If there’s a dream trip through California, whether you’re a motorcyclist or not, it’s U.S. Highway 101, the last remaining and longest U.S. route still active in the state. It’s also one of the first U.S. routes ever created back in 1926. There is probably no other highway in the nation that encompasses so much natural beauty, history, and social/cultural personality as this 808.1 mile stretch of road.
Just as is the case with any travelers, it’s important that motorcyclists practice safe riding habits on the road, especially when there is so much to see along the way; not only for you but also for others who might be admiring the scenery more than other drivers. In fact, not only are the stretches of open highway and the beauty that surrounds them a diversion; there have been many single-vehicle accidents along this highway due to distractions.
In addition to inattentiveness and mechanical failures, many stretches of road like U.S. Route 101 have their share of drivers that fall into the issue of “highway hypnosis,” also known as “white line fever.” This condition results when the serene setting lulls drivers into two states of consciousness, one entirely different from the safe driving practices that he needs to use. This makes the driver’s vehicle a free-wheeling bomb just looking for something to destroy.
It is for all of these reasons that motorcyclists need to practice not only safe riding habits for themselves, but also be extra vigilant for others. One should never assume that any driver, whether they are approaching from the opposite direction or driving alongside you, is fully focused on what they are doing. When the time comes for you to make a diversionary move to protect yourself, do it. It should go without saying that you must be wearing the appropriate protective gear while riding anywhere at any time. As the old saying goes, the life you save may be your own.
It’s also important that you know the name of a personal injury attorney who handles Vallejo motorcycle accidents with you so that when you are on the road, often far from home, you have someone who can advocate for you if you are ever involved in an accident, whatever the cause and whoever is at fault.
