Did you know that motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in vehicle crashes than car passengers? According to government data, over 5,000 motorcyclists lose their lives in motor vehicle accidents every year. With such sobering statistics, it’s clear that car drivers play a crucial role in sharing the road safely with motorcyclists.
Personal injury expert Ryan McKeen, known for achieving a record-breaking $100 million jury verdict through Connecticut Trial Firm, offers practical advice for drivers to help reduce motorcycle fatalities. Here’s how you can make the roads safer for everyone.
1. Always Check Your Blind Spots
Motorcycles, due to their smaller size, can easily blend into your surroundings. When changing lanes or merging, be extra vigilant about checking your blind spots, especially if you know motorcycles are nearby.
2. Use Your Mirrors Often
Frequent glances at your rearview and side mirrors can make you more aware of traffic patterns. This habit ensures that you won’t accidentally miss a motorcycle approaching from behind or traveling alongside you.
3. Pass Motorcycles With Extra Caution
Passing a motorcycle requires care. The speed of your car can create strong wind gusts that might destabilize a rider. Always signal before passing, give the motorcyclist plenty of space, and return to the lane only after you’ve left a safe distance.
4. Give Motorcycles Room to React
Motorcycles are nimble and often react quickly to changing road conditions. To avoid rear-ending or crowding them, maintain extra space between your vehicle and theirs. This also allows them to focus on the road without feeling pressured.
5. Be Mindful of Weather and Road Conditions
Rain, strong winds, or uneven roads pose significant risks to motorcyclists. These factors can cause bikes to skid, slide, or lose balance. If you notice challenging conditions, be extra cautious and give riders more room.
6. Signal Early and Watch for Turning Motorcycles
When a motorcycle is behind you, signal your intentions early to give the rider time to adjust. Likewise, keep an eye out for motorcycles that may have forgotten to cancel their turn signals. Give them extra space if their signal light is on, as they might still be deciding on a maneuver.
7. Double-Check Before Left Turns and at Intersections
Intersections are hotspots for accidents, especially T-bone collisions. Before making a left turn or crossing lanes, carefully check for motorcycles. They can sometimes be harder to spot, and their speed may be deceiving. Always follow proper intersection protocols—stop fully and ensure no vehicles are approaching.
8. Eliminate Distractions and Lower Your Music Volume
Distracted driving puts everyone at risk, especially motorcyclists. Keeping your focus on the road and lowering your music allows you to hear motorcycles approaching, even if they aren’t immediately visible.
9. Stay Alert at Night
Motorcycles are harder to see after dark due to their smaller size and limited lighting. Avoid using your high beams when approaching a motorcycle, as this can impair the rider’s visibility. Maintain extra distance to allow for safe reactions.
10. Understand Motorcycle Behavior
Motorcyclists often ride differently than cars. For example, they may lane split (where legal) or position themselves in a lane for better visibility. Learning to anticipate these behaviors can make sharing the road smoother and safer.
What to Do If There’s an Accident
Despite everyone’s best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a collision with a motorcyclist, contact a seasoned attorney to help you understand your rights and navigate any legal complexities.
Driving safely isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about protecting everyone on the road, including motorcyclists. By staying vigilant and practicing these tips, you can play a part in reducing tragic accidents and fostering a culture of safer driving.