Traffic Tip Tuesday 03-29-2016
It’s warming up, and motorcycles are out. Motorcyclists are entitled to the same rights as any other driver on the roadways. Unfortunately motorcycles are typically much smaller than a car or truck, making them much harder to see. In an effort to minimize motorcycle related crashes, use the following tips:
Keep an eye out. Motorcycles easily blend in with other vehicular traffic, and are often unnoticed. Train yourself to look for motorcycles.
Check your blind spots. Motorcycles can easily hide in the blind spots that many vehicles have. Check often.
It’s harder to judge a motorcycle’s distance or speed. Again, due to a motorcycle’s size, it may look further away than it is. Assume the motorcycle is closer than it is.
Give them room. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to weather conditions and sometimes have to adjust their riding style to accommodate. Road hazards also play a role in a motorcyclist’s path of travel. Hazards that may be inconsequential to a four wheeled motorist could be disastrous to a motorcycle if not avoided. Oily roadways and asphalt related road failures are prime examples.
By having some understanding of our two wheeled traffic, traffic accidents can be reduced, making our roadways safer. Remember to share the road.
