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Motorcycle accidents in Sarasota often occur due to negligent drivers who fail to look out for motorcyclists. Because many drivers do not look in their mirrors or over their shoulders, or fail to signal before changing lanes, motorcycle operators only have a split second to react when a driver moves into their lane. Unfortunately, motorcyclists in these situations often lose control and crash. It is really hard to stay safe when a vehicle suddenly moves into the lane a motorcyclist occupies.
In order to prevent unsafe lane accidents from happening to you, here are some things you can do:
- Be seen. Whenever you can, find an open spot on the road so that you are not traveling next to vehicles. If this is not possible, make sure you are at least out of another driver’s blind spot. You can do this by accelerating to pass a vehicle or braking to let traffic pass.
- Be heard. When purchasing a motorcycle, it is best to select one that is a bright color and is loud. Louder and brighter motorcycles catch other drivers’ attention. You can also retrofit your quiet motorcycle to make it sound louder.
- Be in the safest lane. The right lane is often dangerous for motorcycles, as vehicles are entering and exiting or turning. The farthest left lane with a shoulder is the safest. However, if there is no shoulder, then the middle lane would be the safest. Also, highways with left lane exits can be dangerous.
By riding defensively, you can reduce your chances of being in a motorcycle accident caused by a driver making an unsafe lane change. However, if you have been injured due to a driver’s reckless maneuver, please contact Mallard Perez. To speak with a qualified Sarasota motorcycle attorney, call 888-409-3805 for a free initial consultation.
