Blog

Summer is finally here, and it's time for families to embark on exciting adventures and make lasting memories. The Reno Lake Tahoe region offers stunning landscapes and a plethora of recreational activities, making it a popular destination for family vacations. As you plan your getaway, it's essential to prioritize safety on the road to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. In this blog post, we'll discuss some crucial tips to help you and your loved ones drive safe this summer, partnering with the experienced personal injury law firm, Bradley Drendel and Jeanney, to emphasize the importance of protecting your family during your Reno Lake Tahoe adventures. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before hitting the road, it's crucial to ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition. Regular maintenance, such as checking tire pressure, oil changes, and brake inspections, can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. Don't forget to verify that all lights and signals are working correctly. Properly functioning vehicle systems are vital to your safety and that of your family. Buckle Up for Safety: The simplest and most effective safety measure you can take is ensuring that everyone in your vehicle wears their seatbelts. Make it a rule that no one starts the engine until all seatbelts are fastened. Seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or fatality in the event of a collision, so insist on their use at all times. Observe Speed Limits: When traveling to Reno Lake Tahoe, you'll encounter various roadways, each with its own posted speed limits. It's important to respect and adhere to these limits to ensure the safety of your family and other motorists. Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases the severity of accidents, so be sure to drive within the legal limits and adjust your speed based on road conditions. Minimize Distractions: Distractions while driving can be catastrophic, particularly when your family is in the car. Keep your attention on the road by refraining from using your phone or engaging in other distracting activities while driving. If necessary, designate a passenger as the "navigator" to handle directions and address any potential distractions, allowing you to focus solely on the road ahead. Plan for Rest Stops: Long drives can be tiring, especially with children in the car. Plan your journey with frequent rest stops to prevent driver fatigue. Take advantage of the stunning vistas around Reno Lake Tahoe by incorporating scenic spots into your itinerary. Stretching your legs, hydrating, and getting some fresh air will help keep you alert and ready to continue your journey safely. Share the Road: The summer months attract numerous tourists and recreational enthusiasts to Reno Lake Tahoe, leading to increased traffic. Be mindful of cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcyclists sharing the road with you. Always yield to them and provide sufficient space to ensure everyone's safety. Practicing patience and respect for others on the road is essential for a smooth and incident-free vacation. Conclusion: As you embark on your family vacation to Reno Lake Tahoe, prioritize safety to make your journey a memorable and enjoyable one. By following these tips, you'll significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the well-being of your loved ones. Remember, accidents can still happen, even when precautions are taken. In the event of an unfortunate incident, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bradley Drendel and Jeanney are here to support you and help protect your family's rights. Drive safe, enjoy your vacation, and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.   (Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney for personalized legal guidance.)

House or business owners are liable to maintain the safety of their property to prevent visitors from suffering injuries. Safeguarding security is known as premises liability law. Premises liability law protects the right of people suffering from an injury on someone else’s property. If you or your loved one is a victim of such damage, consulting with a qualified, experienced personal injury lawyer in Sparks can help. However, property owners are not responsible for every injury happening on their property. Who is Eligible for Compensation? 1. Invitees: Invitees are people who visit your property to discuss business or purchase a product or service. These people are entitled to maximum compensation, especially from commercial owners. 2. Licensee: Licensees are the guests who visit your property for no business purpose. If they suffer injury due to the owner’s negligence, claiming compensation is necessary. 3. Trespassers: Trespassers were not eligible for coverage under premises liability law. However, a change in the law in 1968 led to a different outcome. Some trespassers can claim compensation. Consulting with a personal injury attorney in Reno can help. Elements to Prove to Build a Case: The property owner was responsible because he/she owns the property. The property owner was negligent in maintaining safety. Lack of negligence caused harm and damages. Hazardous Conditions That Fall Under Premises Liability Are as Follows: Dog bites or animal attacks Swimming pool accidents Dangerous property Inadequate security measures Defective conditions Snow or ice accidents Elevator or escalator accidents These Situations Can Arise From the Following: Open excavations Standing water Crumbling curbs Insufficient lighting Icy walks Wet floors Uncleared snow Falling objects Inadequate security Concealed holes Uneven pavement Improperly secured mats Defective chairs or benches You May Receive the Following Compensation Under Premises Liability Law: Medical bills Lost wages because you cannot work Pain and suffering damages Emotional distress resulting from the accident Since premises law varies from state to state, seeking professional help goes a long way. An expert personal injury lawyer knows the ins and outs of a law, suggesting you the best solution. Experts will have you act quickly before the deadline and create a solid case for a compensation claim. Conclusion Premises injury law covers a person on your property. Sometimes it can be confusing to claim compensation for the injuries suffered on a person’s property. Consulting with an expert in premises law can help. Your attorney will build a case to prove your injury, winning the compensation you deserve. If you or your loved one suffers from an injury on someone’s premises, consulting with a qualified attorney is the best way to handle the situation.

Car accidents can be devastating, but when the other driver flees the scene, it can be even more traumatic. A hit-and-run accident is a crime and can leave you feeling helpless, angry, and uncertain about what to do next. This blog outlines the steps you should take after a hit-and-run accident to protect your rights and seek compensation for your damages. We'll also discuss how an accident lawyer in Sparks can assist you during this challenging time. Let's drill deeper! To-Do Guide After the Hit-and-Run Accident Stay Calm and Call for Help The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run accident is to remain calm and call for help. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if there are no injuries, you should still call the police to report the accident. The police can document the scene and help you file an accident report, which will be essential in pursuing legal action later on. Gather Information and Document the Scene While waiting for the police to arrive, try to gather as much information as possible about the accident. Write down the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle if you were able to see it. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information, as their testimony may be valuable in proving liability later on. Take photos of the scene, including any damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. Seek Medical Attention Even if you don't feel injured, seeking medical attention after a hit-and-run accident is crucial. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not manifest immediately. A medical professional can assess your condition and document any injuries, which will be important in proving damages later on. Consult an Accident Lawyer After a hit-and-run accident, it's essential to seek legal representation. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Carson City can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for your damages. They can also handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, so you don't have to deal with the stress of the claims process alone. Notify your Insurance Company Even if the other driver fled the scene, you should still notify your insurance company of the accident. Your insurance policy may cover hit-and-run accidents, and they can help you file a claim and get your vehicle repaired. However, it's worth noting that insurance companies are notorious for offering a low settlement that doesn't fully compensate you for your damages. Therefore, having an accident attorney in Reno by your side is imperative. Document Your Damages To pursue compensation for your damages, you'll need to document them thoroughly. Keep track of all your medical bills, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and medications. If you had to miss work because of your injuries, document your lost wages. Additionally, keep track of any other expenses related to the accident, such as vehicle repairs or rental car fees. Conclusion A hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic experience, but you don't have to go through it alone. Following the aforementioned steps can protect your rights and pursue compensation for your damages. Remember to stay calm, gather information, seek medical attention, contact an accident lawyer, notify your insurance company, and document your damages thoroughly. If you have the correct legal representation, you may recuperate from your injuries and move on from this trying experience.

Riding a motorcycle is very popular in Nevada thanks to the warm climate and abundance of scenic roadways. But it's no secret that many people consider motorcycles to be dangerous. Also, those who ride motorcycles are often unfairly assumed to be risk-takers. However, it's not the motorcycles themselves that are so dangerous. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents today. Vehicles turning left Cars turning left into the path of motorcycles can be deadly situations for motorcyclists. The small profile of most motorcycles make them harder for other drivers to spot. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicles turning left accounted for nearly half of all fatal car and motorcycle accidents. Road hazards Drivers of passenger vehicles may not even notice things like gravel or uneven road surfaces. However, these things can be very hazardous for motorcyclists. Motorcycles only have two wheels, so they’re less stable. Unexpected objects and road irregularities can cause motorcycle crashes. Head-on collisions Head-on collisions are some of the deadliest types of motorcycle accidents. Cars can weigh about four times as much as motorcycles. In a head-on crash, the mismatched amount of force combined with the lack of protection for riders can have fatal consequences. Motorcycles are very common on roadways throughout Nevada. Drivers need to stay attentive and always on the lookout for motorcycles. Those in Nevada who suffer physical injuries or the loss of an immediate family member in motorcycle accidents caused by negligence could benefit by speaking with a legal representative. A successful lawsuit could supply victims and families with much-needed and deserved compensation.

In cities across the state of Nevada, walking is a popular form of recreation as well as transportation. Many times, traveling by foot is just easier and more economical. Of course, there are pedestrians present at nearly all hours of the day and night in Las Vegas and other big cities. Unfortunately, car accidents involving pedestrians are bound to happen when vehicles and pedestrians are in proximity. Since pedestrians are completely exposed, these types of accidents often end up being very serious or fatal. Accident details Recently, a pedestrian was killed in Sparks after being hit by a driver who fled the scene. The incident happened during the morning hours at the intersection of Probasco and East Prater. According to reports, a woman was attempting to walk across the street when she was struck by a vehicle. Reports noted the pedestrian was in an activated crosswalk. Authorities said the pedestrian was taken to a hospital where, tragically, she was pronounced dead. Reportedly, the driver of the vehicle fled after hitting the pedestrian. Witnesses reported that the vehicle was a sedan, but the color, make and model are unknown. Sparks police are currently seeking information. Reportedly, a cash reward is being offered to anyone with information leading to the prosecution of the party deemed responsible. Help for victims, families Although significant pedestrian safety improvements have been made across the state of Nevada, car accidents involving pedestrians cannot be completely prevented. Those who have suffered the loss of a loved one in an accident caused by the negligence of another party could benefit by contacting an experienced attorney. Surviving family members could receive deserved compensation from a successful lawsuit.

Reno has many motorcyclists on its roadways. Drivers of passenger vehicles and trucks are obligated to keep an eye on them, yield when necessary, and take steps to keep everyone safe and accident-free. However, theories and best-case scenarios aside, this does not always happen. Riders are vulnerable to injuries and fatalities when they are involved in a crash. In some of these accidents, a second crash occurs in the immediate aftermath, causing more damage. Legal assistance is advisable with the litany of problems that come after these accidents. Two separate motorcycle accidents resulted in one rider being injured and another dying. According to law enforcement, the first happened when a motorcyclist was going south and a vehicle turned in front of the rider. The vehicles collided, and the rider died. Another rider was also going south and hit the first motorcyclist. That rider was hospitalized, but the injuries were said to be minor. The investigation is continuing, and it is not known if charges or citations will be issued to anyone involved. There are natural risks involved when riding a motorcycle. Drivers of passenger vehicles need to keep riders in mind, watch their mirrors, give riders the right of way and take other steps to adhere to the safety laws. When they do not, riders can suffer catastrophic injuries and death. Medical costs, lost companionship, pain and suffering and other issues warrant compensation. A law firm that has experience in assisting people injured in motorcycle accidents must be called immediately to gather evidence and pursue a case. A firm that helps those who have suffered loss after motorcycle accidents can help.

When embarking on a road trip, many motorists prefer to travel at night. Obviously, driving at night is very different from driving during the day. In fact, nighttime driving can be more hazardous than daytime driving even though there is usually less traffic. For Nevada drivers who prefer traveling at night, these strategies could help prevent accidents. 1. Increase Following Distance Regardless of the time of day, it is never a good idea to follow another vehicle too closely. At night, it is important to increase following distance since visibility is significantly reduced. Also, following too closely makes headlights brighter and could distract the driver in front. 2. Stay Focused The best way to avoid an accident at night is to stay alert and drive defensively. Check mirrors often and be on the lookout for vehicles that are not using headlights. Also, animals are often more active at night, so scan the sides of the roadways and be alert for any animals that could dart into the road. 3. Stay Awake Since most people are accustomed to sleeping at night, falling asleep behind the wheel is far more likely at night. Traveling long distances can also cause exhaustion. Any time a driver starts to feel sleepy while driving, he or she should pull over or find a place to rest for the night. Unfortunately, no matter how prepared a driver is, or what time of the day it is, there will always be a chance for car accidents to happen. Those in Nevada who are involved in an accident and suffer injuries due to the negligence of another party reserve the right to contact a lawyer and take legal action. Damages from a successfully litigated claim could help victims recover financial losses and get back on their feet.

Personal injury cases are complex, and handling one alone can waste your time and money. A personal injury attorney is significant both to the success of your case and fair compensation for your injuries. The attorney will also offer you emotional support throughout the case and help you accurately fill out all complex paperwork. You don't have to endure a complex and tedious process to find a good personal injury attorney. Read on to learn essential parameters to consider before you hire an injury attorney. 1. The Attorney's Specialty Clarity about a personal injury attorney's practice areas is crucial before you make up your mind. The lawyer you hire should have vast experience and a successful track record in the injury claim you intend to file. Check the attorney's website to confirm their areas of practice in injury law and reviews from some past clients. Some areas of practice for injury attorneys are defective product liability, medical malpractice, and premises liability. Product liability claims happen when one consumes products, like drugs, which contain harmful ingredients that later cause health problems. Medical malpractice claims happen when doctors, nurses, and other medical specialists provide low-standard care or negligently commit mistakes that cause injuries. Lastly, premises liability claims result when one sustains injuries from faulty wiring, chemicals, or other negligent causes while on someone else's premises. 2. The Attorney's Reputation A trustworthy personal injury lawyer will be there for you even when things get tough. For instance, the attorney will handle the insurance company on your behalf and give you peace of mind. But word of mouth alone isn't enough to prove that the injury lawyer of your choice is trustworthy. Accreditation, clear payment structure, and recommendations from past clients can enlighten you about the attorney's reputation. Regarding accreditation, the injury attorney you hire should be a member of the state bar. Also, a clear payment structure upfront will protect you from hidden and unfair fees during your case. Lastly, a trustworthy personal injury attorney has positive online reviews and gives ethical responses to negative reviews. 3. The Charged Legal Fees Personal injury cases aren't one-size-fits-all since their costs vary based on factors like the case's difficulty and the attorney's experience. Common fees charged by personal injury attorneys are referral, consultation, and contingency fees. The party that refers your case to an injury lawyer will charge you a referral fee. While many initial consultations are free, an injury attorney can decide to charge you when you first meet them to inquire about their legal services. Lastly, a contingency fee is the agreed percentage of the money you should pay the attorney after you get compensated. Get quotes from several personal injury attorneys to help you easily negotiate a fee reduction and create a reasonable budget. 4. An Initial Consultation An initial consultation will require you to meet the injury attorney of your choice to know more about their work. Also, an initial consultation will enable you to build a good relationship with the attorney even before the start of your case. For the success of your consultation with a personal injury attorney, you must prepare well in advance. One way to prepare for the consultation is to ensure you have a record of what happened during the accident. Also, collect adequate evidence, like medical records, police reports, and printed emails of your injuries. Lastly, prepare a clear and relevant list of questions to ask the attorney during the consultation. If you have sustained injuries because of another person's negligence, consider filing a personal injury claim. However, you don't have to navigate the entire legal process on your own. At Bradley, Drendel, & Jeanney, we're reputable and experienced personal injury attorneys you can trust with your case.

6 Common Personal Injury Myths Debunked Oct 26, 2022 Personal injury myths might discourage you from filing a claim after you suffer an injury due to another person's negligence. Sadly, you might struggle to pay off medical bills if you don't file a claim. The injuries can also make it hard for you to work and provide for your family. You can avoid these problems if you learn about misconceptions about personal injury. The following are six personal injury myths and the truth about personal injury lawsuits. 1. Personal Injury Lawsuits Take Too Long Many personal injury victims believe the claim process takes too long. They also fear that if the lawsuit goes to trial, it'll take years before they can receive compensation. A lawyer can help you expedite your personal injury case. They'll help you file the claim paperwork fast and accurately. They'll also help you gather sufficient evidence to support your claim, which can speed up things. 2. The Insurance Company Will Pay for All Injury-Related Costs In theory, your insurance company is supposed to cover all injury-related costs. Sadly, this is rarely the case, as many insurers only cover a portion of these costs. Sometimes, the insurance company can even refuse to pay your claim. If this happens to you, request your insurance company to provide a written explanation of why they denied your claim. You may also need to consult an attorney on the legal action to take in this situation. A lawyer will evaluate your case, and they'll advise you on whether you can compel your insurance company to pay your claim. 3. Personal Injury Lawsuits Are Frivolous Many personal injury victims are reluctant to file claims due to the fear of being deemed frivolous. They fear people might think they're greedy. Sadly, most of these people suffer in silence, yet they have legitimate personal injury claims. Here are the key things required in all personal injury claims: The plaintiff has suffered physical injuries, mental injuries, or property damage The damages can be compensated with money There was a clear cause for the injury The defender was liable for that cause If your personal injury meets the above criteria, you have a legitimate reason to seek compensation for damages suffered. 4. Personal Injury Lawsuits Are Only for Severe Injuries Many people believe they shouldn't file claims for minor injuries. However, you might still need medical care even if you suffered a few bruises and bumps. So, you may still need to file a claim for these minor injuries to receive compensation for your medical bills. However, you might not need to file a claim if you didn't go to the hospital. 5. Personal Injury Claims Don't Have a Deadline You might postpone filing a personal injury claim, assuming you can do it anytime. However, most states have statutes of limitations that bar you from filing a personal injury claim after a certain amount of time has passed. You need to file your claim before this deadline to increase the odds of receiving compensation. 6. Personal Injury Lawyers Are Ambulance Chasers An ambulance chaser is a lawyer who seeks out injured victims and encourages them to sue for damages. Ambulance chasers don't care much about their clients, as their main concern is their legal fees. However, most personal injury attorneys are not ambulance chasers. Consult an attorney to advise you on whether or not to file a personal injury claim. An attorney will also help you debunk other personal injury myths that exist today. They'll help you estimate the value of your claim and how to fight for fair compensation. Your personal injury attorney will also help you know when to settle and when to go to trial. Contact us today to learn how to handle your personal injury case.

Property owners owe a reasonable duty of care to visitors on their property to remove any dangerous conditions that may result in an injury. If you sustain an injury on a person's property, you may file a premise liability case if you believe they did not take the necessary measures to ensure your safety. Premise liability cases are the most common personal injury cases there are. However, a lot goes into determining whether a person who wants to initiate a premise liability case has a legal claim. Learn the basics of premise liability cases below. What Are the Types of Premise Liability Cases? Essentially, a plaintiff in a premise liability case seeks compensation for injuries caused by an unsafe condition on another person's property. Below are some types of premise liability cases you should know. Slip and Fall Accidents If you slip and fall on public or private property, you can bring a claim for compensation against the property owner or the person responsible for monitoring and maintaining the premises. However, you must prove that the owner or caretaker of the premises caused a spill, tore a surface, or left something underfoot that caused your fall. If your accident was due to a hazardous condition, you must prove that the property owner or caretaker was aware of the condition and did nothing about it. When you file a slip and fall case, you must ensure the defendant cannot claim that your carelessness led to the accident. Dog Bites Dog owners have a legal obligation to keep their dogs from injuring anyone on their property. Thus, if someone's dog bites you, you can sue them for compensation for your medical expenses and other effects of the accident. When the person whose dog bit you has dog owner's liability insurance, their insurance provider may cover your losses after a dog bite, even if it occurred outside the owner's premises. In some states, you may need to prove that the owner knew the dog had a history of biting people. However, in other states, the law holds a dog owner liable for dog bites regardless of whether they knew its history or not. Other situations that may result in a premise liability case include: Inadequate security Swimming pool injuries Poor maintenance Who May Recover Compensation in a Premise Liability Case? When determining whether a person's legal claim for compensation in a premise liability case is valid, most states focus on the person's status in the property. A visitor to a property is either an invitee, licensee, or trespasser. Below is a closer look at each classification. Invitee An invitee is anyone a property owner invited to their property solely for business purposes. Examples of invitees include customers in a store, tenants in a building, and a delivery man. The relationship between a property owner and an invitee is mutually beneficial. Licensee A licensee also gets an invitation from a property owner to access the property for social purposes or another reason unrelated to business. Examples of licensees include a guest at a party, a friend, a neighbor, or a relative. Trespasser A trespasser is anyone who accesses a property without the owner's authorization. Such a person has no right to recover compensation for injuries sustained within the premises they trespassed. However, if the trespasser is a child, the property owner still owes them a duty of care. Property owners must put warning signs indicating danger that is not obvious in case there is a high likelihood of people trespassing onto the property. Property owners must also avoid intentionally hurting trespassers. Property owners owe invitees and licensees a duty of care. However, sometimes determining whether or not a person is an invitee, licensee, or trespasser can get complicated. Hence, it is important to have legal representation in a premise liability case. At Bradley Drendel & Jeanney, we have the best personal injury lawyers in Northern Nevada. Contact us today to consult on your premises liability case.

Medical treatment costs often form a significant part of auto accident damages. Thus, you should pursue full compensation for all your medical damages to maximize your settlement or award. You can only do this by accounting for all the treatments you need or have received for your injury. Below are some of these treatments. Emergency Treatment You need emergency treatment immediately after an accident if you have serious or unknown injuries. The ER personnel will stabilize your condition before you continue with general treatment. ER care is useful since: It can help diagnose and treat serious medical conditions and prevent medical complications It provides the evidence you need to prove the seriousness of your auto accident injuries Don't refuse ER care, especially if the first responders suggest it. Otherwise, the defendant in your subsequent accident claim might use the denial to downgrade your injuries. Specialist Treatment You might need curative specialist treatment after your ER care. Curative treatment addresses the specific injuries you suffered in the accident to make you wholesome again. The curative treatment you need depends on your injuries. For example, you may need: Orthopedic care if you have musculoskeletal injuries, such as limb fractures Neurological care if you have suffered brain or nervous system injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) Cardiology care if you have suffered heart injuries Your general physician or ER doctor will refer you to the right specialist for further treatment. Take the referral seriously and seek medical care. Don't ignore the advice even if you feel better. Physical Therapy You might need further treatment to regain your pre-accident life, even after a hospital discharge or initial consultation with your general physician. Say you suffered a limb fracture in an auto accident. You might struggle to walk and carry on with your everyday activities even after your fracture heals. Physical therapy may help you regain your pre-accident stability and strength. The number and frequency of your physiotherapy sessions depend on your injuries' location and severity. Your treating physician will work with your physiotherapist for optimum treatment. Follow their advice if you don't want the defendant to argue that you exceeded the necessary sessions. Psychotherapy Auto accidents can cause mental injuries with or without physical injuries. Moreover, mental injuries can also trigger physical manifestations. For example, you might suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a horrific crash. PTSD can cause: Stomach upsets Headaches Sleep disturbances Anxiety In such a case, you may need psychotherapy in addition to other forms of treatment. Complementary or Alternative Medicine Complimentary or alternative medicine (CAM) falls outside mainstream medicine. Examples of CAMs include acupuncture, chiropractic medicine, and herbal medicine. Some people believe exclusively in CAMs, but many use mainstream and CAM medicine concurrently. Some CAMs have scientific proof of success and are closer to mainstream medicine than others. For example, studies show that acupuncture can help mitigate back pain; thus, you may consider the treatment if your accident leaves you with a back injury. However, some insurance companies treat CAMs differently from mainstream medicine. Some insurance companies argue that CAMs are experimental and lack proof of effectiveness. As such, an insurance company might be reluctant to compensate you for CAM treatment, especially those that stray too far from mainstream medicine. One way to get compensation for your CAM expenses is to get your doctor to recommend it. You also have a good chance of compensation if you use both mainstream and CAM and not CAM alone. You need evidence of all treatment costs to prove your damages. Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney can help you gather the necessary evidence and prove your case in court. Contact us for a free initial consultation to determine how to handle your case.

One of the standard rules for all motorcyclists is to ensure safety during every ride. When people talk about motorcycle safety, most riders think it's all about having modern equipment to protect them in the event an accident occurs. However, motorcycle safety starts with the condition of the motorbike. Therefore, before you ride your motorcycle, ensure the bike is in good condition.   This article highlights four things you should check before you ride your motorbike to prevent accidents. 1. Tires Motorcycle tires are essential since they offer a contact surface between your bike and the road. Therefore, check your bike's tire condition before you start your journey. The first thing that every rider should check is the tire pressure with a pressure monitor. Every motorcycle has a recommended tire pressure that you need to maintain. Under-inflated tires reduce your bike's braking ability, which puts you at risk of accidents. Additionally, under-inflated tires affect your bike's fuel consumption. On the other hand, over-inflated bike tires are uncomfortable and may make your tire wear out quickly. To know the recommended tire pressure, check your bike's manual or the sticker on your bike's swingarm. You can also check the step board or under the seat, depending on your motorcycle. Besides pressure, check the tire's treads. Most motorcycle tires have tread wear markers. However, the general rule states that a motorcycle tire tread should be a minimum of 1.5mm deep. Finally, inspect your tires to check if items are lodged in the treads. If you see any strange objects lodged in the treads, remove them quickly since they may puncture your tire and cause a slow leak. These objects may also blow your tire. 2. Electrical System The main component of your bike's electrical system is the battery. To check your battery's condition, open the battery compartment and check whether the terminals are securely attached and free of corrosion. If you notice corrosion, use a cloth and baking soda solution to wipe it away. For wet cell batteries, ensure they have the recommended fluid level. Additionally, check whether the batteries are fully charged using a voltmeter. After you ensure your battery is in good condition, you can check other electrical components, including: Brake lights Signal lights Headlights The starter The engine kill switch The best way to know if these components work properly is to turn the key in the ignition. 3. Side Mirrors Motorbikes have side mirrors that help the rider check the traffic condition on the road. With time, dirt may accumulate on your mirror, which affects your vision. For this reason, you need to clean your motorcycle mirrors with vinegar. You can also use baking soda solution and a piece of cloth. Besides dirt, your mirrors may also become loose or misaligned, especially if you drive on rough terrain. If your mirrors become loose, use a spanner to tighten them. On the other hand, if your mirrors are misaligned, you can adjust them. However, you should first stop your bike before you adjust the mirrors. Adjusting motorcycle mirrors when driving puts you at risk of accidents. The suitable angle for a motorcycle side mirror varies from one rider to another. Therefore, ensure you adjust your mirror to a comfortable angle that offers a good view of the road. 4. Engine oil Motorbikes contain engine oil that helps lubricate the components in the combustion chamber and the crankshaft. Moreover, oil prevents your engine from overheating. However, your engine oil level may reduce due to leakage or consumption. Checking the engine oil level is quite easy. First, place the bike on its center stand and run the engine for about one minute to warm the oil to ensure you get correct readings. Remove the oil cap and put a dipstick inside. The correct motorcycle engine oil level is between the maximum and minimum markers. If the engine level is low, add more. Preventing motorcycle accidents is essential since treating accident injuries is quite expensive. However, you can ask for compensation to cater to the hospital bills if you get involved in a motorcycle accident. If you need an attorney to represent you, contact Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney.