Motorcycles can be an exhilarating way to get from place to place! They offer unobstructed views and a visceral sense of freedom as you roar down the road. Motorcycles can also pose a challenge for other drivers. The inherent risks of motorcycle riding have been exacerbated by the number of inexperienced riders. Car drivers also have a well-known lack of knowledge about how to safely share the road with their two-wheeled counterparts. Read on for some important tips on motorcycle safety.
- Watch your blind spots and the blind spots of other vehicles. This is potentially the number-one cause of accidents involving cars and motorcycles. The small size of motorcycles can make them more difficult to see. Take your time while merging into another lane, and ensure you have given each mirror a thorough search. Never drive adjacent to another vehicle in their blind spot.
- Keep different reaction times in mind. Motorcycles have far less mass than other vehicles. This allows them to stop and turn much more quickly than cars or trucks. If you are following a motorcycle, give them plenty of space.
- Use care when passing. The blast of wind from your acceleration as you pass a motorcycle can knock the vehicle off-balance. Use your signals to indicate your intention to go around, then allow ample space before you get back into your lane.
- Use your signals when turning. Again, your turn signal is a motorcycle’s friend. Use your signal when you intend to turn. This allows the rider to react to your intention and lowers the chance of an accident.
- Adverse conditions are worse for motorcycles. Wind, rain, and bad visibility affect motorcycles much worse than they do cars and trucks. If you see a motorcyclist unfortunate enough to be out in messy weather, give them space and awareness.
- Night driving presents special challenges. High beams and darkness are not a motorcyclist’s best buddies. For safety, give motorcycles out at night plenty of space. If you see one in the oncoming lane, ensure your high beams are not on.
- Stay in your own lane. A motorcycle’s narrow profile might tempt you to drive alongside them in a lane. This is both dangerous and illegal.
- Intersections are dangerous places. This goes double for blind intersections. Come to a complete stop at all intersections where it is indicated you should do so. Obey all posted traffic signs or signals, look both ways for safety, then proceed slowly and carefully.
- Left turns deserve two looks. Accidents involving a car turning left and a motorcycle are often quite severe. Before you execute that left turn, give it a second look to ensure no motorcyclists are on their way through the intersection.
- A signal may not mean a turn for motorcycles. Turn signals that shut themselves off did not become standard until the 1970s. Many motorcycles might not have them. If you notice a motorcycle whose signal has been on for a while, give them space so you can react if they do suddenly turn.
- Visibility is key. All drivers, but especially motorcyclists, should be as visible as possible. Before heading out, check that all lights are operational, especially headlights. Motorcyclists should also wear reflective clothing. If we can provide you with one of our free Steven A. Bagen & Associates reflective t-shirts, please contact us!
In a Motorcycle Accident? Call Steven A. Bagen & Associates Today!
If you were in an accident involving a motorcycle, Steven A. Bagen & Associates has the knowledge you need to seek compensation. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you receive what you are entitled to.
