A Crash Prevention Guide for Motorcyclists and Automobile Drivers

Do you know the majority of motorcycle accidents involve at least one passenger vehicle? And, because motorcyclists have minimal protection from the impact of a crash, they usually suffer more serious and fatal injuries than those riding in cars and trucks. In fact, motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to be killed in a crash than occupants of passenger cars, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Association (NHTSA). In honor of Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, here are some simple steps bikers and motorists can take to make Michigan roads safer throughout the year.   

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Safety Guidelines for Motorcyclists

• Wear a helmet and other protective gear. Even though helmets are optional for riders over 21 in Michigan, they are proven to save lives and prevent serious head injuries. Make sure your helmet fits properly and meets the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. In addition, goggles, gloves and abrasion-resistant clothing can provide protection in the event of an accident.
• Watch for potentially dangerous road hazards. Potholes, wet pavement, uneven surfaces, fallen branches, debris and other obstacles can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.
• Be on the lookout for deer, especially in areas where deer crossing signs are posted. Deer are more active during dawn and dusk and they move quickly. They also travel in groups, so if you see one deer on the road, slow down since it’s likely that more will follow.
• Make yourself visible to car and truck drivers as well as other motorcyclists. Use reflective decals on your bike and helmet and wear reflective armbands or vests over your clothing, especially at night. Check headlamps and brake lights to ensure they are in good working order and avoid riding in other drivers’ blind spots.
• Ride defensively and avoid unnecessary risks. Be extra cautious at intersections and watch for oncoming cars when making a left turn. Ride according to your experience and skill level.
• Check your bike before each ride, even a short trip. Check tires, lights, turn signals, brakes and fluid levels.

Recommended Reading: The Motorcycle Accident Statistics Every Michigan Biker Should Know

Safety Guidelines for Car and Truck Drivers

• When driving behind a motorcycle, allow additional space and stopping time. Many motorcyclists are seriously and fatally injured after being rear-ended by a car, especially a large heavy vehicle such as an SUV.
• When passing a motorcycle, use your turn signal and exercise caution. Increasing speed when passing can create a sudden burst of wind that may cause a motorcycle to lose stability and crash.
• Check your blind spots. Accidents often occur when drivers fail to see a motorcycle while changing lanes or merging. Make sure rear- and side-view mirrors are properly adjusted.
• Be especially careful at intersections, which are common sites of accidents. Obey traffic lights and signs, use turn signals and make sure there are no approaching vehicles when making a left turn.
• Dim high beams when approaching a motorcycle.
• Don’t be a distracted driver. Avoid using a hand-held cell phone, programming a GPS or engaging in other distracting activities such as eating or grooming.

Road Safety Guidelines for Everyone Driving a Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Moped

• Never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including certain prescription medications. Let someone else drive, use a ride service or postpone your trip until you feel safe behind the wheel.
• Make allowances for hazardous weather or road conditions. Reduce speed and increase stopping distance when roads are slippery or visibility is diminished due to rain or snow.
• Obey the rules of the road. Traffic signs and signals apply to everyone and every type of vehicle.
• Don’t speed. Driving too fast is a major cause of accidents because it decreases reaction time and makes it easier to lose control of your vehicle.
• Stay in your own lane. Cars and trucks should never share a lane with a motorcycle, regardless of the size of the motorcycle or the width of the lane. If you need to change lanes, use your turn signal and check for blind spots.
• Expect the unexpected. Most accidents are caused by unforeseen circumstances, including unpredictable drivers, weather and other hazards. Stay alert and remember to keep your hands, eyes and mind on the road ahead.

Put Our Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers to Work for You Today  

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, we can help. Because many of our lawyers ride, we understand the pleasures and pitfalls of riding a motorcycle.. We know what it takes to win your case, and we will put our collective legal expertise and extensive resources to work for you. Once we start your case, we won’t stop until we win the compensation you and your family deserve.

Motorcycle accident law is complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident lawyer is simple.

Don’t let the legal clock run out. Start your case today by filling out the brief form below or call 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation remote consultation from the comfort and safety of your home.

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