Spring break is approaching and that means families and college students will be hitting the road. Before you leave for your vacation, it’s important to review the traffic regulations in the areas that you’ll be driving through so that you can more safely share the road with other vehicles. Automobile drivers need to be particularly mindful of motorcyclists when they travel.
The consequences of a collision between a car and a motorcycle can be catastrophic. This is partially because cars are typically larger and more enclosed than motorcycles. Also, most cars are equipped with airbags, which can help protect their occupants in the event of an accident. Motorcycles, on the other hand, are open-air vehicles and, therefore, do not have air bags.
A motorcycle is no match for a four-wheeled automobile, even if a rider is wearing a helmet and obeying all traffic laws. The harsh reality is that the risk of death in a motorcycle vs. car accident is 29 times higher for a motorcyclist than for a car driver.
Sharing the road safely
Motorcycle riders and car drivers can coexist peacefully on the road, especially if drivers take a few precautions. If you’re driving, keep the following in mind:
- Prior to changing lanes, always check your blind spots. Motorcycles’ two-wheeled, sleek shape makes them more difficult to notice than other vehicles.
- When driving at night, use caution. Don’t speed in the dark and always use your headlights.
- When you can, stay in your lane. It is permitted for motorcycles to have their own lane.
- Give the motorcycle enough warning before changing lanes so that it can keep a safe distance behind you.
- When approaching a junction, proceed with utmost caution. Never accelerate to go around a red light. The outcomes can be fatal.
Regardless of your level of caution, motorcycle vs. car accidents can still occur. If that does happen, consider seeking legal guidance to help you navigate the aftermath.