Warmer Weather Brings Increase in Motorcycle Use, Accidents

By Jim Greene

Published on July 04, 2010

Each year, as winter turns to spring and spring turns to summer, the number of motorcycles on the road increases. While there are those who ride motorcycles all year, especially where the weather is mild, it's inevitable that warmer weather will coax more people to ride.

Sadly, as the number of motorcycle riders increases, so does the number of motorcycle accidents. Since motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than car drivers, defensive riding is essential to preventing injury or death.

Police Report Drivers Often Unaware of Motorcycles

Analysis of police reports has shown that many drivers are not aware of motorcycles until it's too late to avoid a collision. Most drivers have never ridden a motorcycle and are not as conscious of them as they are of cars.

Many safety experts advise motorcyclists to overcompensate for lack of driver awareness by assuming that a driver does not see them at all until eye contact is made. Other good defensive tactics include wearing bright colors, looking for a driver's eyes in the rear-view mirror of the car ahead, and changing position within the traffic lane to attract attention with motion.

Intersections Especially Dangerous for Motorcyclists

The most dangerous place for a motorcyclist is an intersection. One of the most common crash scenarios is a driver making a left turn into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist traveling in a straight line. To survive intersections, motorcyclists are well advised to slow down as they approach, try to make eye contact with drivers turning left, and be prepared to stop quickly.

Danger for a motorcyclist can come from behind, as well. Being rear-ended is much more serious on a motorcycle than in a car. When preparing to slow down or come to a stop, a motorcyclist should check in the rear-view mirror to be sure a following driver is aware of the action.

Even if you use all the best defensive driving techniques, you may still be involved in a collision. That's when you need to contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. Whether you're dealing with an insurance company or having your day in court, an experienced attorney will present the facts unique to motorcycle accidents. As a motorcyclist, you may ride alone, but don't make the mistake of going to court alone.

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