Whether you are a motorcyclist or a motorist, you should know how to stay safe on the road. Motorcyclists should always drive defensively, and keep a sharp eye out for motorists who may not be paying attention. Motorists should always look out for motorcyclists who may be hiding in their blind spot or pulling out between vehicles. In either case, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous and often comes with inherent risks. When riding a motorcycle, you don’t have the protective barrier between you and road if an accident should occur. Motorcycles are not equipped with the same safety devices that motor vehicles have.
One question still circulates throughout the motor vehicle community. Are cars or motorcycles generally at fault for causing these catastrophic collisions? A study conducted by University of South Florida’s Center for Urban Transportation Research discovered that in 60 percent of cases, motor vehicles, such as cars and trucks, are at fault. Most of these accidents involve motor vehicles that fail to yield to motorcycles’ right of way or pull out directly in front of motorcycles who are going straight. They also include vehicles making a left turn.
Depth perception can be an issue when determining the distance and speed of oncoming motorcycles. A motorcycle’s small profile often makes it difficult to tell how fast they are going. Furthermore, distracted drivers who are not paying attention to the road are not as likely to see smaller motorcycles. This is especially true at night.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.