Driver Etiquettes When Sharing the Road With Motorcyclists
The number of motorcyclists (including tricycles) we can see on the road is fast growing. And just like bicyclists, they can be very unpredictable and vulnerable, too! Moreover, since they are narrower in built, they are harder to see, especially if they position themselves in your new or pre-owned car’s blind spots. Still, they also share the same rights and responsibilities on the road as you and other vehicle owners do. To safely share the road with motorcyclists, you need to follow the etiquettes below:
- Always check your mirrors and blind spots when changing lanes, merging with traffic, and nearing the intersections. Signal your intentions to allow motorcyclists to anticipate and go into a safer lane position.
- Be alert, especially when making a left turn. The smaller size and narrower girth of a motorcycle will make it harder for you to judge its speed and distance from your vehicle.
- Check for any approaching motorcycles that will turn left if you are about to cross an intersection. Wait for clear signs of the motorcyclists’ intention to make a left turn.
- Watch out for signals. A turned-on signal light of a motorcycle may be hard to see, but observing the driver may help you anticipate his next move. Examples of signs or hints motorcyclists make include head checks from the driver and motorcycle leaning to the left or right (which they do to indicate plans to change lanes or make a turn).
- Be extra careful at nighttime when motorcyclists are harder to see. Their single headlight and single tail light can blend into the surrounding lighting. This makes it harder for you to judge their actual distance.
- Allow motorcyclists full use of a lane. Although motorcycles are smaller, they need enough room to safely maneuver and make adjustments in order to handle hazards like potholes, gravel, slippery areas, etc.
- Recognize the fact that motorcyclists often use the left lane even if they don’t intend to make a left turn. They do so to make themselves visible.
- Provide ample distance for motorcycles to allow them to maneuver or properly respond to hazards.
- Provide ample space and distance when passing or overtaking motorcycles.
Final Thoughts
Whether you own a new car or a secondhand car, fact of the matter is, you’re not the only one who has the right to use the road. So better make sure you maintain the etiquettes listed above whenever there are motorcyclists in sight.
