Sharing the Road with Motorcyclists

When the sun is shining, more motorcyclists take to the roadways. But if you’re driving a car or a larger vehicle, motorcycles can sometimes escape notice. Cars and SUVs have large cages and sturdy frames to protect the driver and passengers. Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable, so there’s no such thing as being too careful near motorcyclists.

Judge distance carefully
If you see a motorcyclist in your mirror, be aware that they may be closer than they appear to be. Modern mirrors even spell this out in frosted print. We see the print so often, we often forget it’s there. But with motorcyclists, the safest play may be to wait until they pass or until they fade into the distance behind you. Be especially careful when switching lanes. 

Watch your blind spot
Most motorcycles aren’t small, but they can be much easier to miss than SUVs and trucks that are so common these days. The blind spot on a car is diagonally behind the rear pillars. SUVs or trucks with a cap can have larger blind spots, making it imperative to check before switching lanes. It’s always safest to turn your head slightly (and briefly) before changing lanes so anything in your blind spot becomes visible in your peripheral vision. Be quick about it though. Cars tend to go where we look while driving, so if you’re looking to the left, your car may veer into the next lane.

Maintain a safe following distance
Motorcycles can stop quickly, sometimes surprising other motorists. They can also slow without a brake-light warning through engine braking and gear selection. It’s best to maintain a safe following distance with all vehicles. But it makes sense to leave an extra buffer if you’re following a motorcycle. 
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Also, give motorcycles some breathing room if you pull up behind one at an intersection. Most motorcycles shift manually, so motorcycles (and other manual transmission vehicles) can roll back slightly when starting on a hill. Give your fellow motorists a little space. You’ll still get where you’re going at the same time, but with an extra measure of safety.