This blog post discusses the increased dangers of riding motorcycles in winter in Georgia.
Increased Number Of Accidents In The Winter Months
There is no question that all drivers and passengers face increased dangers during the winter months. The federal Department of Transporation (DOT) Highway Safety Administration reports that during a typical winter driving season across the United States, nearly 7,400 drivers and passengers lose their lives, and nearly 675,000 more are injured in crashes. Many can be directly related to adverse weather and road conditions.
Although snow is a relatively rare occurrence in central and southern Georgia, our winter rains often turn to sleet and freeze to the road surface overnight, when winter temperatures are apt to drop significantly.
Black Ice
Drivers in northern states are very familiar with the phenomena of black ice, which forms when an invisible layer of condensation freezes to the road surface. Bridge decks, in particular, become icy because the open-air circulating beneath them remains colder than the ground. Fortunately, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) posts signs at most river bridges, warning of the danger of ice, but highway overpasses are subject to the same icy conditions.
Remember, if you see ice, be careful. If you don’t see ice, be more careful.
Motorcyclists braving the challenges of winter roads are in particular danger. Not only will bikers face an increased risk of losing control of their motorcycle, but other drivers have a more difficult time bringing their car or truck to a stop or regaining control after going into a skid.
At Dozier Law Firm, in Macon and Savannah, we know that most bikers in Georgia are excellent, safe riders. But during the winter, there are weather factors that may mean your safety is out of your own control. If you must ride in wintery conditions, take extra precautions and try to avoid the high speeds of freeway riding.
