Some motorcycle riders will talk about how “laying the bike down” may be the only way to avoid a crash or minimize their injuries in a wreck. Exactly what this means from person to person may differ, but it’s generally just a way to tip the bike on the side and let it slide to avoid contact with something ahead — like a truck that just pulled out of a driveway in front of the bike.
But does laying down your bike actually help? Or is that a myth?
It’s usually better to say upright
You have to decide quickly what to do when you’re anticipating a wreck, but motorcycle experts do note that it’s typically better to stay upright and not to lay the bike down. Laying the bike on its side is a common way to crash in motorcycle races, but it’s just not practical on a normal road setting. It only works on the track because the bike and rider can slide to a stop.
On the road, your tires will slow you down a lot faster than the metal and plastic side of your bike. You cut far more speed by staying upright and hitting the brakes. This also means that you retain more control over your bike, so you may be able to turn or swerve to avoid contact with the other vehicle. If you lay the bike down, you and the bike just slide in a straight line.
In short: Laying a bike down may make injuries more likely, not less.
Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident?
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident someone else caused, you may be suffering from catastrophic injuries and facing a lengthy recovery period. We have the experience needed to help you seek fair compensation here at Wyatt Law Firm. Contact us today to learn more.