How to Safely Share the Road with Motorcycles

Motorcycles May Be Fun, But They Can Also Be Dangerous

With the temperatures heating up, there’s a good chance you’ve noticed more motorcycles on the road than usual. Summer is a very popular time of year for motorcyclists and understandably so. Nothing compares to cruising around the city streets and backroads on a bike – it is both rewarding and exhilarating. However, riding a motorcycle also comes with inherent risks.

As more people move to Texas, we only expect our roads to become even more congested than they already are. Because of this, it is very important for cars and motorcycles to learn how to share the road. As car drivers, it is imperative you take extra precaution when motorcycles are sharing the road with you. Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents end tragically.

Car-Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Today, we are going to talk about the steps you can take to protect yourself, your passengers, other drivers, and motorcycles. In a world full of distractions, it is critical that we take the time to brush up on road safety tips. It could mean the difference between life or death – literally.

Before we discuss how you can minimize the risk of a motorcycle accident as a car driver, let’s go over a few statistics:

• It is estimated that more than 50 percent of all motorcycle accidents happen because of negligence on the part of other drivers
• In 2017, nearly 5,000 people were killed in motorcycle accidents
• Most vehicle-related motorcycle accidents involve SUVs, cars, vans, and trucks
• In Texas, 491 motorcyclists died in accidents in 2017 alone
• In 2017, 33 motorcycle passengers lost their lives and nearly 2,000 riders and passengers suffered debilitating injuries

Tips for Minimizing the Risk of Motorcycle Accidents 

The above statistics show just how serious motorcycle accidents can be. To ensure the safety of everyone, please keep the following tips in mind when sharing the road with motorcycles:

• Always check blind spots, mirrors, and signal before turning or changing lanes
• If you are driving a large vehicle, be cautious when making turns or changing lanes
• Always give bikers the whole lane
• Look for motorcycle turn signals and treat them with caution
• Remain at a safe distance when following motorcycles
• When passing a motorcyclist, give them plenty of space
• Always check your blind spots
• Consider the weather and how it may affect a motorcyclist
• Stay in your own lane
• Take extra precaution in intersections and during sunset and sunrise
• Be courteous
• Avoid any distractions that may take your attention away from the road and the motorcyclist
• Keep in mind that motorcycles are able to react more quickly than cars
• Do your best to help motorcyclists stay safe when riding at night by not following them from a close distance, making sure your high-beams are not on, and refraining from passing

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, please contact Green Law today. Our personal injury lawyers will assess your case and advise you on how to proceed. Contact us today for a free consultation.