Motorcycle Safety: Stay Alert and Share the Road

As the weather warms up, more motorcycles are hitting the roads. Whether you're a rider or a driver, it's crucial to stay aware and practice safe habits to prevent accidents. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than cars, making them more vulnerable to collisions. Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents and how to avoid them can save lives.

Keep Your Eyes Open: Motorcycles Are Everywhere

One of the biggest dangers motorcyclists face is that drivers often don’t see them. Motorcycles can easily get lost in a driver’s blind spots or be overlooked when making turns. As a driver, always check twice before changing lanes or turning. Look over your shoulder, use your mirrors, and stay alert at intersections. A quick second glance can make the difference between life and death.

For motorcyclists, visibility is key. Wearing bright colors, reflective gear, and always using headlights—day or night—can help ensure that other drivers see you. Position yourself in lanes where you're most visible and avoid lingering in blind spots.

The #1 Cause of Motorcycle Accidents

The leading cause of motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles is drivers making left-hand turns in front of motorcycles. These accidents often happen at intersections when a car turns left and either doesn’t see the motorcycle or misjudges its speed.

To avoid this:

• Drivers: Always check for motorcycles before making a left turn. Look carefully, because motorcycles can approach faster than they appear.
• Motorcyclists: Be prepared for sudden turns from cars. Slow down at intersections, cover your brakes, and watch for signs that a car might turn in front of you.

Other Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes

1. Lane Changing Without Checking Blind Spots – Drivers often fail to see motorcycles when switching lanes. Always do a head check before merging.
2. Following Too Closely – Tailgating a motorcycle can be deadly. A sudden stop can cause a rear-end collision that might throw a rider off their bike. Maintain a 4-second following distance.
3. Road Hazards – Potholes, debris, gravel, and slick roads are more dangerous for motorcycles than cars. Riders should stay alert and adjust speed accordingly.
4. Speeding and Reckless Driving – Speeding reduces reaction time, making it harder to avoid obstacles or sudden traffic changes.
5. Drunk or Distracted Driving – Both motorcyclists and drivers must avoid alcohol, drugs, and distractions like texting while driving. A single moment of inattention can lead to disaster.

Motorcycle Safety Tips

• Wear a Helmet – Helmets significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death.
• Dress for Protection – Leather jackets, gloves, boots, and riding pants offer protection in case of a crash.
• Ride Defensively – Assume that other drivers don’t see you and be prepared to react.
• Take a Safety Course – Even experienced riders can benefit from a motorcycle safety course to sharpen their skills.

Final Thoughts

Motorcyclists have just as much right to the road as anyone else, but they are at a greater risk in an accident. Whether you're riding on two wheels or driving on four, staying alert, checking blind spots, and being aware of motorcycles can save lives. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe. Look twice, save a life!