Why Are Motorcycles So Hard to See?
Motorcycles are fun to ride but they come with dangers. Motorcycles are prone to accidents due to many factors—one of the main ones is the size of the motorcycle. Motorcycles are much smaller than passenger vehicles and trucks, and as a result, they are harder to see. Why are they so hard to see?
It’s based on science. In fact, more than 65% of motorcycle accidents happen because another vehicle violates the motorcycle’s right of way. Human vision has limitations. Unlike birds, humans cannot detect small objects moving at high speeds. This means that no matter how attentive and vigilant a driver may be, you may not be able to see a motorcycle in the distance. If the motorcycle is going fast, the driver may not even see it until it’s too late and an accident happens.
In short, motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles. They can hide easily, so drivers have a hard time judging speeds. They may think the motorcycle is going a lot slower than it really is.
The sun and glare can also make it hard for a driver to see a motorcycle approaching. In some cases, drivers just aren’t paying attention. Distracted driving is an extremely common issue and when a person is not paying attention while driving, they can cause serious accidents.
Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle is turning left and a motorcycle is going straight. Intersections are also dangerous for motorcycles.
How Can Motorcyclists Make Themselves Easier to See?
Even the safest motorcyclists can get killed, so what can they do to prevent these accidents? These tips can help.
- Wear bright colors. Don’t be afraid to stand out in traffic. It could save your life. Wear bright, reflective clothing, but don’t forget your helmet, gloves, and jacket. These all can keep you safe if an accident does occur.
- Be aware of your surroundings. While you should strive to make other motorists see you, you also need to be aware of what’s around you. Even if you’ve driven the same route hundreds of times, don’t be lulled into a false sense of security. Be aware of traffic and always be looking ahead and planning escape routes.
- Slow down. Speed is also a factor in motorcycle accidents. Slow down and you’ll be more easily seen. If you do intend to go a little fast, keep your fingers on the brake just in case.
- Stay in the right spot. The safest place for a motorcycle rider to be is in the lane furthest to the left near the dotted line. There, you face the lowest risk of being in a driver’s blind spot. Plus, this position will allow you to see hazards better and quickly react to them.
Seek Help for Your Case
Motorcycle accidents can happen in many ways. However, one of the biggest reasons is that these bikes are small and so hard for other motorists to see.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, seek legal help from the Dade City & Zephyrhills motorcycle accident attorneys at Madonna Law Group. We’ll assess your case and determine liability. Call (800) 557-0411 or fill out the online form for a consultation.
Resource:
blog.nationwide.com/motorcycle-riding-tips/#:~:text=Human%20vision%20is%20limited%2C%20in,of%20the%20car%20driver’s%20vision.
https://www.manderlawgroup.com/1-killed-in-multi-vehicle-crash-in-panama-city/