Drivers don’t often realize how vulnerable motorcyclists are, and they forget to be mindful of them. Motorcyclists ride much smaller vehicles, with nothing to protect them from other vehicles save their helmets. But they have the same rights and privileges as other motorists: they should be able to get on the road without fearing for their lives.
All motorists have the responsibility to keep each other safe on the road, including motorcyclists. If you drive a car, van, SUV, or truck, here are some steps you can take to help reduce the number of fatal motorcycle accidents.
Give Them Space
Motorcyclists may take up less space on the road, but they still need enough room to maneuver their way around safely. Give them their space and avoid sharing lanes with them, even if you think it can accommodate both of you. If a motorcyclist is weaving their way through traffic and momentarily comes close to you, slow down and let them pass.
Check Your Blind Spots
Blind spots are the most common culprits behind motorcycle-related accidents. Because motorcycles are smaller, they’re harder to see in your side mirrors as you change lanes. That’s why you should always check your blind spots. To do so, look at your side and rearview mirrors and then glance over your shoulder to check the rear passenger window.
Allow for More Following Distance
If you’re following a motorcycle, leave more space in front of you than you usually would with a car. Motorcycles can stop much more quickly than larger vehicles, and you might not have enough time to react if they suddenly hit the brakes.
In addition, not all motorcycles have self-canceling turning signals. It can be hard to know if the motorcycle in front of you is about to turn or if they just forgot to turn off their blinker. But with enough following distance, you have the time to respond to any sudden movements.
Allow Them to React
Small obstructions on the road can be nothing to larger vehicles, but they can be very dangerous to motorcyclists. Cyclists have no choice but to swerve when they encounter potholes, roadkill, bumps, and oil spills, and you have to let them react to these obstacles. It’s best to give them as much space as possible in case they need to avoid something on the road.
Be Extra Careful at Intersections
Things can get extra dangerous for motorcyclists at intersections. With big vehicles coming from different directions, it can be easy to fail to see motorcyclists altogether. You can help keep them safe by following safety protocols: stop completely, observe traffic signals and signs, look both ways for oncoming traffic, and drive slowly.
Pass Them Slowly
When you zoom past a motorcyclist, you produce a gust of wind that could destabilize them and cause them to lose control. That’s why it’s essential to pass them slowly and always use your turn signal before changing or merging lanes. That way, motorcyclists can anticipate your movements and assume a safer position in their lane.
The Bottom Line
A fender bender for a car can be a fatal collision for a motorcyclist. Help prevent motorcycle-related accidents by paying attention to motorists and giving them the space and respect they deserve. For more information, contact Friedman Law Offices at +1 800-876-1093.