Motorists should keep a sharp eye out for motorcyclists when driving. While their smaller size make these two- and three-wheeled vehicles economical to operate, it also makes it difficult to judge their speed and distance, putting them at an increased risk of being hit.
Watch for motorcyclists
- Eighty percent of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death for the motorcyclist.
- Intersections are the No. 1 spot for crashes with motorcyclists. Always look twice before proceeding.
- Left turns are a "danger zone." Look for approaching motorcyclists when turning.
- Look twice when changing lanes. Double check your blind spots and signal before changing lanes.
- Be extra careful at all times. A motorcycle is less visible due to its smaller size and single headlight.
Don't follow a motorcyclist too closely
- Keep at least 3 to 4 seconds of time between you and a motorcyclist.
- A motorcycle stops quicker than a car or truck. Tailgating a motorcyclist is dangerous and illegal.
- Traffic, weather and road conditions may force motorcyclists to react quickly.
- Road debris that doesn't affect you can topple a motorcycle. Gravel, oil, trash and other hazards can pose a special danger to motorcyclists.
Share the road
- Treat motorcyclists with the same respect and courtesy you afford to other motorists.
- Motorcyclists have the same rights as any other driver on the road and are legally entitled to a full lane.
- When a motorcycle is in motion, don't think of it as a motorcycle, think of it as a person.
If you should ever be driving and encounter an oncoming vehicle in your lane, take these steps:
- If there is time, tap the horn to warn the other driver.
- Brake hard, but do not lock the wheels if your vehicle does not have antilock brakes.
- Look for an escape route on the right edge of the road.
- Try not to go to the left since the other driver may see you and return to his or her proper lane.
- Try an emergency stop in your lane only if there is enough room and you cannot pull off the road.
- If you cannot stop before hitting another vehicle, try to steer around it. Do not turn more than needed to avoid a crash.
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