Each time summer comes around in Florida, motorists must get used to sharing the roadways with motorcyclists. Unfortunately, not all drivers make a point of looking out for bikers. Motorcyclists, and even moped drivers, have equal rights to those of motor vehicle drivers. However, bikers and motorists have to comply with the same rules.
Tips for automobile drivers
Safe sharing of Florida roadways could limit preventable car vs. motorcycle accidents. That might be achievable if motorists keep the following in mind:
- Bikers are entitled to the entire lane width, and drivers should not attempt to share the lanes with them.
- Drivers may not always be able to judge the speed and distance of oncoming motorcycles.
- Keep a lookout for motorcyclists before changing lanes or entering intersections.
- Motorcycles can stop quicker than cars, and drivers should maintain safe following distances.
- A buffer zone of four seconds is crucial between cars and motorcycles.
- Icy and wet roads, rain and gusty winds are exceptionally challenging for bikers when cars are too close to them.
- The gust of wind caused by a vehicle passing too close could cause a biker to lose control.
- Bikers often slow down without using their brakes, activating no brake lights to warn motorists.
Although negligent bikers cause some of the many crashes on Florida roads, a significant percentage of car vs. motorcycle accidents result from motorists disregarding the presence of bikers. Injured victims of such accidents could pursue financial relief by filing personal injury claims in a civil court. However, for such a suit to be successful, the plaintiff must establish negligence on the defendant’s part.