A motorcyclist is 27x more likely than a car occupant to die in an accident. All drivers can benefit from these tips for sharing the road with motorcycles.
Federal, state, and municipal highway safety organizations, and law enforcement have proclaimed May to be “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month” to raise public awareness of this issue. Drivers are urged to give motorcycle riders extra caution this month and every month. With the help of Travelers Insurance, here are some reminders to consider the next time you’re behind the wheel and sharing the road with motorcycles.
AVOID LANE SHARING
All other vehicles on the road, including motorcycles, have the same rights and privileges. Give motorcycles the entire lane. Avoid attempting to share the lane.
WATCH YOUR LEFT
In around half of all motorcycle crashes, another vehicle is involved. When automobiles collide with motorcyclists at intersections, over 40% occur when cars are turning left in front of the motorcycles
SPEED AND DISTANCE CONTRAST
It could be challenging to notice motorcycles. It might be challenging to determine the speed and distance of an approaching motorcycle due to the significantly smaller profile of motorcycles compared to cars.
CLEARLY SIGNAL
Before swerving into another lane or entering a traffic merge, signal your intentions. This makes it possible for riders to predict how the traffic will move and choose a safe lane position.
CHECK YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Riders on motorcycles might easily be overlooked in a car’s blind spot. Before entering or leaving a lane of traffic, as well as at intersections, always check your mirrors and blind areas.
BE CERTAIN
Don’t let a motorcycle’s flashing turn signals deceive you. Motorcycle signals are not typically self-canceling, and riders occasionally forget to turn them off. Before you move forward, make sure the motorcycle rider is going to turn.
ROAD CONDITIONS
Keep in mind, traffic hazards that may seem insignificant to you may be a serious risk to motorcyclists. Due to road and traffic circumstances like potholes, gravel, wet or slick surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement, motorcycle riders may abruptly shift their speed or position within a lane.
KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Maintain a wider following distance around motorcycles to provide the rider extra room to maneuver or stop in an emergency. Motorcycles can stop more rapidly than cars in dry circumstances.
By following these tips for sharing the road with motorcycles, you can make the road a safer place for car drivers and motorcyclists alike. For details on motorcycle insurance coverage, speak with The Feltner Group or your local independent agent today!