Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable groups of road users. The smaller size and lack of surrounding protection offered by traditional cars make motorcycle riders more susceptible to serious injuries in a wreck. As a conscientious driver, you play a vital role in protecting yourself, your vehicle’s occupants, and other road users around your car. By understanding the unique challenges faced by motorcycles and altering your driving style accordingly, you can significantly reduce the risk to everyone on the road. If a collision does occur, a knowledgeable Houston motorcycle accident lawyer may be able to assist with your case.
How Do Motorcycles Differ From Cars?
For starters, motorcycles do not handle the same as a cars. The smaller size and agility of a motorcycle allows for quicker maneuvering, but this also means they can be harder to see in traffic. Stay aware of your vehicle’s blind spots and check them frequently before merging or changing lanes. Keep in mind that motorcycles also have different stopping distances than cars. Leave sufficient following distance for motorcyclists so they can safely slow down or stop in front of you without being hit from behind. Finally, it’s important to note that road conditions that are minor to a car can be very dangerous to a biker. Potholes, uneven pavement, and slick roads can cause a biker to fall or slide, resulting in serious injuries.
Sharing the Road Responsibly
When you’re behind a motorcycle, be sure to increase your following distance, even in ideal driving conditions. Giving yourself a larger buffer zone provides more reaction time in case you need to brake or change lanes quickly to avoid a crash. Double-check your blind spots before changing lanes or merging, since it’s easy for a motorcycle to get lost next to or behind your vehicle. A quick glance isn’t enough – make sure you can see clearly around your vehicle before proceeding.
To ensure that other drivers know what your intentions are, use your turn signals well in advance of a lane change. Try to avoid distractions while driving. Stay off your phone, avoid fiddling with the radio, and remain focused on what’s happening around you on the road. Motorcyclists may sometimes engage in lane splitting or ride to the side of a lane instead of in the middle. They may do so to improve their visibility, avoid uneven pavement, or navigate slow-moving traffic. Be prepared for these adjustments and do not attempt to predict a biker’s movements.
Intersections and Turns
Intersections are particularly high-risk areas for bikers. You should always approach intersections with heightened awareness, ensuring you check all directions of travel for approaching motorcycles before driving through. When a motorcycle has the legal right-of-way, yield to it. Be particularly mindful when making left turns. You should not cut across oncoming traffic lanes and must make sure your path is clear before turning.
Some regions of the U.S. allow motorcyclists to practice something called “lane splitting.” Lane splitting allows motorcycles to drive in between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. If you are driving in an area that allows lane splitting, be extra cautious and do not make sudden lane changes.
Responding to Various Scenarios While Driving
Planning ahead for common scenarios that you could encounter keeps you and bikers safe on the road. When driving in heavy traffic, allow ample space for motorcycles and try to avoid abrupt lane changes that will force them to brake aggressively. Stay calm if a motorcyclist makes a sudden manuever and do not brake or swerve in response. Instead, maintain a steady speed and allow them to move out of your path. Report any egregious or dangerous driving behavior by a motorcyclist to the authorities. Doing so reduces the risk of a crash and protects everyone on the road.
If you are involved in or witness a motorcycle collision, pull over to a safe location, turn on your car’s hazard lights, and call 911 for assistance. Offer assistance to the motorcyclist if you have the training to do so and the scene is safe, but do not put yourself at risk of traffic or environmental hazards.
Protecting Motorcyclists as a Responsible Driver
By remaining aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye out for motorcyclists, you can contribute to a safer driving experience for everyone on the road. When all drivers stay alert, considerate, and aware of the unique challenges faced by motorcycles, they can work together to reduce the risk of preventable collisions. We hope this article helps you and your loved ones protect vulnerable road users the next time you hit the streets.
