Defensive Driving Tips for Motorcyclists

As spring gets underway and motorcyclists start venturing out to enjoy the warmer weather, let’s remember that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Although motorcycles make up only about 3 percent of the vehicles on the road, riders accounted for a staggering 15 percent of all road fatalities in 2023 — a 50-year high. These numbers highlight the importance of safe driving practices to protect motorcyclists. To support that mission, we’ve gathered four key defensive driving tips every motorcyclist should practice.

 

Stay Visible at All Times

Motorcycles are often hard for drivers in cars to see, especially in busy traffic. If you’re on a bike, catch their eye with bright or reflective clothing, and keep your headlights on, even during the day. When riding, position yourself in a lane where you’re most visible to other drivers, avoiding their blind spots whenever possible. Using hand signals alongside turn signals can also help ensure your intentions are clear.

 

Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Tailgating can be exceptionally risky for motorcyclists. A sudden stop by the vehicle ahead could leave you with little time to react. Keep at least a three-second following distance behind other vehicles. This buffer gives you critical time to respond to changes in traffic flow or unexpected obstacles. On wet, slippery roads, increase your distance even further to compensate for reduced traction.

 

Avoid Weaving Through Traffic

Motorcyclists caught in slow or heavy traffic sometimes try to take advantage of their small size by weaving in and out of lanes. Not only is this highly dangerous, but it’s also illegal in most states. In most cases, weaving doesn’t give other drivers enough time to see you if they decide to switch lanes quickly. It’s a recipe for disaster. Just don’t do it.

 

Anticipate the Actions of Others

Assume that drivers in cars and trucks can’t see you or anticipate your movements. Be prepared for sudden lane changes, vehicles pulling out from side streets, or cars turning left in front of you at intersections. By staying alert and scanning the road ahead, you can identify potential hazards and take steps to avoid them.

 

Taking these steps can help keep you safe and reduce your risk on the road, but even the most cautious motorcyclists can be a victim of someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation after intake and initial case review and to learn how we can advocate for your rights.