Motorcycle accidents can result in grave injuries to victims and for that reason, they should be prevented whenever possible. There are several safety tips that drivers can follow to help avoid motorcycle accidents and help keep motorcycle riders safe on the roadways.
By following several safe-driving practices, drivers can help keep motorcyclists safe on the roadways. Safety tips to follow include:
- Be aware of blind spots: Drivers should be aware of all of their blind spots and double check them for motorcycles. This is especially true when turning across traffic in an intersection, turning left or when backing up.
- Use turn signals: Drivers should always use their turn signals but it can be especially important for motorcycle riders to know what to anticipate around them because they may need more time to adjust to changing roadway conditions. It is helpful for drivers to also keep in mind that motorcycles do not have self-canceling turn signals.
- Do not tailgate motorcycles: Drivers should not follow motorcycles too closely. They are more susceptible to changes in road, weather and traffic conditions so may need extra time and space to adjust.
- Dim headlights: Drivers should ensure they dim their headlights at night for other drivers which can be especially helpful to motorcycle riders which can be easily blinded by high beams from other drivers due to the nature of their vehicle.
Motorcycles can also be more vulnerable to serious injuries due to the nature of their vehicle and the reduced protection it affords. That makes it especially important for drivers to look out for them and help keep them safe and also for motorcyclists to be familiar with how personal injury legal protections may be able to help them when they have been harmed by a negligent driver.