Tips for Driving Safely Around Motorcycles
Everyone has an equal right to use the road, whether they are driving a car, truck, or SUV, operating a tractor-trailer truck, or riding a motorcycle. However, out of these groups of drivers, motorcyclists are often at the highest risk of injury, since they do not have the protection or safety features provided by larger vehicles.
When you drive, you should do everything you can to follow good safety practices. This will not only reduce your own risk of injury, but it will help everyone else who shares the road with you stay safe as well. Unfortunately, many drivers have difficulty seeing motorcycles, or they do not pay enough attention to them. By following these tips, you can help keep everyone safe on the road and avoid motorcycle accidents:
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Watch for lane splitting - In California, it is legal for motorcyclists to ride in between lanes of vehicles traveling in the same direction, although the California Highway Patrol recommends that motorcycles should not drive more than 10 miles per hour faster than surrounding vehicles, and they should only drive between lanes when vehicles are moving at 30 miles per hour or slower. Drivers should be aware of any motorcycles that are lane splitting when they change lanes.
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Check blind spots - Drivers may have difficulty seeing motorcycles in certain places around their vehicle, so they should always double check the area around them before changing lanes or making turns.
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Keep a safe distance - It can be difficult at times for drivers to judge a motorcycle’s speed, and they may slow down unexpectedly when they downshift. Drivers should refrain from following too closely behind a motorcycle, which will help avoid collisions.
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Pay attention to motorcycle movements - A motorcycle may move around within a lane as they swerve around potholes or position themselves to avoid air currents or other drivers’ blind spots. Drivers should keep an eye on these movements and watch for hand signals when a motorcycle is changing lanes or making a turn, always making sure to give them plenty of space.
Contact a San Jose, CA Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Accidents happen to even the safest drivers and motorcyclists, and injuries from these accidents can have a major effect on your life. The experienced attorneys at Janoff Law can help you receive the compensation you deserve when you are injured due to someone else’s negligence. Contact our San Jose motorcycle accident attorneys today at 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.msf-usa.org/downloads/Motorist_Awareness_tips.pdf
https://www.drive-safely.net/motorcycle-safety-tips/
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/public-safety/sd-me-pubsafe-notebook-20170606-story.html
