The first reported automotive related accident in U.S. history was recorded in 1896, when a car and a bicycle collided. Since then, everything has exponentially increased. There are millions of registered vehicles on the road. Cycling, including motorcycles have increased in popularity, and the overall population has increased. There are more people on roads in many different modes of transportation, so share the road!
Accidents on the road have unfortunately accompanied these increasing trends. In 2015, there were 4,693 motorcycle deaths and an estimated 700 cyclist deaths on the roads. While not all, many of these fatal accidents were at the fault of the automobile driver. Regardless of what your preferred mode of transportation is, your safety on the road begins with you. For automobile drivers, here are some simple things you can do to ensure your safety, and the safety of those around you:
- Check your blind spots! Motorcycles are obviously smaller than other vehicles on the road, and can easily blend into your blind spots–so be cautious! Especially when passing and changing lanes, remember to check your blind spots thoroughly before you do so.
- Use your signals. While this is an action you should always practice, this is important especially around motorcycles. When passing a motorcycle, the gust of wind that your vehicle creates can cause the motorcycle to become unstable and potentially knock the rider off the road. So, especially when passing motorcycles, use your turn signals! Let those around you know your intentions so they can anticipate your vehicle’s motion.
- Be extra cautious at night. Help the riders on the road stay safe at night by increasing your following distance. Be sensitive with your brights.
- Share the road! Your vehicle is not the only one on the road, so be courteous to all of those around you. Whether you’re a fan of motorcycles or not, there is a person riding on them, so drive safely and defensively around them.
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