Ways to Avoid Blind Spot Motorcycle Accidents
If you have been riding motorcycles for some time, you likely already understand the dangers you face from blind spot motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles offer much less protection than a car if an accident happens, and motorcycle injuries can be serious or even deadly when crashes happen.
Unfortunately, because motorcycles are so much smaller than cars and other motor vehicles, it is easy for other drivers to not see you. Motorcycles fit all too easily into a vehicle’s blind spots. One way to avoid blind spot motorcycle accidents is to avoid other drivers’ blind spots when passing on a motorcycle. Below, you will find this and other tips for avoiding blind spots while riding a motorcycle and best practices for motorcycle and motor vehicle drivers.
What Are Motorcycle Blind Spots?
Most experienced drivers of any kind of vehicle know what blind spots are. They are parts of the road or surrounding areas that drivers cannot see when they check their windows or mirrors for traffic hazards. To see what’s in a blind spot, a driver must physically turn around to check these areas.
Since motorcycles are smaller, it is easy for other drivers to miss seeing them. Motor vehicle drivers often forget to check their blind spots. As a result, the driver could inadvertently hit a motorcycle driver.
Blind spot motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries, including:
- Road rash
- Lacerations
- Sprains or strains
- Scarring
- Permanent disfigurement
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Internal bleeding
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
Many motorcycle accident injuries are entirely preventable if drivers are more careful.
6 Ways to Avoid Blind Spot Motorcycle Accidents
Keeping each other safe is everyone’s responsibility. While some car and truck drivers do not respect motorcyclists’ rights, the law states they have the same rights as four-wheeled vehicles. Follow these steps, and you likely will reduce your chances of having an accident.
Stay Out of Motor Vehicle Blind Spots
The easiest way to avoid a blind spot accident is to stay out of the other drivers’ blind spots. If you are driving your motorcycle in front of or behind another driver, you have a much greater chance of being seen. To reduce the likelihood of being in someone’s blind spot, stay in the same lane, even if you have another passing lane open to you.
Drive Defensively
Because motorcycles are so small and the risk of injury is greater, you must be aware of what’s happening around you. Continuously check the areas around you, not just in front or behind you. Try to anticipate what the drivers of other motor vehicles will do.
Wear Light-Colored Clothing
Wearing brightly colored clothing increases the chances of being seen, especially at night. Incorporate reflective material on your jacket, pants, and other clothing.
Always Drive with Your Headlights On
It doesn’t matter if it is a bright and sunny day. Leave your motorcycle’s headlight on. You increase your chances of other drivers seeing you.
Leave Space Between You and Other Drivers
Give yourself at least 20 feet of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. The more distance you have to react, the better your chances of staying safe if that driver breaks suddenly or does something unexpected.
Pass Vehicles Quickly
When passing other vehicles, you will be in their blind spots. Pass other vehicles quickly to get out of their blind spots as quickly as possible.
Motor Vehicle Driver Safety Tips
Motor vehicle drivers have a responsibility for safety extended to every other vehicle on the road, even motorcycles. Follow these steps to stay safe:
Check Your Mirrors
Before you start driving, check your mirrors. Make sure they are adjusted to give you as much visibility as possible when you drive. Remember that your rearview mirror should give you a view of your entire back window. Aim your side mirrors to minimize your blind spots. If you are a new driver, have someone help you so you can avoid blind spot motorcycle accidents.
Pay Attention to Driving
Put your cell phone away and pay attention to the road. Don’t take your eyes off the road to adjust your radio or pick up a snack. It only takes a few moments for a motorcycle to enter your blind spot.
Signal Lane Changes
Let other drivers know your intentions. If someone is in your blind spot, your turn signals will alert them and give them time to get out of your way.
Call Our Office for a Free Motorcycle Accident Case Evaluation
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident involving a negligent motor vehicle driver, you may be eligible for financial compensation. Motorcycle accidents can lead to extensive medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our motorcycle accident lawyer from the law offices of Wolf & Pravato is here to help.
We will help determine whether your case is eligible for a claim. If another driver did not respect your right as a motorcycle driver to travel on the same road, you deserve a chance to seek justice. There is no obligation after your case evaluation, and you will know what your options are. Call our personal injury lawyer in Fort Lauderdale today at (954) 633-8270 for a free case evaluation.
