Everything Michigan Bikers Need to Know About Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

SHARE THE ROAD: MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS AND BIKERS  

Here are some of the recommendations from the materials developed by the NHTSA for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month:

For Drivers

• Those driving automobiles, SUVs and trucks should watch vigilantly for smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and bicycles
• Allow motorcycles the full width of a lane at all times
• Always use a turn signal when changing lanes or merging with traffic
• Some motorcycle turn signals are not self-canceling, so wait to be sure the rider is turning before proceeding
• Check all mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before changing lanes or merging with traffic, especially at intersections
• Allow at least three to four seconds of following distance when driving behind a motorcycle
• Avoid using a cell phone or engaging in other distracting activities such as eating or adjusting a radio or GPS
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Assume motorcyclists in your rear or side view mirrors are closer than they appear and drive accordingly

For Motorcyclists

• Always wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmet even if not required by Michigan law
• Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles and sturdy clothing
• Use appropriate hand and turn signals when turning or changing lanes
• Take a motorcycle safety course, especially if you are a new rider or have not ridden in a long time
• Increase visibility by wearing bright clothing and reflective vests, armbands or tape
• Ride in the middle of the lane to be more visible to drivers
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Because motorcyclists have minimal protection from the road and from other vehicles, motorcycle accidents are often more deadly than automobile or other passenger car accidents. For this reason, safety precautions for bikers are especially important.

BASIC TIPS TO HELP YOU AVOID A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT

Wear a helmet and other protective gear

Wearing a helmet may seem obvious, but many bikers choose not to wear helmets in states where they are optional, such as Michigan. Protective goggles, gloves, close-fitting long pants and jackets made of abrasion-resistant material, such as leather, can provide protection in the event of a crash or spill.

Stay in your own lane

Lane splitting is a dangerous activity. Automobile drivers do not expect to encounter other vehicles in their lane, especially a motorcycle. If a driver quickly changes lanes or drifts to one side, the result could be disastrous for a motorcyclist who is sharing the driver’s lane.

Be aware of potential road hazards

Things like debris, gravel, uneven surfaces and wet pavement are far more dangerous for motorcycles than for automobiles. Slick surfaces can cause a motorcycle to slide and lose control, especially during turns. Try to avoid riding over wet leaves, crosswalk lines and other painted surfaces and oil spills, especially right after it rains, when roads are most slippery. Running into objects such as tire treads, branches or rocks can cause serious injury to motorcyclists and passengers.

Watch out for deer

Motorcycle-deer accidents are common, especially at this time of year when deer are present in many parts of the state. Bikers should reduce speed and keep their hands on or near the brakes when riding on rural roads or wherever deer are likely to be present. For night riding, high beam lights can help visibility.

Never drink and ride

While driving sober should be a given for motorcyclists and automobile drivers alike, many accidents are caused by drivers who drank alcohol before operating a motor vehicle. If you drink, don’t drive. Appoint a designated driver, call a ride service or postpone your trip until you are able to drive safely.

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 biking. 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.

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