While cars and motorcycles are both vehicles, drivers have to operate them totally differently. For bikers, it’s best to handle your bike as if other drivers don’t see you. For cars, it’s important to be aware of motorcycles and the small spaces they can slip into. In both cases, drivers must remember that they are sharing roads with other vehicles.
Sharing Roads: Safe Space for All Drivers
Create Safe Space
One important tip for sharing roads between cars and motorcycles is to leave distance. Because motorcycles are smaller and take up less space, it’s tempting to ride closer to them. However, they are also fragile in that things like rocks and wind can affect them. So, it’s important to keep distance between motorcycles and other vehicles.
In many cases, the standard safety rule is to leave at least two car distances between you and the vehicle up ahead. However, try to allow more than the typical following distance and at least a clear lane to the side.
Pay Attention to Turn Signals
Another important element of sharing roads is to pay close attention to turn signals. First, make sure you are using your own. Whether on a motorcycle or driving a car, it’s important to let others around you know your next move. Next, it’s also critical that motorcyclists don’t go around a turning vehicle.
Some riders see a turn signal up ahead and think it’s okay to slip around the car, instead of waiting for them to complete the turn. However, that leads riders to drive straight into a blind spot because they can’t see the traffic up ahead. Lastly, it’s always a good practice for riders to give an extra hand signal before turning. That way you can make yourself more noticeable to the other driver you’re sharing roads with.
Watch for Blind Spots
In any case, blind spots for drivers are a major safety issue. However, because motorcycles are smaller, they can easily hide in your blind spot. So, it’s important for riders to be sure not to ride along a car’s blind spot. In addition, try to avoid weaving into tight spaces in a lot of traffic. Just because your bike can fit in that space, doesn’t mean it’s safe.
For other drivers, it’s crucial to check your blind spots by looking over your shoulder. In most cases, your mirrors won’t do the trick for exposing motorcycles. So, being aware of blind spots, how to avoid riding in them, and how to check are all crucial to safely sharing roads.