As a Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand the unique challenges that West Virginia’s beautiful but demanding terrain presents to motorcyclists. Our state’s winding mountain roads, steep inclines, and unpredictable weather can make for an exhilarating ride, but they also require extra caution and skill. In this guide, we’ll explore some essential safety tips for navigating the Mountain State on two wheels, helping you enjoy the ride while minimizing risks.
Understanding West Virginia’s Unique Riding Environment
Before we dive into specific safety tips, it’s important to understand what makes riding in West Virginia so unique. Our state is known for its breathtaking Appalachian Mountains, dense forests, and scenic byways. While these features make for stunning rides, they also present challenges that riders might not encounter in flatter, more urban environments.
West Virginia’s roads are often narrow and winding, with sharp curves that can surprise even experienced riders. The mountains create steep ascents and descents, testing both your motorcycle’s capabilities and your riding skills. Additionally, our state experiences all four seasons, each bringing its own set of riding conditions to navigate.
As a Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I’ve handled cases where riders were caught off guard by these unique conditions. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared and adjust your riding techniques to suit our mountainous terrain.
Mastering Mountain Curves
One of the most thrilling aspects of riding in West Virginia is navigating the endless curves of our mountain roads. However, these curves can also be one of the biggest hazards for unprepared riders.
The key to safely navigating mountain curves is to adjust your speed before entering the turn. As you approach a curve, slow down to a speed that allows you to comfortably make the turn. Remember, it’s always better to enter a turn too slowly than too quickly. You can always add a bit of speed if needed, but trying to slow down mid-curve can easily lead to a loss of control.
Look through the turn to where you want to go, not at the edge of the road or any obstacles. This technique, known as “looking through the turn,” helps you maintain a smooth line and stay in control of your bike. Keep your movements smooth and avoid sudden braking or acceleration in the turn.
In West Virginia, it’s not uncommon to encounter decreasing radius turns – curves that get tighter as you go through them. These can be particularly tricky, so always be prepared for the possibility that a turn might tighten up more than you initially expected.
Dealing with Steep Grades
West Virginia’s mountains mean you’ll often find yourself riding up or down steep grades. These can challenge both your motorcycle’s performance and your riding skills.
When riding uphill, you’ll need to maintain enough speed to climb the grade without overworking your engine. Downshift as needed to keep your engine in its power band. Be prepared for the possibility that your bike might lose power on long, steep climbs, especially at higher altitudes.
Descending steep grades can be even more challenging. Use engine braking by downshifting to help control your speed. This reduces wear on your brakes and helps prevent them from overheating on long descents. If you need to use your brakes, apply them intermittently rather than holding them constantly, which can cause them to fade or fail.
Remember, gravity is working against you on both uphills and downhills. On uphills, it’s trying to pull you backward, while on downhills, it’s trying to speed you up. Always maintain a heightened awareness of your speed and road position when dealing with steep grades.
Preparing for West Virginia Weather
West Virginia’s weather can be as varied as its terrain. As a Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I’ve seen how quickly changing weather conditions can catch riders off guard. Being prepared for a range of weather scenarios is key for safe riding in our state.
In the spring and fall, be prepared for rapid temperature changes as you change elevation. A ride that starts in a warm valley can quickly turn chilly as you climb into the mountains. Layered clothing is your best friend in these conditions, allowing you to adjust to changing temperatures.
Summer in West Virginia can bring intense heat and sudden thunderstorms. Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed to avoid heat exhaustion. If you encounter a thunderstorm, find a safe place to wait it out. Riding in heavy rain reduces visibility and traction, increasing your risk of an accident.
Fall brings the added hazard of wet leaves on the road, which can be as slippery as ice. Be especially cautious on shaded curves where leaves might not have dried out. Winter riding in West Virginia is generally not recommended due to the risk of ice and snow, but if you must ride, be prepared for extremely cold temperatures and the possibility of black ice on the roads.
Navigating Wildlife Encounters
West Virginia’s forests are home to abundant wildlife, and encounters with animals on the road are a real possibility. As your Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I handle cases where collisions with deer or other animals have led to serious accidents.
Be especially vigilant during dawn and dusk, when many animals are most active. Use your high beams when possible to increase your ability to spot animals near the road. If you see one animal cross the road, be prepared for more to follow – many animals travel in groups.
If an animal suddenly appears in your path, resist the urge to swerve. Swerving can cause you to lose control of your bike or veer into oncoming traffic, suffering a head-on collision. Instead, brake firmly and try to steer straight. In most cases, it’s safer to hit the animal than to swerve at high speed.
Choosing the Right Gear for Mountain Riding
Proper gear is crucial for safe riding anywhere, but it’s especially important in West Virginia’s varied conditions. As a Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I’ve seen how the right gear can make the difference between a minor spill and a major injury.
Start with a DOT-approved helmet. In West Virginia, all riders are required by law to wear a helmet, and for good reason. A good helmet can save your life in the event of a crash. Choose a helmet that fits well and provides good visibility.
Wear sturdy, over-the-ankle boots to protect your feet and provide a good grip on the foot pegs. Leather or reinforced riding pants and a jacket will protect you from road rash if you take a spill. Don’t forget good riding gloves to improve your grip on the controls and protect your hands.
Consider investing in rain gear for those unexpected mountain showers. Being wet and cold can be not just uncomfortable but dangerously distracting. Reflective gear or bright colors can also help make you more visible to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions common in forested mountain areas.
Reach Out to a Morgantown Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you do find yourself in trouble on the road, don’t hesitate to seek help from Desai Law. And if you’re involved in an accident, remember that as a Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer, I’m here to help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (304) 974-1974.
Stay safe out there, enjoy the incredible riding our state has to offer, and may the wind always be at your back. Here’s to many more miles of safe, enjoyable riding through the beautiful mountains of West Virginia!
