In recent years, the number of motorcyclists involved in a fatal crash exceeded 200 in our state. While bikers have a responsibility to drive smart, drivers of vehicles must also take extra precautions on the road to avoid causing a motorcycle accident. Consider the following driving safety tips:

Give the Motorcyclist Extra Space

Whether you are approaching a motorcyclist on the road or at a stoplight, give them extra space. If he is stopped and you hit him from behind, this fender bender could be fatal. Be extra mindful while you approach stop signs and stop lights, and make sure you slow down in time to avoid a motorcycle accident.

Avoid Changing Lanes Until the Motorcyclist Passes

If you see a motorcycle approaching from behind, avoid changing lanes until the motorcyclist passes (if possible). It is difficult to judge how fast a motorcycle is traveling, and a wrong calculation can have severe consequences. To be safe, stay in your lane until the motorcycle passes.

Communicate With Motorcyclists

As often as possible, communicate with the motorcyclists around you. If you see cars stopped ahead of you, let the motorcyclist know by putting on your brakes earlier than usual (instead of slamming on your brakes at the last second). If you need to change lanes, enable your turn signal and keep it on at least 10 seconds before you change lanes.

How Clark & Smith Can Help

Vehicle drivers and motorcyclists have a responsibility to each other to keep the road safe! Implement these driving tips, and you will contribute to a safer driving environment.

Oftentimes, motorcycle accidents occur, and it is not the fault of the vehicle driver. If a motorcyclist drives under the influence or drives aggressively, your safety is at risk. If you are involved in an accident with a motorcycle, allow the Clark & Smith attorneys to guide you through this time. Contact us immediately.