Driving safely around motorcycles
Summer is officially here, which means motorcycle rallies all over the Sunshine State. It is important for car and truck drivers to be especially careful driving with more bikes on the road. Because the fatality rate is naturally higher for motorcycle accidents than car accidents, it is especially important for all types of motorists to be on the lookout and to follow standard safety procedures this summer.
First, understand how motorcycles are different than cars. Compared to a bike, your car will accelerate and maneuver slowly. Even so, a bike’s speed and maneuverability make it much more vulnerable to losing control. Car and truck drivers should use their turn signals and always check blind spots for motorcycles, as your ability (or lack thereof) to quickly adjust plus a bike’s instability can lead to disaster.
Second, always leave room. If there is a motorcycle in front of you, stay farther away from him than you normally would a car or truck. A bike can come to a much quicker stop than you can, which can leave you plowing into it if you are following too closely.
Finally, understand the relationship between a biker and his hog. A motorcyclist will know his bike’s limitations and will generally not do something that could inherently damage it. Trust that if you respect them and take the necessary precautions, they will do the same for you.
The worst thing you can do with motorcyclists on the road is drive distracted. Doing so can cause serious injury to bikers. If you were the victim of a motorcycle accident due to a distracted or inattentive driver in Florida, it is advisable that you contact an attorney who may be able to guide you through the process of claiming damages.