5 Top Safety Tips for Drivers and Motorcycle Riders

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Millions of Americans enjoy riding their motorcycles on our roads and highways. It’s another way to get around and explore our diverse nation.

But most of the time, motorcyclists aren’t sharing the road with fellow bikers—they’re sharing it with passenger cars, pick-up trucks, and large commercial vehicles. When involved in accidents, bikers are often left with serious and sometimes fatal injuries.

The number of motorcyclists killed and injured in Illinois has been going up in recent years. In 2020, the Illinois Depart of Transportation documented that number of motorcyclists killed increased by 10.1% from 2019. What’s more, there was a 14.6% increase in motorcyclists injured in 2020.

5 Safety Tips for Drivers and Bikers: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re a driver or a rider, following these tips from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation can help you stay safe on the road:

5 Tips for Drivers

1. Take your time and watch for motorcycles. Be sure to check your blind spots before changing lanes, and listen for motorcycles near you.
2. Assume motorcyclists are closer than they look. Use extra precautions at night or during a storm.
3. Keep a safe distance between you and a motorcyclist. Give them ample room to move on the road.
4. Don’t assume a motorcyclist is changing lanes if you see them moving. Motorcyclists often shift in their lane as they drive. Sometimes, drivers mistake their movement for a lane change. Be careful when merging next to a motorcyclist. Let them pass ahead of you before moving.
5. Don’t follow a motorcycle too close. Many drivers have a habit of riding too close to the vehicle in front of them. This bad habit is especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Leave a car’s distance between your vehicle and them at all times.

5 Tips for Motorcycle Riders

1. Be visible. Wear bright-colored clothing and protective gear, especially if you’re driving at night.
2. Always gear up for every ride. Some states (like Illinois) don’t require you to wear a helmet while riding your bike, but it’s highly recommended. Well-fitted helmets save biker lives.
3. When in doubt, drive offensively. Err on the side of caution and assume that most drivers don’t see you. Be prepared to brake or change lanes if needed. Of course, there’s only so much you can do, but it’s best to anticipate other drivers’ movements when possible.
4. Inspect your bike before every ride. Make sure everything’s in working order before hitting the road. Don’t skip this step if you’re traveling cross-country.
5. Pay attention to your surroundings. Be aware of any changes in the road, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Questions About an Accident? Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here for You

At Shannon Law Group, our attorneys have helped motorcyclists and their families after catastrophic crashes by fighting for them in court and holding the responsible parties accountable. We can help you if you’re in a similar situation. Give us a call at (312) 578-9501 to speak with one of our team members today.