What car drivers need to know about motorcycles

Many motorcycle riders in Utah become frustrated on the road because it does not seem as though car drivers are looking out for them. Unfortunately, in many cases they are right. Car drivers often only look out for other large motor vehicles like trucks and buses, forgetting that they also have to share the road with smaller vehicles like motorcycles and bicyclists. The result is that motorcycle riders are needlessly injured and killed every year in Utah in avoidable traffic crashes.

In an effort to educate car drivers about the importance of keeping an eye out for motorcycles, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) publishes quick tips and other advice for car drivers to follow. If you are a motorcycle rider, share this information with your car driving friends; if you are a car driver, see if you learn anything new about motorcycles.

Did you know…

1. Over 50 percent of all motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle, and of these accidents usually the other vehicle is at fault. Car drivers tend to unintentionally ignore motorcycles on the road, which can lead to disastrous results and serious damage.
2. Motorcycles are small and easily hidden in your car’s blind spots or camouflaged by background scenery (like bushes, fences, and bridges). Try to always be aware of what is going on around you and make frequent use of your windows and mirrors to spot motorcycle riders.
3. When a motorcycle slows down, they don’t always show brake lights. This is because motorcycles can be slowed down by downshifting or rolling off the throttle, so if you are driving behind a biker you may not realize they are slowing down. Maintain a little extra following distance so you aren’t surprised by a motorcycle’s actions.
4. It is usually difficult for car drivers to judge a motorcycle’s speed or distance; this is because of a motorcycle’s small size. Always assume that a motorcycle is closer than it looks, just to be safe.
5. Motorcycle turn signals are not self-canceling, so sometimes they get left on by accident. Don’t assume that just because you see a turn signal the motorcycle rider is going to turn; give the rider the benefit of the doubt.
6. Motorcycle riders need the whole lane to ride in. Sometimes they need to move within their lane to be seen more easily or to minimize the effects of wind, passing vehicles, or to avoid road debris. Don’t crowd their lane and definitely don’t try to share their lane.
7. Motorcycles have a similar stopping distance to cars. Give them the same amount of space as you would another full-sized vehicle.

Do you need help after a serious motorcycle accident?

If the worst has happened and you are the victim of a serious motorcycle accident, consider hiring an experienced attorney to fight for your rights. The skilled lawyers at the Christensen Law Firm have offices in Draper, Bountiful and can work with you to ensure you receive the compensation you need to recover.