As much as we wish we could control the behavior of others, the truth is that there will always be irresponsible drivers on the road. Knowing this, there are still plenty of things that motorcyclists can do proactively to help protect themselves and reduce the risk of getting into a motorcycle accident with another vehicle. One of the simplest things motorcyclists can do is increase their visibility.
It is not uncommon for drivers to claim that they “never even saw” the motorcyclist in the moments before a collision. Part of the reason for this may be because they simply weren’t paying attention to their surroundings. Still, it is also a fact that motorcycles are much smaller than vehicles and can accelerate very quickly, which can, and does, make them more prone to accidents.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at The Stewart Law Group have years of experience representing individuals involved in traffic accidents, and we’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences that can occur when riders are not visible. Should the unthinkable happen, knowing that you took all reasonable precautions can also be important when discussing the circumstances of an accident with your attorney.
Ways For Motorcyclists to Improve Visibility on Texas Roads
Motorcycles are smaller and less conspicuous than cars and trucks on the road. In the blink of an eye, a driver who may be preoccupied with their phone or navigating heavy traffic can simply fail to see a motorcycle. A lack of visual recognition is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. By actively working to increase your visibility, you can significantly reduce the risk of being overlooked by other motorists.
Here are some things you can do to make yourself more visible to other drivers:
- Wear brightly-colored gear. Consider a bright helmet or other high-visibility safety gear like jackets and gloves.
- Ride a brightly-colored motorcycle. The dark color of most motorcycles doesn’t do the rider any favors when it comes to visibility. If you’re in the market for a bike, consider choosing one in a high-visibility color.
- Add reflective tape. If your bike isn’t a high-visibility color, you can still make it easier to see by adding reflective materials. Reflective tape can be added to the edges of panniers, around wheel rims, or anywhere else on the bike you want to draw attention to.
- Add auxiliary lights. Adding extra light sources to your bike can make a big difference whether you ride during the day or at night – in fact, they can help other drivers more accurately determine a motorcyclist’s position and speed.
- Avoid riding in blind spots. It may seem obvious, but always avoid riding in areas where a driver won’t be able to immediately see you. Never assume that a driver is always going to do the right thing and turn their head to check if you are there before they change lanes.
The Role of Awareness and Road Conditions
Visibility isn’t just about what you do; it’s also about being aware of your surroundings and adapting to different road conditions.
- Daytime Challenges: Even in broad daylight, glare from the sun can make it difficult for drivers to see you. Be mindful of the sun’s position and adjust your riding and positioning accordingly.
- Nighttime Risks: Night riding inherently reduces visibility for everyone. Slow down, increase your following distance, and rely heavily on your lights and reflective gear.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and dust can significantly impair visibility. Reduce your speed, use appropriate lighting, and increase your following distance in adverse weather. Consider postponing your ride if conditions are particularly hazardous.
- Traffic Congestion: In heavy traffic, motorcycles can easily get lost in the sea of vehicles. Be extra vigilant, use your lights and lane positioning effectively, and avoid weaving aggressively.
Being aware of and adapting to different road and weather conditions is a sign of a responsible rider. If an accident occurs due to factors like poor visibility, your awareness and cautious riding can be important details to share with your accident attorney at The Stewart Law Firm.
Contact Us Today
Motorcyclists who are injured in collisions with negligent drivers may be owed compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. If you or someone you know has been hurt, you owe it to yourself to consult an Austin motorcycle accident lawyer at The Stewart Law Firm to learn more about your rights. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through the entire process and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf. Fill out our online consultation form to get started or call the firm at (512) 326-3200.
