5 Strategies for Sharing the Road With Cars
Motorcycles have so much power and give you a great feeling as you accelerate on the open road. You feel the wind pass all around you, the scenery race by and the horizon approaching at rapid speed. Though you may feel free on your bike, you still need to be aware of the car drivers around you. One wrong move or distraction can lead to serious injury or a worse fate.
- Avoid blind spots.
Car drivers have enough problems locating other cars in their blind spots without having to spot a motorcycle. Prevent unnecessary accidents by staying in the driver’s field of view. Stay directly behind the car or off to the left so that the driver can see you in the rearview and side mirrors at all times.
- Drive defensively.
Driving defensively goes for both new and experienced motorcyclists. A study from the University of South Florida’s transportation research department found that car drivers were at fault 60 percent of the time. Paying close attention to the cars around you will help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
- Wear high-visibility clothing.
Car drivers who hit motorcycles often can’t seem them. Brightly colored clothing will help car drivers see you much better on your motorcycle during the day. You can also wear reflective clothing at night or apply reflective decals to your bike for added visibility.
- Follow simple road rules.
Even though you’re operating a motorcycle, you’re still responsible for following the rules like any other driver on the road. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, and always use your signal when passing or making a left or right turn. You can also signal with your hand as an added precaution. Avoid swerving in and out of traffic and making other aggressive driving maneuvers.
- Take a safety course.
It’s never too late to take a motorcycle safety course. Your course instructor will teach you useful information such as how to recover from a skid and to avoid unsafe driving situations. You’ll also learn practical maintenance tips and other skills that build confidence as a motorcyclist on and off the road. In North Carolina you have several motorcycle safety courses to choose from including:
North Carolina Motorcycle Safety Education Program administered through the North Carolina Community College System
BikeSafe NC sponsored by the Governor’s Highway Safety Program
Harley-Davidson Riding Academy through your local dealer
MotoMark 1 – Professional Level Motorcycle Training Company
Want to know more about motorcycle tips, insurance and your rights? Contact Gary Poole Law Office to get started. By following these tips and staying focused while you ride, you can avoid a potentially devastating accident with cars on the road.
Gary Poole – North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Attorney “On the Side of Those Who Ride”