Motorcyclists share the road with motorists and are exposed not only to the elements, but distracted and aggressive drivers. The NHTSA reports that motorcycle accidents have been increasing at a rate of 10 percent every year over the last two decades. Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has named May as Motrocycle Safety Awareness month to help citizens of the state raise awareness over the state of motorcycle safety and what we can all do to keep each other safe.
A lot of motorists fail to see motorcyclists because of their car’s blind spot. Due to the smallness of your average bike, the rear or side view mirror may fail to show who’s behind the vehicle, making it easy for the driver to assume they can merge or make a left turn without inconveniencing other drivers. At the same time, motorists aren’t aware of what they should do with regard to keep motorcyclists safe.
Here’s a helpful list for motorists in relation to motorcyclist safety:
- Always indicate when you’re looking to merge or turn left. Do this even when you can’t see anyone to your side or behind you just to keep everyone on the road safe.
- If there’s a motorcyclist in front of you, give them a 4 second gap and don’t follow them too closely. This will give them enough reaction time should there be a potential accident.
- Have your lights on when driving at night or in inclement weather to make sure you’re seen at all times by motorcyclists.
- Never use your phone or other electronic gadgets while driving. It only takes 3 seconds of distraction to travel the length of a football field, making it more likely for you to be involved in an accident with a motorcyclist.
Accidents involving motorcyclists always end up in the biker sustaining extensive injuries in relation to the motorist. This is because they are more exposed and the weight and mass of their vehicle is no match to the hulk of metal that is your average American car.
Legal Help for Motorcycle Accidents
If you’re an injured motorcyclist looking for legal help, you’ve come to the right place. Please call us today on 877-561-3004 for your free legal advice. Thanks, and we look forward to hearing from you.