On today’s crowded roads, the relationship between four-wheel drivers and two-wheel motorists is a nuanced one, complete with tension often based on misunderstanding. Whether you are a four-wheel motorist or a motorcyclist, you should always remember that the road belongs to everyone. Unfortunately, interacting with other motorists on the road is often not an easy process and these interactions require deeper appreciation than many motorists first realize. The following motorcycle safety guide is focused on providing recommendations for both two- and four-wheeled motorists in the hopes of increasing safety and respect among drivers and preventing motorcycle accidents.
Preventing Motorcycle Accidents: Avoiding the Dangers of Distracted Driving
Each time a driver uses their cell phone, they place their own life in jeopardy along with the lives of anyone else in proximity on the road, which includes motorcyclists. With an ever-growing number of accidents associated with distracted driving, all motorists should approach the issue of distracted driving carefully. Distraction, especially that associated with cell phones, is occurring at epidemic rates comparable to drunk driving.
Distracted driving involves more than cell phones, though. Some other types of distracted driving include changing ratio stations, putting on makeup, eating, drinking, or engaging in in-depth conversations while driving. Anything that diverts a driver’s attention from the road constitutes distracted driving. While motorists are distracted, motorcyclists can quickly enter a driver’s path and end up causing deadly accidents. This danger increases in situations involving traffic, adverse weather conditions, or any time when quick reaction times are vital.
Technology has undoubtedly had a positive impact on our lives, but remember that even momentary lapses in attention can have deadly and life-changing consequences. While a single call or text might not appear harmful, it has the potential to end up changing a motorist’s life. Victims of distracted driving accidents can end up facing physical, emotional, or financial challenges that can last for years and sometimes even a lifetime.
In recognition of the growing role of technology in our lives, more vehicles now come equipped with hands-free features as well as options to read text messages aloud. This way motorists can focus on driving. These new features, however, can sometimes also prove distracting.
Utilizing GPS, selecting a playlist, or planning calls before driving can help reduce the urge to reach for a mobile device while driving. You should also consider utilizing apps that disable phone functions when driving or send automated responses to inform others that you are operating a vehicle. Emphasizing safety above everything else is the best way to make sure that you and other motorists remain safe while on the road.
Be Kind on the Road
Many people go out of their way to utilize kindness and courtesy daily. While driving, however, these behaviors can introduce an aspect of danger to safe vehicle operation. At first, it might seem surprising that kindness while operating a motor vehicle can be harmful. However, excessive politeness often results in miscommunication among drivers and unexpected accidents. For example, a motorist suddenly stopping to let a motorcyclist pass might be viewed as a kind gesture. If this action is not anticipated by other motorists, though, it can quickly result in rear-end collisions.
Motorists also sometimes yield their right-of-way to be kind to other motorists, which can result in motorcyclists entering potentially harmful situations because they are exposed to other drivers who might not be aware that the motorcyclist intends to cross traffic.
These situations emphasize why motorists must make sure to follow established traffic norms and practices. Finding a balance between being courteous and adhering to traffic rules is vital. While spontaneous acts of kindness are almost always worthwhile, for motorists, this type of unpredictable driving pattern can cause accidents. Instead, motorists should strive to follow traffic rules to prevent accidents and maintain smooth traffic flow.
Remember to Stay Alert on the Road for Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
During a time when multitasking is a common occurrence among drivers and many motorists are facing sensory overload, focusing on a driver’s present situation is more important than ever. Countless distractions occur while operating a vehicle. However, when operating a vehicle, utilizing an awareness mindset is especially vital. As a result of their small vehicles, motorcyclists routinely spot other drivers’ blind spots or sometimes even travel unnoticed in a driver’s peripheral vision. Limited visibility like this often results in tragic accidents.
Fortunately, small things like utilizing dashboard stickers can greatly increase motorists’ awareness while operating a vehicle. Motorists should also remember that motorcyclists do not have nearly as much protection to guard them from harm in case accidents occur. This means that while a four-wheel vehicle driver might end up in a “fender bender,” the same accidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities if a motorcyclist is involved. Maintaining a perspective that remains watchful for other motorists on the road is the best way to ensure that all motorists safely reach their destination.
Playing Games to Improve Concentration
While technology can be found in most aspects of daily life, playing simple games to improve awareness while on the road can be helpful. Participating in games that encourage attention to detail can be a helpful way to encourage safety while on the road. For example, you might decide to play “spot the motorcycle” which can be helpful in preventing motorcycle accidents as well as encourage younger motorists in the vehicle to remain observant while on the road. Not only are these games fun and a good way to pass the time, but they also help foster a foundation for more attentive driving.
Speak With an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
All motorists are responsible for doing their best to make sure that everyone else on the road stays safe, including preventing motorcycle accidents. While motorcyclists must ride responsibly, other motorists must also remain educated and informed about the unique complications involving motorcyclists. As the number of vehicles on the road increases, utilizing safe driving techniques is more important than ever. If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle crash, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney. Contact the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP today to schedule a free case evaluation.
