Some residents may view motorcyclists as reckless risk-takers, but in reality, most motorcyclists are responsible and just want to get from Point A to Point B safely. Unfortunately, if a motorcyclist is in a crash, the laws of physics are not on their side. Therefore, it is important for all motorists to practice motorcycle awareness, so they can avoid these types of collisions. The following are some duties motorists have towards the motorcyclists they share the road with.
First, motorists must ensure they are paying attention to their surroundings, so they do not miss motorcycles. Motorcycles have a smaller profile, making them hard to see. Nevertheless, motorcyclists have the same right to share the road as motorists.
Moreover, the way traffic, weather and road conditions affect motorists is different from motorcyclists. For example, a rain puddle may not be a hazard to a motorist, but it could be to a motorcyclist. Therefore, motorists must be on the lookout for when motorcyclists might have to take evasive action.
Many motorcycle accidents occur when the motorist is making a left-hand turn into the motorcyclist’s right of way. Therefore, motorists must be careful at intersections and look in all directions to ensure they will not be turning into the path of a motorcyclist.
Motorists may be inclined to keep an eye out for other cars or large trucks while on the road, but they may forget to keep an eye out for motorcyclists. This can lead a motorist to cause a motorcycle accident. Motorcycles do not offer the structural protection cars do, meaning a motorcyclist can be severely injured in a crash, even if the motorist who caused the crash is not injured. Motorcyclists who find themselves in such situations will want to make sure they understand their options for being compensated for the harms they suffered, as well as hold the responsible party accountable.