Remaining visible on the roads is key in avoiding motorcycle crashes. Simple precautions can increase your chances of being seen and decrease the likelihood of being involved in a motorcycle accident.
“But, I just didn’t see him!”
Sadly, we hear these words far too often. Drivers are more distracted than ever before, as they fiddle with their stereos, drink their coffee, or talk on their cell phones. It’s no surprise, then, that many report that they simply did not notice a motorcyclist sharing the road with them. All too often, this ends in disaster. As bikers, we don’t have a cage around us to protect us in the event of a crash. Even with all the appropriate safety gear, accidents can be catastrophic and even deadly. That’s why it is critical to be proactive and be as visible on the road as possible.
How Can I Be More Visible On the Road?
- Wear bright colors! Sure, your black leather is timeless and looks great, but when riding, it won’t help you be seen. Fortunately, bright gear is not as obnoxious as it used to be. In fact, some of the new bright and fluorescent colors are rather eye-catching. And, of course, that’s the point! Wearing a bright jacket or helmet will help drivers make note of you.
- Use reflectors and/or reflective tape. Especially if you ride in the early morning or late night hours, reflectors are absolutely vital. It’s all about visibility, and reflectors create both light and movement as they catch and reflect back light sources. Fortunately, reflectors and reflective tape come in a variety of cool styles. For best results, apply them to each face of the bike, so that even if you are turning, you will catch the light.
- Avoid blind spots. This holds true for cagers as well as bikers. Blind spots can be deadly. Even the most attentive driver can miss you if they cannot see you. Leave ample space between you and the vehicles around you, and when you go to pass, do so quickly and then reassume a safe position.
- Tap your brakes. The flash of the lights will warn drivers that you are braking and to take notice and slow down appropriately. If someone is tailing your and riding too closely, tap them to send a reminder to back off. Try to never slam on your brakes. Instead, tap them a few times and then gradually come to a stop.
- Use your high beam. Not just at night, but all day long. Keeping that headlight on increases your visibility, both during daylight and nighttime hours. Equally important- take time and check out the angle of your headlight. It should be pointed ahead of you, not toward the ground. Adjust it appropriately.
When it comes to safe riding, you must be proactive and assume that the drivers around you will not notice you. Ride with a safe gap between you and others on the road, and exercise caution, especially when turning, braking, and approaching intersections.
For a free legal consultation,
call 1-800-668-6729
Our nationwide motorcycle crash lawyers have represented hundreds of bikers who could have avoided accidents and injuries had drivers only noticed them! Do not take chances on the road. If you are involved in an accident, remember the biker attorneys who put you first and call Kass & Moses.
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