compensation that you deserve.