Motorcycle accidents and fatalities are on the rise according to facts released by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. In 2006, there were close to 8,000 accidents involving motorcycles and of those, 521 were fatal. In 2007, motorcycle injuries jumped up to nearly 9,000, with 550 of them being fatal. Motor vehicles are involved in nearly half of all accidents involving motorcycles. The helpful tips below can not only help you to track motorcyclists on the road with you, but can also help you to practice being a safe driver.
Use your mirrors
Frequently glance at your rear view and side mirrors to determine distance and location of motorcyclists in relation to your vehicle. When changing lanes or making a turn, first verify that your blind spots are clear before proceeding. Be aware at all times where the motorcyclist is at on the road, since conditions like the sun’s glare or a blind spot may hinder your ability to see them. Many car accidents involving motorcycles happen because the driver did not see the motorcyclist.
Actively listen
Keep your radio station or music to a reasonable volume so that you can be aware of issues on the road, such as horns blaring, screeching tires, or revving motorcycle engines. Most motorcycles are noticeably loud because of their exhaust systems. You can use this to your advantage to audibly keep track of a motorcycle’s whereabouts as the rider drives near or around your vehicle.
Keep your eyes on the road
Distracted driving includes talking or texting on a cell phone, applying makeup and even eating while driving. These things may seem like no big deal, but in reality, taking your eyes off the road even for a few seconds can be extremely dangerous. In those few seconds that you may not be paying attention to the road, chances are you may have missed the vehicle in front of you suddenly braking or the approaching motorcycle that may be closer to you than you realize. By keeping your eyes on the road at all times, you can effectively monitor an approaching motorcycle and anticipate its actions.
Above all, remember that a motorcycle is just like any other vehicle on the road and should be treated as such. Giving the right of way, yielding, and being considerate of motorcyclists should be done just as you would any other vehicle. Practicing safe driving, keeping track of motorcyclists and anticipating their actions on the road can help to prevent motorcycle accident fatalities.
If you have been involved in an accident involving a motorcyclists and would like to speak to an attorney, call 1-800-535-2529 or contact Bryan Caulfield today.