There’s nothing quite like the freedom and fun of riding a motorcycle. But the main reason you feel so free, the fact that there is essentially nothing between you and the road, is also the reason motorcycles can be so dangerous.

According to reports from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, 4,612 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes, which is an increase of 2 percent in 2010. Another 81,000 motorcyclists were injured in 2011.

If you or a loved one should you get into any trouble on the road on your motorcycle, you should contact Houston’s motorcycle accident attorneys at Kirkendall Dwyer LLP, lawyers who have the expertise to address issues surrounding motorcycle accidents.

There is also some good news, too, because though the numbers are daunting, there are safe ways to ride your motorcycle.

• Don’t speed
• Don’t drink and ride your bike
• Keep your eyes on the road. Don’t let your eyes or your mind wander because distractions cause accidents
• Wear a good helmet. Be sure the helmet completely covers your head. Statistics show that helmets save lives
• Check your T-CLOCS (tires, controls, lights, oil, chassis and stand) for problems before you get on the road
•  Practice emergency braking and steering
• Thoroughly check the intersection before you enter it
• Wear closed-toed shoes, long-sleeved shirts and gloves to protect your hands. If you get into a motorcycle accident, you don’t want a lot of skin exposed
• Consider brightening your bike up with colorful, reflective decals to make yourself more visible.

Putting these tips into place will decrease your odds of having an accident. Still sometimes, despite their best efforts, people are involved in motorcycle accidents that are not their fault. If that is the case, be sure to seek the counsel of a motorcycle accident attorney immediately.