Increase Your Visibility on A Motorcycle Ride
Nov. 21, 2019
Texas winters are mild compared to the frigid conditions of the north, making it possible for motorcyclists to enjoy riding almost all year round. But no matter the time of year, an enjoyable ride can quickly turn sour in the event of an accident.
Because of the size of motorcycles, drivers are less likely to see you on the road. So, you’re often at a high risk of getting into an accident with another vehicle. While you can’t control how attentive other drivers are, there are measures you can take to increase your visibility on the road.
Wear Brightly Colored Safety Gear
Safety gear is obviously important when riding your bike. But what’s equally as important is how colorful that safety gear is. Wearing a brightly colored jacket, helmet or other accessory can make it easier for other drivers to see you.
Colors like neon orange or yellow are especially effective because they signify caution. Wearing gear made with reflective materials is also beneficial and can increase your visibility to other drivers.
Know a Driver’s Blind Spots
It’s all too easy for a motorcycle to end up in another vehicle’s blind spot. The most dangerous place for a motorcycle to be is along the side of another vehicle. However, this position is often inevitable when passing other vehicles.
Lingering in a car’s blind spot can lead to serious accidents. When passing another vehicle, give yourself as much buffer space as possible and execute the maneuver as quickly and cautiously as you can. And remember, if you can’t see a driver’s mirrors, chances are they can’t see you.
Utilize Your Horn and Lights
Your horn and motorcycle lights can help you grab the attention of other drivers on the road. Especially in heavy traffic, a couple short blasts of your horn can notify people of your presence.
Additionally, using your high beam or brake lights can allow you to communicate your intentions with other drivers so that they can accommodate their driving. Especially in foggy or rainy weather conditions, a quick flash of your lights can make you more visible to the people around you.
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating. Doing everything you can to increase your visibility on the road can decrease your risk of sustaining serious, life-changing injuries.