Every summer, Tennessee’s scenic roads and top tourist spots fill with vacationers, but for motorcyclists, that means more traffic, distractions, and risk.

While tourism boosts the local economy, it also increases the chances of dangerous situations on the road, especially near hot spots like Lookout Mountain and downtown Chattanooga.

At Gary Massey Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’ve seen how quickly a scenic ride can turn into a serious accident. Here’s how to reduce your risk and ride safer during Tennessee’s peak tourism season.

Expect the Unexpected on Scenic Routes

Popular tourist destinations like Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, and the Tennessee Riverwalk attract drivers who may be unfamiliar with the roads, rely heavily on GPS, or are distracted by the view.

These areas often have frequent stops, sudden turns, and heavy foot traffic, making them especially dangerous for motorcyclists.

When riding near scenic destinations:

  • Slow down on curves and blind turns.
  • Give extra space to sightseeing vehicles that may stop unexpectedly.
  • Watch for pedestrians and cyclists in shared-use areas.

Even a slight misjudgment from another driver can lead to a serious crash for a motorcyclist.

Ride Defensively Around Tourist Traffic

Peak tourism season brings more than just crowds; it brings out-of-state drivers who may be distracted, lost, or unfamiliar with Tennessee roads.

To stay safe:

  • Assume You’re Invisible: Ride with the mindset that drivers don’t see you. This keeps you alert and proactive.
  • Avoid Blind Spots: This is especially important when riding near large SUVs and RVs, which often have limited visibility.
  • Give Extra Space: If you think you’re at a safe following distance, double it in tourist-heavy areas.
  • Use Your Horn Wisely: A quick tap can warn a distracted driver before they merge into your lane.

Remember: You’re difficult for drivers to see and even more difficult for them to hear, especially in traffic-heavy zones.

Wear Gear That Gets Noticed

High-visibility gear isn’t just for construction workers; it’s one of the easiest ways to get noticed on a motorcycle. Tourists may be looking at the scenery, not the road, so it’s up to you to stand out.

  • Wear bright or reflective jackets, vests, and helmets.
  • Use auxiliary lights or reflective decals on your bike.
  • Keep your headlight on even during the day to boost visibility.

The more visible you are, the more likely a distracted driver will see and avoid you.

Contact our law office for a free case review if you’ve already been injured in a crash caused by a distracted tourist driver.

Skip the Risky Moves

Tourist season isn’t the time to flex your skills or take chances on narrow roads. Aggressive maneuvers like weaving through traffic, hard braking, or passing on the shoulder are much riskier when other drivers are distracted or unsure of where they’re going.

Instead:

  • Stick to your lane and signal early.
  • Avoid speeding or tailgating.
  • Plan your route so you don’t get stuck reacting to unpredictable traffic.

Even if you’re a skilled rider, most drivers around you may not be.

Watch the Weather and the Road Surface

Summer storms in Tennessee can roll in fast, leaving slick roads, gravel washes, and low visibility behind. Combine that with heavy tourist traffic, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

  • Slow down in wet or shaded areas, where roads stay slick longer.
  • Avoid painted lines, manhole covers, and metal bridges when wet; they’re all slippery hazards.
  • Stay alert for road debris, especially near construction zones or in forested areas where tourists may have pulled off the road.

If You’re in a Crash, Know Your Rights

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen, especially when other drivers are distracted or negligent. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s carelessness, don’t try to handle the aftermath alone.

At Gary Massey Injury Lawyers, P.C., our Chattanooga motorcycle accident lawyers understand riders’ unique challenges on Tennessee roads. We help you get the compensation you need to recover for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Ride Like No One Sees You

Tourist season brings more people and more risk to Tennessee’s roads. Stay visible, ride defensively, and give others plenty of space. If the worst happens, Gary Massey Injury Lawyers, P.C. can help.

Contact our legal team today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.